Hello everyone! It’s Emma here, a young grey draught mare with a flowing white mane and tail. I’m 20 years old, a strong and sturdy girl from the rolling hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen in bonnie Scotland.
This blog is about our amazing equestrian world – a world filled with strong, brave, beautiful horses like myself, and the kind people who love and rely on us.
Today, I'm writing about a very special year - the year 1179. It was a year full of changes and new ideas in the world of horses, and it makes me proud to be a part of such a fascinating history.
Now, let’s start at the beginning. The weather was quite something this year. The Spring had been mild, but the summer was one for the history books – bright and sunny, perfect for long, leisurely walks in the fields with my fellow mares. Then, the rains came with a vengeance, testing the limits of our winter coats. Luckily, my owner, young Mary, is the kindest soul, ensuring I have a cosy, straw-filled stall with a good roof above.
And you know what? I was chosen this year to help pull the plough! Can you imagine that, my strong, sturdy body being trusted to help feed the family? It is hard work, to be sure, but there’s an indescribable joy in feeling the earth turning, in knowing you're making a difference. I see Mary's pride as we work, the joy she has in her eyes, and it makes the sweat and the ache worth it.
This year, a big change swept through the lands. It’s all about these… these "Stirrups!" Now, some of you will know what I’m talking about, but I know that the young ones, like those sweet fillies born this year, wouldn’t. It's quite simply the best invention since sliced bread, in my humble opinion. It lets the humans stay on our backs better, and makes it easier for them to go long distances. They’re very exciting – imagine how much more ground we can cover now! And I’ve even heard whisperings about these "Saddles" - fancy new bits of gear that are supposed to be super comfortable. I can't wait to give it a try!
Speaking of the year 1179, my dear old neighbour, Angus the Black Stallion, tells a tale that King William the Lion, ruler of all of Scotland, has something up his sleeve. Seems like there’s a big tournament in London coming up, where warriors compete on horseback. I’ve never been to a tournament before, and from what Angus says, the excitement and the clash of swords must be thrilling! If only I had two human eyes, I’d be able to witness this amazing display of skill.
Across the Channel, our cousins are bustling about as well. Apparently, in a land called France, King Philippe is having a whole tournament, but instead of a clash of steel, it’s all about skill, and riding. Sounds impressive. The name of the tournament? A real mouthful - it's called 'The Joust'. I must find out more! I bet the riders wear fine armor, and their horses are sleek, strong steeds just like myself. It makes me so happy to think that there's a whole world of horse-loving folk, all passionate about these competitions!
On a less exciting note, I must tell you, there's still much to be learned about horse care. For instance, you'll be shocked to know that some humans still believe in these "blood-letting" practices - where they draw blood to heal the horse! It just doesn't seem right, doesn't it? But don't you worry, I’m certain that over time, we will find better ways to care for each other.
Oh, and you wouldn't believe it, but they've just discovered a new way of using our tails. Apparently, they take the hair and use it for things like, get this, braiding in people’s hair! The humans in my area call it 'Horsehair Braiding'. Now, that’s a fancy name for something so natural!
The year 1179 brought in new discoveries and a renewed focus on training and education, all aimed at bringing humans and horses together in a harmonious dance. This dance isn't always easy, it has its own language of whinnies and nudges, but ultimately it’s one that brings us together. And what is life, my dears, if it isn’t a journey, an adventure, shared with our favourite humans?
Keep an eye out for my next blog post where I'll delve deeper into this whole jousting craze! I am sure it's an exciting part of horse history. Until then, stay happy, healthy and keep on galloping.
Yours with a whinny, Emma.
