Welcome to my EquiWorld blog, fellow horse lovers!
It’s Emma here, a spirited grey draught mare from Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. I'm just turning twenty this year, and, like any other sensible mare my age, I've been pondering life and the wonderful world of horses. This year, 1034, feels momentous somehow. It's like the winds of change are blowing, even here in the highlands of Scotland.
So, without further ado, let’s delve into the equine adventures of 1034. Buckle up, because we’re about to go on a journey through history…
From Hayfield with Love:
First, a little bit about Hayfield. We're a quaint, hardworking community nestled in the shadow of the majestic Cairngorms. The rolling hills are dotted with farms, their pastures thick with lush grasses, perfect for our kind. We draughts are vital to the lifeblood of these farms, helping with plowing, harrowing, and pulling carts heavy with grain or logs. Life is often hard, especially in the harsh winters, but the close-knit community is full of warmth and camaraderie. I’m blessed to have a kind and gentle human, Maggie, who cares for me and understands the language of my ears.
*The World of Horses: *
Horses have always played an essential role in this world, and 1034 is no exception. From the rolling fields of Europe to the dusty plains of Asia, we're integral to everything - transportation, agriculture, and warfare. This year, though, I've noticed a growing sense of anticipation, of change brewing on the horizon.
Arabian Stallions and Trade:
My friend Finnigan, a handsome chestnut stallion who came over from the south on a trading ship, has been whispering tales about the Arabian horses. They're small but agile, incredibly fast, and said to possess a fiery spirit. Apparently, some powerful men across the seas are breeding with these stallions to create even faster and more powerful warhorses. These “Turks” are rumored to have these prized Arabian steeds in abundance, and, whisper it quietly, it seems they might even be marching their way westward towards Europe. I must say, even a gentle giant like me gets excited by such tales.
The War Horses:
Speaking of warhorses, they're not exactly a favourite topic in our quiet Hayfield. It's all well and good for these noble steeds to be courageous on the battlefield, but sometimes, the tales are laced with too much sadness. You hear whispers about brave chargers losing their riders and enduring agonizing wounds. It’s not something I’d wish upon any horse, no matter how spirited. However, even a draught mare like me can’t deny that the mere sight of a battle-hardened horse is exhilarating. Their eyes gleam with experience, their muscle taut with a honed strength. There's something noble and awe-inspiring about their strength.
The Life of a Draught Mare:
Meanwhile, my life continues in its usual rhythm. Every morning, I awaken to the chorus of clucking chickens and bleating sheep. Maggie will often sing me a little song as she brings me fresh hay and oats. My days are filled with plodding through the fields, hauling carts of wheat to the mill, or transporting logs for building sturdy homes. It’s not glamorous, but there's a deep sense of purpose and pride that comes with providing for the community. Every furrow I turn, every load I carry, builds the foundations of life here.
Whispers of Change:
Beyond our peaceful haven in the highlands, change seems to be bubbling in the world. There's talk of unrest in distant kingdoms. This "King Harold" of England, they say, is battling with those Northmen invaders, the Vikings, for control of his land. There are stories of cunning kings and brave warriors. It’s a whirlwind of events I cannot grasp, but even in this quiet corner of the world, we feel the rumble of change.
A Year to Remember:
As I watch the changing seasons - the vibrant green of summer giving way to the fiery golds of autumn, and then the chill white embrace of winter – I think about how this year, 1034, feels different. I sense a sense of tension and anticipation, as though the world is holding its breath, waiting for what's to come.
Whether these changes bring fortune or strife, I'll be here, my hooves grounded in the soil of my homeland, continuing my work and living my life as a proud draught mare, content with the simple joys of Hayfield. But I'll be keeping a watchful eye, and perhaps my dear Finnigan can keep me updated on all the exciting events as they unfold.
So stay tuned, dear friends. The adventure has just begun, and I can't wait to share it with you. See you next time!
Your Friend,
Emma, Grey Draught Mare
Hayfield, Scotland
