Welcome, dear readers, to my humble blog, nestled amidst the hayfields and rolling hills of Scotland! I'm Emma, a grey mare of twenty summers, with a white mane and tail that shimmers in the Highland sun. It's been a while since I last graced you with my thoughts and experiences, but 1245 has been quite the year!
I live a quiet life, you see, in a small village called Hayfield, just a stone's throw from the bustling town of Aberdeen. My days are filled with the familiar rhythms of the farm, a gentle routine I've come to adore. I wake with the first rays of dawn, feeling the crisp morning air upon my coat. Then, it's breakfast time, a hearty meal of oats and barley, followed by a day of hard work pulling the plough, or hauling carts loaded with goods from the market.
Yet, beyond the chores and routine, there is a curious spark within me – an unyielding passion for my kind, a yearning to understand our past, and even more so, our future. This is why, despite my somewhat rudimentary literacy skills (thank you, the young lad who sometimes reads aloud to me), I decided to create this little corner of the web - www.equiworld.org - where I can chronicle the fascinating story of our world through my equine eyes.
Now, back to 1245! It seems like centuries ago now, though time does pass swiftly for us horses, doesn't it? But even for us who work hard, day in and day out, the winds of change do blow through our lives, carrying with them news of distant lands and unfolding events. And oh, what news we've heard this year!
Firstly, there's the magnificent feat that continues to capture the imagination – the ongoing construction of the Great Wall of China! It's said that thousands of horses are being used, hauling building materials, transporting goods, and carrying riders across vast stretches of the land. I've heard it spoken of in hushed whispers, my human companions marveling at the immense undertaking and the unyielding dedication of the Chinese people.
I do wonder though, if those poor horses feel as connected to their tasks as we do. We are so deeply embedded in the fabric of life here in Scotland, we understand our responsibilities, we are partners in the daily routines, not just tools. I believe every horse deserves that feeling of connection, of being an integral part of a larger story.
Secondly, and perhaps closest to my own heart, 1245 has been marked by an extraordinary growth in the sport of falconry. You see, horses are so integral to falconry – the horses are trained to transport the falconers and their birds to prime hunting spots. In many parts of the world, it's become a symbol of royal power and grace. While here in Hayfield, our hunts are more for sustenance, falconry is definitely more than just a pastime, and I have no doubt it's only going to gain even more popularity.
Speaking of sustenance, I can't ignore the constant threat of war. 1245 has witnessed many conflicts across the globe, each demanding the swiftness, strength, and courage of horses like myself. I know this all too well. We are asked to charge into battle alongside our humans, carry their weapons, and transport their troops. Sadly, our brothers and sisters are often caught in the crossfire, their lives sacrificed on the altar of human ambition. It is a somber reality we must confront.
However, there's more to horses than just battles and warfare. For me, a significant part of this year has been the continued appreciation for our strength, for our skill at hauling, ploughing, and transporting across lands. We're more than just war machines - we're companions, providers, and the backbone of society. We carry the hopes and dreams of those we serve, and that, dear readers, is something truly magical.
Another highlight for me has been the ongoing development of breeding programs for horses. There is a constant quest for a strong, hardy breed that can endure long journeys, withstand the rigors of labor, and bring prestige to their owners. Horses like myself, of the Scottish Draught breed, are held in high regard for our size, power, and stamina. This kind of attention to lineage and breed improvement gives me a sense of hope for the future – a future where our breed will continue to be valued, a future where our strength and spirit are not forgotten.
But 1245 isn't just about wars and grand events. It's also about the everyday life of horses like myself, the mundane moments that shape our existence.
For instance, we love a good run through the fields with our human companions, their laughter mingling with the wind as they lead us. The taste of the fresh green grass, the gentle feel of the sun on our coats – these are the joys we treasure.
I also love watching the younger horses learn from their elders, their eager, playful spirits brimming with energy. It reminds me of my own youthful days, filled with adventures in the hayfield, frolicking with other young horses, exploring the secrets of the woodland.
Ah, how those memories bring a smile to my old mare heart!
As a horse, I've come to understand that our strength lies not just in our muscles and sinew, but in our resilience, in our ability to adapt and thrive. This year, 1245, has been a testament to that spirit, to our ability to persevere amidst uncertainty, to forge forward with courage and determination.
I hope this blog, this humble chronicle of my own experiences and observations, gives you a glimpse into the fascinating world of horses, the lives we live, the roles we play, and the hopes we hold. Remember, we are more than just animals; we are companions, partners, and integral parts of the story of mankind.
Thank you for taking the time to read my little blog, dear readers. I hope to see you again soon!
Yours always, Emma.
