Greetings, fellow equines!
Emma here, a 20-year-old grey draught mare with a flowing white mane and tail. I'm writing to you from Hayfield, a small village nestled in the beautiful rolling hills near Aberdeen, Scotland. It's been a busy year, as usual, full of exciting moments and the ever-present tasks that come with being a hardworking horse. Let me share some of the stories from this year, 1059, with you, so we can reminisce and learn together about the world of horses, past and present.
The world seems to be abuzz with talk of this year being the first in a long time where the harvests have been plentiful. It’s been a great year for the fields of oats, barley and even some new types of grain being introduced by those travelling merchants who visited our village a few weeks back. The fields are bountiful, and everyone is happy, including us horses. That means a well-stocked stable for winter!
The Farmers’ Friend
As a draught mare, my days are primarily filled with hard work and pulling, but let me tell you, I love it. Nothing beats the feel of a sturdy harness on my back, and the rhythm of my powerful strides pulling the heavy plough across the field. Our kind are an integral part of life in this time, helping to create food and support our communities. This year I have worked with Farmer Angus, a kindly old soul, to help plant and cultivate fields. It’s backbreaking work but satisfying, too, watching the crops thrive, knowing that I helped nurture them from seed to harvest.
I particularly remember one scorching afternoon this summer. We were out in the field, the sun beating down on our backs as we pulled a wagon full of hay bales back to the barn. It was hot, and we were all tired, but the thought of the warm food waiting in the stables fuelled us on. And when we finally arrived, we were all met with a chorus of delighted barks from Farmer Angus' faithful hound, Sparky. He would always greet us after a long day of work, wagging his tail and sharing a playful nibble on our noses.
More Than Just Farmwork
It's not all work and no play for us, however. We are lucky to live in a time when we are cherished not only for our strength but also for our beauty and companionship. In Hayfield, there’s a yearly event held during the harvest celebrations. All the horses, including those owned by the local blacksmith, miller and the mayor himself, gather to participate in a parade through the town square. It’s a chance to strut our stuff and receive praise and admiration from the villagers. The children in the village always love the spectacle, especially the bright ribbons we are decorated with. They squeal with delight as we make our way down the lane, the ground shaking with the steady beat of our hooves.
The atmosphere is festive, filled with laughter, music, and the scent of roasted meats and freshly baked bread. It's truly an honour to be part of this event and to feel the energy and love from the townsfolk. It’s also a great opportunity for us to show off our grace, speed and stamina. Although, my age might mean that I am a bit too slow for some of the races the younger horses enjoy, and let's face it, they all think they can beat me, they think they’re the fastest thing on four legs, those youngsters! But this old mare has plenty of spirit and a strong gallop left in her yet!
The Wider World of Horses
One evening, we were gathered around the stable door listening to Farmer Angus, who’d just returned from the village market. The villagers had spoken of rumours swirling about knights travelling on magnificent steeds, tales of tournaments and war in distant lands. Their stories filled our minds with a sense of wonder. The life of a farm horse may seem mundane to some, but it allows me to observe the wider world through the eyes of those who venture out beyond our humble village.
The stories we hear bring a vibrancy and dynamism to our daily routines. It seems that the world of horses is vast and exciting, beyond the fields and the stable doors we know so well. Just a few months ago, one of the merchant caravans that stop by each year had with them a horse they called a "Baroque Spanish" stallion. I heard tell it travelled with a king, all the way from sunny lands across the sea, where the sun never quite sets, you see! Its coat was the colour of burnt copper with beautiful dapples all over, a beautiful sight to behold! That horse was almost mythical. It was said to be as proud as a lion and to have a step so bold it almost seemed to float over the ground!
We talk, of course, about the horses in the village and how lucky we are to have this way of life. And the other horses, who are of noble blood and roam free with those knights, we admire them greatly for their skill and bravery. This wider world, which is more than just pulling a cart and hauling a plough, is quite fascinating. Who knows what the future holds for my brethren in those grand lands, for us humble farm horses here in Scotland?
More Than Just a Working Horse
Although I love working on the farm, the simple pleasure of being outside with the elements is something I never take for granted. We spend our days breathing in the fresh air, grazing on green fields, and basking in the warmth of the sun.
I particularly cherish the evenings, as the sun begins to dip towards the horizon, casting a golden glow over everything. It's at these times that we enjoy a moment of peace, watching the world around us settle down for the night. The sounds of the birdsong soften to gentle chirps, and the gentle breeze rustles the leaves, whispering secrets only we can hear.
These quiet moments allow us to reflect on the day's events, appreciate the bonds we have with one another, and feel gratitude for the simple joys of existence. It’s the time when our herd, all different sizes, colours and ages, bond and enjoy one another’s company, exchanging tales from our day and sharing whispered secrets.
The Legacy of Horses
And as the years pass, we witness the cycle of life unfolding around us. New foals arrive with playful antics and a sense of innocent adventure. It’s wonderful to see the young ones come into their own, learning about the world and their place within it. I find it humbling to witness their spirit, reminding me of the vitality and resilience of our breed. As time passes, they become stronger, taller and will carry the legacy of our equine family with them, through both gentle farmwork and grand ventures far away.
So there you have it, dear readers, a glimpse into the life of a simple farm horse, my dear friends! It's not always easy, there are times when my bones ache and my muscles grow weary. Yet, it is a life of honest toil, of shared stories and the contentment of being surrounded by those we love, those who care for us. The world around us changes, of course, and the things we do might vary over time.
But for us horses, I believe there are constants - the love of the fields, the quiet beauty of the evening sky, the feel of the strong harness on our backs and the gentle touch of a human hand. It is these elements, more than any fancy ribbon or fast gallop, that form the essence of our world and, I hope, always will.
Until next time, dear readers, may your stables be well-stocked and your fields be filled with sunshine!
Your friend, Emma
P.S. Have you visited our village of Hayfield, near Aberdeen? It’s truly a lovely place to experience life in rural Scotland, especially if you love horses! We would be thrilled to meet you!
