Blog Post No. 1697
Written by Emma, Grey Draught Mare, Hayfield, Scotland
Neigh, everyone!
This year feels like it's already whizzed past, much like a greyhound chasing a hare across a Highland moor! I'm Emma, a Grey Draught mare with a snow-white mane and tail, living a full life in Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland.
It's always a joy to reflect on the year, even if I only know what happens around our farm, in Aberdeen, and what tales my dear friend Maggie, a lively bay mare with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, brings from the neighbouring farms and villages.
The Horses of Hayfield
We're busy on our farm. It's always a delightful, if slightly tiring, rush here. Haymaking, pulling ploughs and harrows, and even the odd bit of hauling goods to Aberdeen Market. It’s such a joy to feel the wind through my mane and tail, to feel the weight of the earth against my strong back, and to smell the fresh, crisp air as I work alongside my fellow farm horses. We may have our individual jobs but we work as a team – that's the key to a happy working life, you know!
The farmer, Mr. Angus, is a good man and treats us well. He knows every one of us by name and always has kind words for us. He understands the horses need a good feed of oats and hay, fresh water and, importantly, plenty of time in the paddock for grazing and socializing with our kind. I love to graze with the young foals. They always have such fun. It’s good to teach them how to roll in the lush green fields.
The Wider World of Horses
Speaking of socializing, it's lovely catching up with Maggie, a mare who's travelled a bit more than me. She recently came from the highlands and brought some exciting news.
Did you know there are plans for new roads throughout Scotland and England? More and more roads mean more horses being used, which is a good thing! It keeps all of us in work and helps people travel farther and faster than ever before! And with that news, we expect new developments in horse transportation.
Maggie also brought news from Aberdeen Market. Horses of all breeds – from strong Clydesdales to fleet-footed Welsh ponies – are coming in to be traded, sold, or purchased by breeders. It's quite a sight and a reminder of our diversity. It also brings the different skills each horse breed offers to the fore.
She told me there's great demand for stallions like those in our draught family! Strong for farming, able to carry weight – we truly are an asset! We are also a reliable companion on many farms.
What’s Happening Outside Scotland?
Maggie shared more international news about horses. It seems the European War between the French and the Spanish is still raging on! I hear they use horses for everything – war, transport, messengers. It all makes my hooves tap with unease. I’m so glad we are far away in our peaceful Hayfield. Maggie also says many people on the Continent are riding for pleasure. It sounds exciting, not like the hard work we do, but maybe one day… I will be able to enjoy such leisurely riding, perhaps!
My Reflections on 1697
Overall, it’s been a good year for our world of horses. We have jobs, our foals are learning and growing and, best of all, there are a lot of stories, many from our kind, to share!
Do share your horse stories with us. I’d love to hear what’s going on in your world!
Neigh for now! Emma
www.equiworld.org
