A whinny and a hello from Emma, your humble correspondent from the rolling hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. Welcome to my latest blog post, equine enthusiasts!
This year, 976, has been a fascinating one to observe, from my humble position as a workhorse on a small croft. The world is in constant change, a whirlwind of shifting winds and roaring tides that affect us all, whether we're plodding the fields or galloping across plains.
As a grey draught horse with a white mane and tail, I've always been known for my strength and reliability. In the fields, I pull the plow, carry loads, and help with harvest. The year 976 hasn't been any different. But there's more to it than just my day-to-day chores. I see the big picture.
The World Through Hooves
For starters, we're living in a world on the edge. The Vikings have been raiding and plundering the coastlines, especially in England and Ireland. They're fearsome, riding their horses with lightning speed, striking fast, and vanishing before any defense can be mustered.
Thankfully, we're far up north in Scotland. Here, the terrain is wilder and tougher. The Viking longships can't navigate our deep lochs and rugged shores easily. They are more prone to settle in quieter, more coastal locations, setting up kingdoms with long-lasting legacies, although that’s not much comfort to the people who live near their settlements.
Even with our rugged landscape, we see evidence of their presence everywhere. They leave a trail of whispers, their swords glinting in the moonlight as they raid farmyards. It’s a time of uncertainty and constant alert, even in our quiet corner of the world.
Horse Power Across Europe
Despite the Viking menace, there’s much going on throughout Europe. The Frankish Empire continues to hold power, with Charlemagne at the helm. His kingdom is vast, reaching from northern Italy to the North Sea, but his empire isn't immune to challenges. He faces internal strife and pressure from rebellions and invaders.
Horses are crucial for maintaining his authority, the source of his power. He's got his mounted warriors and cavalry. They're strong, and they're fierce. Their steeds are magnificent, bred for war and endurance. These horses, in many ways, represent his influence.
Everyday Life of a Draught Horse
I haven't seen a Frankish cavalryman in person, but my owners get news of the outside world from passing traders and merchants. This knowledge filters down to me, the farmhands, and even the sheep, though the sheep mostly prefer to talk about what they’ve eaten or seen from atop a hillock.
Most of my life revolves around my simple, rural existence. I spend my days working alongside the farmers, helping with ploughing the fields, hauling carts, and bringing in the harvest. My owners are kind and look after me well.
Sometimes, when my chores are done, I lie down by the river, soaking up the warm sun, munching on juicy meadow grasses. These peaceful moments are precious, a small reminder that life is full of blessings, even in a time of upheaval.
Horses in My World
But the beauty of the world is in the little things, like a crisp morning sunrise illuminating the dew on the grass, or the scent of barley being harvested on a breezy autumn afternoon.
The most magical thing about my life here in Hayfield is the bond I have with my stable mates. We're all of different breeds and colours, but we share this special, unspoken language – the whinny of recognition, the gentle touch of a friendly nose, the understanding look that says, 'Let's explore the meadow together!'
Every day brings something new. A new colt is born in the stables, a hawk circles overhead, its keen eyes looking for prey. Life here in Hayfield is a constant ballet of sounds, scents, and sensations, all adding up to a tapestry of existence that can be hard to explain, but one I wouldn't trade for all the war horses and Viking raiders in the world.
A Few Words about Riding Horses
For those interested in riding, it’s worth noting that a distinct shift is happening. It’s not just the noble warrior charging on horseback, anymore. It’s about travel and elegance, a way of showing status and refinement. I see these 'riding' horses sometimes, prancing on cobblestone paths in villages further south, their riders sitting tall, sporting fashionable attire and proud saddles.
These horses are different than us, smaller, lighter, with more agile movements. The difference between their riders and ours is stark: Our humans are all calloused hands and weather-beaten faces, working tirelessly on the land, their backs straight from years of bending to the rhythm of a horse’s stride. Those riders, on the other hand, hold themselves upright and proud, more concerned with style than soil.
The Future… With a Dash of Oats
As we enter the next year, I feel the urge to be optimistic, even in a world with a growing sense of chaos and unpredictability. We have to believe in the goodness that still exists. After all, life, with its challenges and its triumphs, its sorrow and its joy, is still worth living. It's about the warmth of the sun on my back, the rustling of leaves in the wind, the companionship of my fellow steeds. It's about finding a moment of peace, no matter what’s going on in the world. It's about being present, breathing, living, being a horse.
Don’t forget to check out Equiworld next month, my friends! I’ll be sharing my thoughts on what 977 brings for horses and humans alike. Until then, may your stalls be clean, your oats plentiful, and your hearts filled with hope!
Best wishes,
Emma, your friendly Hayfield Horse.
