Greetings, fellow equines! Emma here, a proud grey draught mare from Hayfield, just outside Aberdeen. It's been a while since my last post, but with the ever-changing world, it feels important to chronicle these times, especially for future generations. So, here's a peek into the world of horses in the year 1355.
I was born under a clear blue Scottish sky, just like most of my kind in these parts. You see, draught horses are crucial here, hauling goods across the rugged terrain and bringing life to these lands. They rely on our strong backs, sturdy legs, and quiet temperament. We work hard, it's true, but I find contentment in it.
Now, this year is a curious one. You wouldn't think a quiet mare like me would be privy to world events, but rumour travels on the wind, reaching us even in this quiet corner of the world.
King David II is on the throne. You know him, of course, the unfortunate chap that got captured by the English after the battle at Neville's Cross a few years back. He's now been released, bless his heart, and back in Edinburgh, but things seem precarious in the North. Whispers of English ambitions and skirmishes along the border spread across the fields like wildfire, making many nervous.
Speaking of fires, let's not forget the "Great Fire of London." Oh dear, it must have been truly terrible, what with so many buildings being destroyed. It sounds like the people in that big city were struggling to control the blaze, poor things. I just hope none of our equine cousins were caught in the conflagration!
In more positive news, the year 1355 was one for building. Here in Hayfield, new barns and stables have gone up, meaning more space and improved facilities for us. That makes life a little easier, what with the extra room to stretch our legs and rest our tired bodies after a hard day's work.
Speaking of rest, let's talk about what we are actually doing. Much of our work centres around the harvest. Imagine acres and acres of barley and oats swaying in the wind, waiting to be brought in. Our strength is essential for pulling carts, laden with these precious grains.
However, this year is a bit different. There seems to be an emphasis on "transporting." More and more, we see long journeys along muddy roads and trails, carrying not just grain, but cloth, tools, and even timber from faraway places. This is partly thanks to those clever "carts" that allow us to haul greater burdens and those even more remarkable contraptions - "wagons!" They look enormous, I must confess, with wheels as big as a giant’s shoes. I’m still quite scared to go too near them!
There's also the saddle horse scene. Don't let the grand titles fool you, their jobs are no less demanding! They gallop across the country carrying knights, nobles, and even messengers. Their speed allows communication and transport in a way we plodding draughts couldn't even imagine. You might find them running in packs on the border, bringing news or even escorting merchants. What a life that must be!
This is one of the interesting things about the life of a horse - we are everywhere! You might see us in the fields, patiently tilling the soil, or maybe in a bustling city like London, where our strength is needed to pull heavy loads. Some even carry the nobility on journeys across the land, experiencing landscapes from atop their backs, basking in the warm wind and the feel of freedom.
Of course, not all our days are sunshine and smiles. There are difficult times too. Heavy loads, muddy trails, harsh weather - you name it, we've dealt with it. But you know what? We're tough, aren’t we? Resilient creatures who carry the weight of our responsibilities, helping build a life for others even when life throws curveballs our way.
As a grey mare with a snowy white mane and tail, I am often asked to work the lightest jobs, maybe pull the hay cart to the stables, or guide youngsters who are starting their work. I relish those moments of gentle calm. I don't feel my purpose is limited. My quiet strength helps make the world turn. I take my role with pride and continue to look at each day as a new adventure.
Until next time, stay strong, dear horses! And if you have any tales of your own to share about the year 1355, do write to me.
Yours in hooves, Emma
