Neigh-sayers beware! This is Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey draught mare, checking in from my sunny meadow in Hayfield near Aberdeen. The heather's in full bloom and the air is alive with the scent of wildflowers, making me almost forget it's already the middle of August, 1234. What a year it's been! Let me tell you, 1234 was an absolute whirlwind for the horse world! I know, you're probably thinking, “Horses? What could possibly be so exciting in the life of a horse back in the good old days?” Oh, you haven't even scratched the surface, my friend! Let's jump right into it, shall we?
It’s been a full 20 years since my arrival on this earth – what a joy to be alive, strong and healthy, living with my favourite humans, the Macdonald family. We live a peaceful life in this lovely corner of Scotland. It's quiet, except for the sheep and their baa-ing!
Right from a young filly, my strength was clear for all to see. As a strong draught horse, I was soon put to work on the farm, helping with the heavy pulling. No fancy carriages for me – oh no! It’s carting the grain to the mill and helping the Macdonalds plow their fields that are my life. Even with all the work, I must say, I enjoy a life of simplicity, living in the open, fresh air and all. And if truth be told, I quite enjoy the scent of fresh, turned soil – though maybe don't tell my human friend Angus that!
I am often lucky enough to go out into the world, pulling a sturdy cart for Angus on errands for the Macdonald’s family. He always treats me well and I find these jaunts quite an adventure. Though the journeys may not take me further than the market in nearby Aberdeen, seeing the bustling city life never fails to make my ears twitch with curiosity!
As I trotted through the market one recent morning, I noticed an amazing display of leather saddles and harnesses - each a magnificent piece of craftsmanship! As I grazed the lush fields the next day, I mused about the beauty and artistry of those leather creations, and wondered where in the world these horses were going?
It was during a recent journey to Aberdeen with Angus that I had a chance to discover for myself. It was a momentous occasion – I was to witness a great parade of the finest horses of the region! Imagine - lines and lines of steeds, both stallions and mares, each pulling a magnificent carriage, shining with gold and glittering with jewels, all decked out in magnificent adornments and bearing their proud riders, some dressed in dazzling silks! What an unforgettable spectacle. And a true reminder of the majestic role that horses have always played in the human world!
Oh, and while we’re on the topic of adornment and beautiful harnesses, I must tell you about a young filly, a fellow draught horse just like me, named Rose! She was so beautifully decorated with intricately woven red ribbons - a sight to behold! She carried an intricate cart piled high with produce, her dark chestnut coat sparkling in the morning light, almost as vibrant as the blooming meadows surrounding her. Her rider, a woman with fiery red hair to match, laughed joyously, her head thrown back. I'll admit to feeling a twinge of envy. It reminded me of what was most special about life as a horse - the companionship we share with our human friends.
So, that was my little trip to the big city – exciting, yes! But my real adventure, as you already know, was unfolding closer to home. This year was not without its challenges – a little drama was certainly in the air. The King himself was calling for horses. Every single year the crown seeks out sturdy and healthy animals for the arduous journey south, down into England! My humans, the Macdonalds, had their share of concern as the King’s riders stopped by our village to select horses.
You see, this particular year, King Henry III himself was planning to move his royal court from Winchester in the south to York. Can you believe it? And he was taking a royal escort of several hundred horses along with him! Now that’s what I call travelling in style.
I know many young horses who were filled with excitement at the chance to journey far from their homesteads, with the royal entourage no less. I watched in admiration, feeling a pang of longing. My role, it seemed, would forever be a more mundane one, close to the land, supporting the work that kept the MacDonald's family safe and happy. As strong and healthy as I may be, there's something that prevents me from being taken so far from the rolling hills and the soft meadows of Hayfield.
And then, the real excitement started brewing! I discovered a truly intriguing secret – King Henry III had a fondness for all things horses, and what do you think he brought with him on this royal sojourn? You’ve guessed it! A beautiful black stallion, named "Jet". He's considered the ultimate stud in the country! Can you imagine! Being a stud himself, I had to share in this moment, because after all, what stallion can resist a story like this!
Oh, and the King's love for horses was quite a novelty! It seemed as if the man wanted to live and breathe nothing but horse talk. I heard he spent hours every day admiring Jet and meticulously grooming his coat. You can’t really blame him – Jet is a fine horse with such powerful physique and proud, flowing black mane.
It didn't take long for whispers to spread like wildfire about the grand events that awaited us - an enormous feast, in celebration of the royal family's presence at York. But that wasn't the real excitement - oh no! The highlight of the whole celebration was going to be the grand tournament, an ancient tradition and a truly thrilling display of skill and prowess for both rider and horse!
This particular tournament held a special kind of magic. A group of the best riders, hand-picked from across England, were about to showcase their skills with a grand exhibition of horsemanship and their loyalty to the king. Can you imagine the spectacle of so many gallant knights, galloping around, each rider with their shining armour, ready to show their bravery and loyalty? Just picturing those men astride their mighty steeds is enough to set my hooves tapping!
With such an incredible display of horse-riding talent, the anticipation and chatter around Hayfield reached fever pitch. All eyes were fixed on this upcoming event. I couldn't wait to hear every single detail - a tale about chivalry and nobility. I spent days glued to every story of those majestic creatures who participated in that legendary spectacle. Just thinking about those brave men and their trusty horses puts a gallop in my stride and a neigh of excitement in my throat!
But not everything in 1234 was about spectacular events and regal journeys! For some horses, like me, our everyday life revolved around the simpler pleasures of nature and quiet hard work. I continued my role as a reliable worker on the MacDonald’s family farm, providing strength and support where needed, as we all lived and toiled under the beautiful Scottish sky. I must say, that I still found time to be utterly captivated by tales from my human companions who were eager to share news of this event in all its grandeur.
Yes, the world in 1234 seemed so vast and varied – and so exciting! There was always a tale to be heard, a piece of gossip to pass on, or a new discovery to make! There’s always a journey of wonder waiting to unfold around every corner of our equine world. I'm glad to be sharing this year in the life of a horse with you! So until next time, neigh-sayers and lovers of horses, happy trails and may your lives be full of exciting moments like mine. Remember to leave a comment for us – we love to hear what you’re all up to in the exciting world of horses!
