Hello everyone!
It’s Emma here, your trusty guide to all things equine. I’m a twenty-year-old Grey Draught mare with a white mane and tail. As you can probably tell from my Scottish accent, I call Hayfield near Aberdeen my home. I’ve been lucky enough to experience life in the heart of Scotland, a land that’s always held a special place for us horses. And you know what, life for us isn’t too bad in 1582!
Today, I wanted to share my thoughts on what’s happening in the equine world this year. 1582 is a bit of a big one. Think about it, the calendar just changed! We’ve moved away from the old Julian calendar to the Gregorian, which means our beloved Queen Elizabeth I, yes that Queen Elizabeth I, now has a new way to mark her days.
Anyway, back to the horses!
This year feels particularly blessed, both for us and the humans who share the world with us. We have had bountiful harvests, with plump oats, hay and barley lining our stalls. Our human companions are looking happy and strong, their spirits high after the generous gifts Mother Nature has given them.
One thing that continues to amaze me about these humans is their insatiable desire to travel! And, thankfully, horses like me get to play a big part in that. The roads are alive with travellers. There’s always a flurry of activity at the local inns, with humans coming and going. Sometimes they are traders, bearing treasures from far and wide – spices, silk, exotic fabrics – oh, how they excite the humans! Others are soldiers, and while I'm grateful to never have to endure the noise and dangers of a battlefield, I feel a strong sense of respect for their bravery.
The horses themselves are looking in fine shape. We have new recruits joining our ranks, young, sturdy creatures just beginning their lives of service. They are so eager to learn and to help – just like me when I was younger! They’re already being trained, getting used to the reins, the saddle, and the humans guiding their steps. It’s beautiful to witness their dedication.
As I get older, my roles are becoming a little different. My strength, resilience and experience make me well-suited for heavy work, hauling carts loaded with crops and materials for our local villages. My human companions trust me to deliver things safely, even the most fragile treasures, and it feels incredibly rewarding.
Being a work horse, however, doesn't mean a life devoid of pleasure. My days aren't just about work and toil. I do enjoy moments of pure joy. When the weather permits, we are often out on the hills and open meadows, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the vibrant sights. The fields are alive with vibrant greens and splashes of bright wildflowers.
Royal Connections
Let's take a moment to discuss our Queen. As a Grey Draught horse myself, I have a soft spot for these mighty creatures. Well, who doesn't! Their majestic size and strength is what makes them such excellent performers in heavy carting, and they make up a substantial portion of the Royal Stables! These big-hearted giants have the Queen’s favour, and that's because they embody strength and loyalty, a perfect reflection of Her Majesty's reign. The Queen, even as a woman, has made an incredible impact in the world of horses! It’s truly a proud time for us.
Horses in the World
We may be tucked away in Scotland, but it's amazing how the world of horses feels so interconnected! Word travels through travellers, whispering tales about happenings in faraway places. We learn about the famous Andalusian horses in Spain, revered for their elegant grace and beauty, trained for battle as well as for ceremonies.
Then there are the Barb horses from North Africa – sturdy and fast, these creatures are valued as racers and fighters, always ready for action.
This sense of interconnectedness, it's something to celebrate, really! We're part of a wider world, even if we sometimes don’t see the full picture ourselves.
Training and Techniques
Oh, you won’t believe what I just witnessed! A man passing through the village told a story of a riding academy where humans use methods no one has ever seen before. He called it ‘natural horsemanship,’ which he explained means understanding the horse's language and learning how to work with their natural instincts, instead of imposing commands. It all sounds a bit mystical, but fascinating all the same! Perhaps some new ways of training are going to enter the world – though my dear humans here would take some persuading, I am sure!
A Life of Gratitude
It’s so important for us, horses, to reflect and be grateful. Our humans give us shelter and nourishment, and in turn, we help them thrive and travel. We make life a little easier and a little more joyful for everyone, don't you think? We're more than just transportation. We are their loyal partners, sharing the world, side-by-side, with each other. I, for one, am glad to be part of it!
*Thank you for reading! I look forward to telling you about what next year holds for our horse world in 1583! *
*Until then, stay well, stay happy, and don’t forget, the world of horses is a beautiful, vast, and interconnected one. *
*Yours, Emma! *
