The Year 1199: A Grey Mare's Tale
Hello, lovely readers, and welcome back to my humble corner of EquiWorld.org. It's Emma here, your trusty, grey-coated chronicler, back from the rolling fields of Hayfield, near the bustling town of Aberdeen. This year, 1199, feels momentous, and I've got a lot to tell you all about the exciting goings-on in the equine world.
A Royal Year of Change
As we all know, things are never boring when it comes to monarchs, and this year has been no exception. Remember King Richard the Lionheart, the one everyone thought would be forever king? Well, alas, he's gone, met his end far, far away in the heat of the French countryside.
Now, I don't have much opinion on politics myself. My interests are much more basic - a good mouthful of oats, a comfy stall, and a spirited gallop in the sun. However, the sudden shift in kings does make one wonder. Who will inherit the crown? We hear it's King John, Richard's brother. Let's hope he has as much love for horses as his predecessor. After all, a king who doesn't appreciate a fine steed, is no king in my book!
The Busy World of Breeding
Speaking of kings, rumour has it that even back in those days, royals weren't just about grand courts and glittering swords. A certain "Queen" in England is apparently very interested in horses. They say she’s keen on developing a breed of sturdy, fast-moving warhorses. I’m hoping she has good judgment, and that the results are better than some of the…unconventional breeds of the past.
But, it’s not all about royals. As a mare, my interest naturally leans towards the more domestic world of breeding.
Across Hayfield, foals are filling the fields, and there's a definite energy in the air. A lot of these new foals have that same spark, that same spirit of adventure, and it’s heartening. Even those small, clumsy legs will be galloping freely and with gusto in no time.
Horses, Food, and Festivals
One of the most important things for a horse like myself is a healthy diet. And let me tell you, 1199 has been a year of plenty. Thanks to the recent long, sunny summer, the pastures are lush and full of juicy grasses. The barley and oats from this harvest look exceptionally promising, too, which means my farmer’s already planning to increase the grain rations. This brings much joy, let me tell you, especially when combined with those deliciously sweet, crisp apples! I’ll be feasting like a royal, I can tell!
Besides a good belly, a horse needs some entertainment too. This year's been alive with local festivals. My favorite is the Midsummer Night celebration, with dancing bonfires, the tantalizing smell of roasting sausages, and of course, the excitement of a lively horse race. I'm not sure if they’re for entertainment or tradition, but they sure get everyone moving! The townsfolk cheer loudly, and the air crackles with energy.
A World of Wonders
But for a mare who spends most of her time on a farm, there's something very magical about seeing the world. Even for a workhorse, a journey on a busy road is always exciting. This year, I saw the largest gathering of horsemen and horses, travelling to the south, a pilgrimage of sorts. Some were carrying banners with curious images and slogans I couldn't quite understand. They seemed bound for a great gathering in the heart of England, but what their mission is, remains a mystery. Perhaps a future blog post will reveal the truth behind those travels.
For now, I'm glad to be here, back in my beloved Hayfield. 1199 has been a busy, eventful year. What an extraordinary time to be a horse! The future holds even more possibilities. I look forward to witnessing all the exciting changes and developments in the coming months and years. Until then, dear readers, may your oats be plentiful and your gallops free!
Your faithful grey,
Emma
