Hello my dear fellow equines, and welcome to another post from Emma!
It’s a beautiful morning here in Hayfield, the air crisp and filled with the sweet scent of hay and the sound of the river tumbling over its rocky bed. It's moments like these, with the sun painting the Scottish sky with its golden hues, that I truly feel the blessings of this life. Though, as you know, the life of a draught horse isn't always sunshine and meadows.
As I've mentioned before, this blog is all about sharing our equine history, a journey that is deeply connected to the story of humanity. So today, we'll delve into 1422, a year marked by both peaceful progress and moments of unease.
A Year of Transition:
The world around me feels somewhat in flux, as if a gentle shift is occurring, moving us towards an unknown but hopefully promising future. It seems that, despite the war raging in France (a far-off land I have only heard whispered about), there's a general sense of cautious optimism across these Scottish hills.
Here in the North, we're busy with our usual tasks - tilling the fields, pulling carts loaded with supplies, and helping the locals with their daily routines. These duties are woven into the fabric of my life, just as the rhythm of the seasons guides the changing landscape.
But there's a new wind blowing, a sense of quiet determination that feels unlike anything before. People are talking about progress, of exploration and advancement. You see, there's been talk of a young, brilliant mind - King James I - taking the reins of Scotland. He speaks of justice and of making things better, which sparks a flicker of hope in many hearts.
New Worlds and Journeys:
A few days ago, a traveler came through Hayfield, a young man with tales of the furthest reaches of the world. He spoke of the Iberian peninsula and its stunning horses, bred for agility and strength. He told of how these magnificent steeds helped transport the riches of the world, bringing spices from the East and new ideas from every corner of the globe.
The journey was long and arduous, the man explained, a testament to the power and resilience of these horses. His stories ignited a spark within me, a yearning to travel beyond these rolling hills, to experience new sights and embrace the wonders that lay beyond my own familiar meadows.
A Love for Work:
Of course, even the most adventurous horse can appreciate a day of steady work. We, the draught horses, are the backbone of this land, and I find a certain peace in our duties. The feel of the harness against my strong, powerful neck, the rhythmic sway of my stride, the pull of the plow – it's all familiar, grounding, and strangely fulfilling.
We, the gentle giants, have a sense of purpose here, helping to ensure the continued survival and prosperity of the people we serve.
The Gift of Connection:
And who are these people, these humans who rely on us? I know my blacksmith, Duncan, a kind and hardworking man with hands that are both rough and gentle. I know the farmer's family, their children often braiding my mane with bright ribbons and feeding me delicious apples. And then, of course, there is my human friend, Fiona, a young woman who takes me on walks through the fields. Her laugh is light as a bird's song, and her touch, soft as a feather, brings a sense of joy to my heart.
We forge a special bond, the kind that only true companions can share. This connection is something truly beautiful, something worth cherishing. We help each other, these humans and we, the horses, bridging the gap between the earthly and the spiritual.
A Quiet Evening:
The sun dips low, casting long shadows across the fields, and the world seems to settle into a peaceful slumber. The birds are hushed, the cattle are gathered close, and even the river flows with a softer, more calming rhythm.
As I lie in my stall, chewing on my hay and reflecting on the day, I realize the year 1422 has been filled with moments both grand and mundane, both challenging and comforting.
In these changing times, it’s the quiet, enduring strength of these horses, the silent work of the farm and field, that continues to form the bedrock of society. We may not be at the forefront of great battles, but our tireless service continues to bring peace and prosperity to the land, and that, I believe, is something truly valuable.
Remember, dear readers, let's continue to celebrate the incredible power and beauty of horses. Our legacy extends through centuries, and our connection with humanity continues to unfold. Here’s to the future and all the exciting adventures it holds!
**Yours truly,
Emma**
