Post Number 1158
Greetings fellow equines and horse-loving humans! It's Emma, your friendly neighbourhood grey mare from the bustling fields of Hayfield near Aberdeen. I know what you're thinking – a grey mare, in 1158, blogging?! Yes, you heard right! Sometimes, I wish I could just munch on clover in peace, but my inner horse historian just has to share her insights with the world.
Now, 1158... What a year! Let's be honest, not the most glamorous of years in equine history. While my fancy cousins in the Middle East might be getting pampered by those clever Arabs, us up north are busy hauling supplies, turning the plough, and working hard to support the communities around us. It's an important job, don't get me wrong! We keep the fields flowing, and the families fed – all while enjoying the invigorating Scottish breeze.
But back to my story. My mane feels like a silk scarf today, as shiny and soft as a summer morning dew. It's thanks to our blacksmith, Murdoch. He knows a thing or two about keeping our coats glossy and our hooves sturdy. You might think horses like me are only good for hauling heavy things, but we're not just muscles, we're creatures of beauty, too. My tail whips gracefully in the breeze when I'm working, and it gives a most magnificent swish when I’m enjoying a relaxing afternoon graze in the fields with my fellow mares.
Speaking of which, my friends and I were having a rather interesting conversation just this morning. One of them, a lovely brown mare named Elsie, was recounting tales from her uncle. You see, he was a warrior horse who served in the Battle of Largs back in 1263! Can you believe it? I was born before Elsie's uncle, making me a bit of a historical veteran! Imagine being born just a few decades after the infamous William the Conqueror stepped foot in England. Now those were interesting times for sure, filled with fierce knights and dramatic battles, though thankfully, those days are behind us.
For us, life is relatively peaceful these days, thank heavens. But you see, while 1158 doesn't scream 'epic horse events', there are still small whispers of excitement to discover. This year, I hear rumours about the building of a new monastery in Aberdeen, and that brings a little something extra to the mix. It means more people, and you know what that means… MORE OATS! The monks need horses for hauling building supplies, so everyone is enjoying extra snacks.
That, however, reminds me, there's a catch. With all this talk of oats and buildings, some horses tend to get a bit... restless. They find ways to escape the farms and the barns, and wander off on their own. I can't tell you the times I’ve seen some of them snoozing in the barley fields, only to be dragged back by their irate owners. Those humans seem to think oats are like magnets!
Another exciting tidbit: my stable-mate, Duncan, he’s a young stallion with the most amazing spirit! He tells me that the Normans, who settled down in England a century ago, have their horses! They're not your standard, chunky draught horses like me, no. Duncan claims they’re much quicker and nimbler, all fancy coats and long legs! I bet they're pretty for sure. Maybe someday, I’ll even get to see one for myself! Who knows, maybe one of them will even grace our Scottish shores soon. Can you imagine how elegant they would look on this stunning countryside?
And you know what? That reminds me – have you seen the current state of our roads? Just imagine how exciting life would be if the roads were paved, like the ones the Romans created a while ago! Imagine being able to travel across the country with speed and comfort! It would be like a horse's dream come true! But unfortunately, that remains in the realm of horse fantasies for now. The roads are more like dusty paths, and sometimes, a bit muddy, which definitely tests your footing, let me tell you. But you learn to appreciate the things you have, you know.
Even with the challenging terrain and the odd rogue horse escape, life for us here in Hayfield is truly special. Our humans treat us like family. We’re not just workhorses, but their companions, their friends, their confidantes. There's nothing quite like a quiet, early morning graze while the sun gently peeks through the hills, knowing that the people I love have a good, full day ahead of them. And for this grey mare, that's what truly makes 1158 a remarkable year.
Keep your noses to the wind, my fellow equine friends! And until next time, happy munching!
Emma
