Hello fellow equines! It's Emma here, your trusty blog-writing steed from the rolling hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen. As you may know, I'm a grey draught mare with a flash of white in my mane and tail. And this month, I’m particularly thrilled to be writing this blog post – it's all about the exciting year of 1172!
This is a time of great change in the world of horses, much like my own life has seen. I just turned twenty this spring, a seasoned mare now. My youthful antics of nipping at the orchard apple trees are a distant memory – though I still appreciate a juicy piece of fruit or two when no one’s looking! My sturdy build and calm temperament make me the perfect workhorse, whether it's hauling loads of barley to the mill, or pulling a sturdy cart to market. And boy, is the world busy in 1172!
A Year of Busy Beeves and Boisterous BattlesI must tell you about my recent adventure, one I'm sure will forever be etched into my memory – a journey across the wild, windswept moorland to the grand city of York! It was a mission of great importance, you see. My human companion, young Elspeth, is an accomplished weaver. She crafted tapestries that the lords and ladies of the great south found fascinating.
Our journey began on a crisp morning, the sky alive with the calls of larks. With the first golden rays of dawn, we loaded the heavy cart, a mix of silks and wool, linen and tapestries, each carefully secured to prevent damage. I remember Elspeth, a determined glint in her blue eyes, carefully adjusting my harness, ensuring every strap was firm and comfortable. She hummed a soft, soothing tune while she worked, a lullaby for my equine soul. I love that lass, a gentle soul with a kind hand and a steady touch.
Our path took us across treacherous terrain – moors kissed by fog and misty hills whispering ancient secrets. The air grew colder, tinged with the scents of peat and heather, and I recall the gentle sting of frost in the air, reminding me of winter’s chill on its way.
Then, just as the sun dipped low in the sky, casting long, dramatic shadows across the land, we arrived at the edge of a great forest. The air thrummed with an eerie, mystical energy. There, beside a stream sparkling under the waning sunlight, Elspeth rested, offering me sweet barley and sharing her meager rations with me. As darkness crept over us, I felt a surge of protectiveness for her. Though she is small, she is my responsibility. And we have an important journey ahead.
The bustling market
Dawn found us reaching York’s gates, and what a magnificent sight it was! My ears perked, taking in the cacophony of human voices, the bleating of sheep, the clatter of hooves on cobblestones. This was my first taste of city life, a sensory overload of sights and smells, each unique and compelling.
The market square was bustling with life, vendors displaying their wares: sturdy shoes and robust cloaks, sparkling jewels and carved trinkets. Elspeth’s tapestry attracted attention, a magnificent display of intricate woven tales, tales of ancient heroes and epic battles. The vibrant hues, the intricate designs, they held court – and within the square, I found myself becoming a star attraction!
The world of chivalry and war
It was there in the heart of York that I learnt about the ongoing war in Normandy, a conflict that threatened to engulf the entire world! While Elspeth hawked her wares, a troop of mounted knights arrived, their armour glinting in the afternoon sun. I recall how they stopped before us, captivated by the tapestry depicting a king battling a dragon – the fiercest creature of legend. They examined it with genuine curiosity and seemed impressed by its detail. Their horses were as impressive as their riders. Handsome beasts, sleek and powerful. They even sported a strange new armor.
That night, amidst the humdrum of city sounds, Elspeth told me of the battles and the knights, how the fate of nations hung precariously in the balance. I felt a stir of unease – wars and their aftermath are rarely peaceful, their whispers echo for many moons. They bring disquiet to even the most contented horse's heart. But amidst these dark clouds, I found a strange allure – the valiant spirit of the knights, their dedication, their courage. It instilled a new respect for them in my heart.
I learnt how horses like me play an integral part in this human game of power and politics. From the majestic steeds carrying knights on battlefields to the hardy horses like myself who move goods and sustain populations, our strength is essential. And yet, I also saw the harsh reality – how a noble war horse can be mortally wounded, how the harsh life on a battlefield takes a heavy toll.
The world is a changing place
As I embarked on my return journey, I realized how much had shifted within me, a realization born of this grand adventure. The year 1172, I see now, is a time of unprecedented growth and change in the world. From the ongoing war to the increasing demand for horses like me to the intricate art of tapestry making, the world is pulsing with a newfound energy, and we, the horses, play an integral part in this grand tapestry of human existence.
It was a journey of discovery, one that enriched my understanding of the world beyond my home in Hayfield, a place where life flowed at a gentler pace. My spirit feels expanded, my heart stirred with newfound curiosity. I return home a changed mare, a seasoned steed with tales to tell and experiences to share. I believe our kind have never been more important to human progress and it is a responsibility that we should take seriously and with pride.
But, until next time, farewell, dear friends! May your own adventures be grand, your burdens light, and your stables well-stocked with delicious barley!
Emma
P.S My adventures continue! You'll hear more of them on my next blog post! Stay tuned to EquiWorld and follow my exciting journey!
