Hayfield, near Aberdeen, Scotland. 1st of January, 1028.
Good morning, dear readers! It's Emma here, writing to you from the heart of the Scottish Highlands. As we've just stepped into the year 1028, I thought I'd share my experiences as a young draught mare. My life is a little different from some of you, perhaps. My work, though demanding, is as important to our community as the air we breathe. As a draught horse, my strength and my temperament make me an essential part of life. Let me tell you about my world and all that I have learned in the year just passed!
It was during the tail-end of summer in 1027 that I felt my life change. My beautiful mother, Starlight, brought me to the edge of the farm where I would meet the young farmers, Angus and Caitlin. I was curious and a little afraid, but there was something about the warmth of their hands as they led me to the stable, their gentle voices talking to me - that told me I was safe and loved.
At first, everything was new! My hay, although delicious, was different from the sweet meadow grass that I knew. I wasn't used to being harnessed and felt a pang of nervousness when I saw the yoke for the first time, but with time, I realised the farmers, who we call our 'keepers' here in Scotland, were kind.
The tasks I was learning were so diverse! I learned to pull the plow through the rough Highland soil, and with every furrow, I felt myself growing stronger. I learnt how to carry heavy burdens of barley and oats to the mills, feeling my own strength helping the humans. It was tiring work, but I was proud to contribute, feeling the gratitude in the eyes of the keepers when I pulled my weight - literally! I have even learned to carry water in the barrels back from the well.
As winter set in, the work changed, too. I started to understand why they called me a "draught" horse. My strong frame is best for pulling wagons. In the colder months, we hauled firewood from the woods to keep the houses warm. Sometimes, I helped pull sleighs loaded with supplies to far-flung farms, and I could even feel the thrill of racing alongside other horses when we helped to move heavy pieces of lumber from the sawmills. I am so much more than just a worker; I am a valuable asset to the community.
Sometimes I see horses carrying their riders with proud purpose. They are not so strong as we are but so beautiful, with shiny coats and flowing manes. I would love to feel the wind in my mane and be so free. It's fascinating to hear the stories the keepers share about them - how these steeds are ridden in the tournaments that are growing more popular every year across England. I understand why their training focuses on agility and speed; these are warriors on horseback. But I know, in my heart, I am an important horse, too. I contribute in my own way and do what I do best, which is hard work, strength, and loyalty.
And loyalty is so important in my world! Even amongst us draught horses, I've learnt there's a distinct hierarchy. Old Star, our wise leader, a powerful grey mare with a voice like thunder, guides us. She knows all the best pastures and guides us safely over treacherous terrain. I also cherish the company of young Robin, a chestnut stallion full of energy. We’ve learned together, worked side by side, and now play together in the fields during breaks.
The old folks here talk about a King Canute, who ruled much of England. They say he had great respect for horses and, as he is our monarch, it brings us all comfort. We do a great deal of work in supporting trade and commerce. For example, we carry heavy crates of fish to the cities, bringing a taste of the sea to those who live far inland. And while I don’t get to meet him personally, the keepers say that he has some great horses!
One of my most cherished memories from 1027 is how we worked in harmony with other creatures. There's a large flock of sheep who live alongside our stable, and we worked with the farmers to move them to better grazing grounds. Their soft bleats always cheer me up. And in the spring, there are calves who follow us like a furry parade. They're always so happy to play around us! We even had a young family of deer settle near our fields and would often see their dappled forms amongst the trees. Sharing the countryside with them is like having a small piece of wilderness near us.
Evenings, when the work is done, we are bathed with loving care and get fresh, clean hay. Then I can stretch my muscles under the watchful eye of the moon. And sometimes, after all the work is done, there are whispered stories around the crackling fire in the barn. The stories come alive in the flickering light as the humans relate tales of valiant knights and wise heroes. They tell stories about my people, horses who have helped conquer foreign lands or save lives, making a mark on the world in their own special way. And that is what inspires me, my dear readers!
Now, as we head into 1028, the ground is frozen and our days are short. The farmers are preparing us for winter, checking our coats, cleaning our hooves, and making sure we have enough food and shelter. We rest more during this season. Even our energy needs a little time to recharge.
What is in store for me? What will this year bring? What kind of stories will we all hear, and what adventures will be experienced? You see, our lives are intertwined with humans. Their work, their dreams, their lives are part of our world too, as much as ours are part of theirs. And so, the year of 1028 dawns, and with it, a fresh beginning! Stay tuned, my readers, as we journey together into the heart of this new year, and may we all experience happiness, joy, and safety!
Till next time, Emma.
