Welcome to my humble blog, fellow equines and equine enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your grey mare with the snow-white mane and tail, writing from the heart of Hayfield, nestled near the grand Aberdeen. Today, we’re galloping back in time to 1387, a year filled with thrilling discoveries and fascinating glimpses into the lives of our kind.
Now, let's be honest, 1387 was a bit of a whirlwind, especially for horses in our part of the world. War was brewing, you see, with the Scots and English butting heads. While most horses like me stayed grounded in the fields and worked diligently for our farmers, the smell of battle was in the air, a constant reminder that times could shift in a blink of an eye.
Being a draught horse, I felt the responsibility of hard work coursing through my veins. I carried heavy burdens for the local farmers, helping them till the soil and hauling wagons loaded with precious harvests. Imagine, dear readers, the satisfying clomp of hooves on cobblestone roads, the crisp air filling our lungs, the feel of the harness urging us onward. A simple yet rewarding life, wouldn't you agree?
The year was bustling with exciting news too. King Richard II of England, young and determined, was busy consolidating his power, while in Scotland, King Robert II held sway. Despite the tense political climate, things were comparatively peaceful here in the Highlands. That is, if you don’t count the odd badger sighting in the fields (they are fearsome creatures, my dear readers, a stark contrast to their cute and cuddly portrayal in human stories).
We horses are natural connoisseurs of gossip, and let me tell you, the rumour mill was in full swing this year. Whispers of new saddles and harnesses, even better than our traditional ones, flew through the air like thistledown in the breeze. Imagine a padded saddle that makes your ride a dream or a harness that makes heavy work a little less taxing!
The most fascinating tidbit, however, concerned our fellow equines in France. The year 1387 marked the arrival of the noble chevauchee, a type of military campaign using horseback riders in droves. You can imagine the awe these fierce warriors elicited with their powerful steeds!
Meanwhile, closer to home, the importance of horses in warfare was never more apparent. The knights, brave souls who charged on horseback, were highly valued in the days before gunpowder and mass-produced firearms. Even now, the sight of a skilled knight atop his charger is enough to send a shiver down your spine.
Let's talk about the finer things in life, shall we? Horses, in particular, are fond of a good graze, aren't we? The lush meadows and rolling fields of Scotland provided us with an abundance of sweet grass, a delight for our sensitive noses. Did I mention my particular fondness for juicy dandelions? Oh, the satisfaction!
And, of course, no blog post is complete without mentioning our human companions. They were skilled riders, resourceful farmers, and diligent caretakers of their horses. They treated us with respect and understood our needs. A good feed, a soothing rub down after a hard day, and, most importantly, a warm stable - that was a human's recipe for a happy horse.
As I stand here in the year 2023, looking back on 1387 through the haze of history, I see a reflection of my own journey. A journey that reflects the strength, endurance, and spirit that our kind has always embodied. From hauling crops and transporting goods to carrying our knights into battle, we are the faithful companions who move the world.
Even today, horses play vital roles in society, from providing therapy and emotional support to bringing joy to countless children and adults. While our lives may be quite different from those of our ancestors, the enduring spirit of the horse shines bright.
Remember, dear readers, no matter what life throws your way, stand tall, stay strong, and always have a heart filled with joy! Until next time, may your oats be sweet and your pasture green.
Yours always,
Emma
