Neigh Neigh, fellow Equines! Emma here, a spirited grey draught mare from Hayfield, nestled near the bustling town of Aberdeen in Scotland. I’ve just turned twenty summers old – the equivalent of being in my mid-thirties in human years, which is the perfect age for a wise mare like me. Today, I’m going to share some snippets from my life in 838 AD, offering a glimpse into what life was like for a working horse during these interesting times.
A Typical Day: Work and Play
Let’s be honest, a horse’s life in the year 838 isn't all sunshine and rolling hills. We work hard to earn our keep, pulling plows through the fields, hauling heavy carts, and carrying burdens on our strong backs. Our days begin before sunrise, when the first faint blush of dawn paints the eastern sky. My human companion, the burly farmer named Angus, feeds us a hearty mixture of oats, barley, and hay, and I can't resist a nibble on the tasty bits that fall from my nosebag.
As the sun rises, Angus harnesses me and my sturdy companion, a strong chestnut gelding named Duncan, to the large wooden cart. We then head out to the fields, where the fresh earth is eagerly waiting to receive our seeds. The familiar, rhythmic rhythm of our hooves on the soft earth, the occasional cry of a bird, and the sweet scent of the freshly tilled soil are a calming presence in my daily routine.
But my days aren’t all about hard work. Every now and then, I get a well-deserved break, often with a leisurely stroll through the nearby meadows. The tender green grass tickles my sensitive lips as I munch on the rich blades, while a warm breeze ruffles my white mane and tail. There’s something so satisfying about letting the cares of the day fade away while indulging in nature's bounty.
A Time of Change and Progress
In 838 AD, our lives as horses seem to be changing rapidly. Just like the ever-shifting seasons, our human world is in constant flux. The Vikings have arrived, causing ripples throughout our land, although we don't feel the direct impact in our secluded valley in Hayfield.
What we do notice is an increase in the use of horses for various purposes, as well as some notable advancements in our harnessing and transportation methods. I heard from my older equine cousins that not long ago, our predecessors relied heavily on oxen for pulling and hauling. Thankfully, these sturdy workhorses are gradually being replaced with faster and more agile breeds like myself, making the job a bit easier!
A Special Event: The King’s Fair
One memory that remains vivid in my mind is the day I was selected to attend a special event, the King’s Fair held in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. My human companion, Angus, painstakingly cleaned and polished me for this important occasion, even braiding my mane with bright ribbons.
The journey to Edinburgh was an adventure filled with new sights, smells, and sounds. There were horses of all breeds, sizes, and colours, pulling carriages, carrying riders, and competing in races. The bustling fairgrounds were filled with merchants, artisans, and crowds of excited people from all walks of life.
While I had never participated in any competitive events, I observed the breathtaking display of strength and agility from my fellow horses. A stallion, whose name I believe was "Black Prince," stood out with his dark, sleek coat, regal stance, and powerful build. I imagined him gracefully navigating challenging obstacle courses and showcasing his unmatched speed in daring races. He seemed almost magical to me.
The End of a Long Day
After a day filled with wonder and awe, Angus and I returned to Hayfield, tired but exhilarated by our journey. Back home in the comforting familiar embrace of the stable, I enjoyed the calming feeling of soft straw under my hooves. A sense of peace settled upon me, reminding me that, despite all the changes, life as a horse in the year 838 AD was truly a rich tapestry, woven with work, play, and moments of breathtaking beauty.
Sharing My Horse-Wisdom
As I close my eyes, I think about how blessed I am to live in a world filled with adventure, kindness, and, yes, a bit of hardship. My life in Hayfield teaches me the value of resilience, dedication, and finding joy in the simplest things. And that is my horse-wisdom to all of you, my dear Equine readers: embrace life's adventures, find joy in the journey, and remember, our strength lies not only in our powerful legs but also in our hearts!
Until next time, neigh neigh!
-Emma, The Hayfield Mare
PS: I’m really looking forward to hearing your own stories. Have you been to a special event? Do you have any favourite routines in your daily life? Tell me all about it in the comments below!
Please remember, this blog post is entirely fictional and based on historical references. This was written to be light-hearted and to allow Emma the opportunity to discuss different elements of horse life.
