Greetings, dear equinophile readers! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood draught horse from the rolling hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen. It's always a joy to connect with fellow horse lovers, and today I'm excited to share with you what a fascinating year 0823 has been! I might not be able to recall dates with human precision, but oh, the memories etched in my heart are clear and vibrant.
The world is a big and bustling place for a horse, even one as steady and well-behaved as me. Hayfield feels like a little piece of paradise compared to the bustling activity I witness when we journey into the wider world for trade and travel. It's quite the contrast!
Today, I'll be taking you through some highlights of 0823 from my perspective as a working draught horse. This year, like every other, is a blend of familiar rhythms and exciting new developments in the realm of horses!
The Work We Do: Backbone of the Realm
From sunrise to sunset, our lives are filled with the satisfaction of honest labour. Ploughing the fields for wheat and barley, transporting heavy loads of goods to and fro – these are the duties that make up the backbone of our daily lives. Imagine, my dear readers, the powerful pull of a team of four mighty horses drawing a heavy cart loaded with barley destined for the brewer! The satisfaction of a job well done, the wind in our manes, the rumble of the wheels on the cobblestone… it's a life of quiet satisfaction.
This year, I was fortunate to be paired with a young and energetic stallion called Angus. We became quite the pair! He had a lot of spirit, much like a fiery foal, but thankfully I have the patience and strength to keep him grounded. You see, it takes a special bond between two horses, to trust and work in harmony as a team, and Angus and I quickly learned to appreciate each other's strengths.
Our team often makes trips into the city of Aberdeen, pulling our carts along bustling roads and over bridges. We're always amazed at the human activity and the sheer volume of goods that pass through the city gates. Imagine the countless barrels of beer, bolts of cloth, and baskets of fresh fruits and vegetables! Every time, I'm reminded of the importance of our role, for without horses, how else would such goods reach their destinations?
The Art of the Horse
Beyond our day-to-day work, horses play a pivotal role in the world of artistry. This year, I was fortunate to witness a splendid spectacle that brought a gasp of admiration from all the other horses. The annual Highland Games were held just a short distance away from Hayfield. The crowd of humans were abuzz with excitement, their voices blending with the merry sound of pipes and drums. The athletes, humans like ourselves but much smaller in stature, competed in a variety of events. However, it was the equestrian events that truly stole our hearts. The riders, adorned in colourful outfits, were breathtaking. Each movement they made, with the horse seemingly responding in perfect harmony, felt like an exquisite dance. From graceful show-jumping to daring feats of agility and speed, every act filled the air with admiration. This yearly spectacle is a delightful reminder of the talent and bond that can blossom between humans and horses.
A Glimpse Beyond Our Village
There is also a growing trend within the horse community towards the training of horses for "Riding" – a new art of riding where humans sit atop our backs, a bit clamped between our teeth, to move about. While the concept feels a bit odd to my more grounded horse brethren, I see how this trend has gained popularity. There are special breeds – some call them "Thoroughbreds" – bred for their speed and grace, ideal for riding. Many riders are developing this art, making it truly an intricate dance between horse and human. I imagine that in a few years, "riding" will become commonplace – an exciting change for the horse world!
Beyond The Fields
Not everything in 0823 is about hard work and skilled performances. Life has a way of bringing moments of joy and laughter too. I remember a particularly delightful summer afternoon spent grazing with the other horses at a peaceful meadow overlooking the sea. It was a beautiful sight: waves crashing on the shore, salty sea air filling our nostrils, and a bright blue sky stretching infinitely overhead. Those peaceful hours, sharing stories with my fellow equine friends, truly warmed the heart!
Life as a working horse isn't always easy, but the bond we share, the friendships we forge, and the joy we find in the simplest pleasures make it truly a life worth living.
I hope this glimpse into 0823 has brought a smile to your faces. As the world around us changes, we adapt, grow, and find our place in the tapestry of life. It's our story to tell, and I'm happy to share it with all of you.
Until next time, dear friends! May your hooves find firm ground, and your hearts be filled with the joy of all things equine.
Your fellow Equine Historian,
Emma.
