My Dearest Fellow Equines,
Greetings from my humble abode in Hayfield, a village nestled amidst the rolling hills near Aberdeen. It's a crisp autumn morning, the air fresh and clean, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth. As I munch contentedly on my breakfast of oats, I find myself reflecting on the year just passed, 1811. What a whirlwind of experiences it has been!
This is my first year writing for EquiWorld.org, and I am thrilled to share my own perspective on life as a grey draught mare in 1811. You see, even we horses have a history, a tapestry woven from hard work, unwavering dedication, and moments of pure joy. And for a grey mare like me, life in 1811 has been a rich tapestry indeed.
As many of you know, we grey horses are known for our calm demeanor and sturdy build. We're the trusty workhorses, the steady hands that keep the world moving. And what a busy year 1811 has been! We've been hauling heavy loads of barley from the fields, ploughing fields for the next year's crops, pulling carriages for the gentry, and even transporting goods across the countryside.
One particularly memorable day this spring, I found myself harnessed to a large cart filled with fresh vegetables from the local market. Our journey took us along winding roads, through quaint villages and past bustling towns. I must confess, it was rather exhilarating to feel the wind in my mane as we trotted briskly, the clatter of hooves and the rumble of wheels echoing through the countryside. We even met a fellow draught mare on the road, a handsome black horse named "Coal." It's surprising how many stories these long journeys hold - conversations with other horses, glimpses of different worlds, the ever-changing panorama of nature.
My journey wasn't all work and no play, though. We draught horses are known for our strength and resilience, but also for our love of freedom. The annual summer solstice celebration at Hayfield was a joy. I joined hundreds of horses and riders in the fields, prancing under the radiant sun. Laughter and cheers filled the air as we raced across the fields, a whirlwind of mane and hooves. It felt good to let loose and celebrate the year's bounty alongside my fellow equines.
This past year has taught me a lot. The gentle patter of rain, the crackling of winter fires, the joy of sharing a carrot with a friend, all make life truly fulfilling.
I believe it's important to share my experience with you, my equine brethren, because even though we live our lives in a quiet, hardworking way, our role in the world is invaluable. We connect people to each other, to their land, and to the beauty of our shared world.
While some may think our lives are simple, there's a richness and depth to the life of a draught mare that can only be appreciated through firsthand experience. There's an unspoken connection between us, a silent understanding of mutual need and mutual love. It's in the shared sweat and exhaustion after a long day's work, the quiet moments spent grazing in the meadows, the camaraderie felt while pulling the heavy cart, and the shared sense of belonging within the community of horses.
But what has 1811 been like for the world beyond Hayfield, beyond the familiar fields and stables of my daily life? Let's peek at some of the important horse-related events that happened in this year across the world:
*In the realm of breeding, *The English Thoroughbred, that powerful breed born for racing, has been further perfected through carefully-curated breeding programs. A new star has emerged - a legendary racehorse called "Doncaster." This stunning creature has captured the attention of the entire nation with his exceptional speed and graceful form. It's an exciting time for thoroughbred racing.
*Across the Atlantic, * the war-torn nation of the United States faces a grave conflict with Britain. This war is being fought on land, on water, and even on horseback! Soldiers from both sides are mounted on sturdy American horses, their hooves beating the earth in a tumultuous dance of battle. It saddens me to think of these brave animals caught in the crossfire, and I pray for peace on both sides of the ocean.
Across the globe in the vast expanse of Asia, The mighty Indian elephant continues to be an integral part of society and military, but with a growing appreciation for the horse, especially the famed Turkoman and the elegant Arabian steeds, these magnificent animals are starting to make their mark in the region. The graceful Arabian, with its elegant lines and refined nature, has made a particular mark on society.
1811 is proving to be a time of great change for the world, and even within our quiet, horse-filled realm. But change can bring growth, and growth brings exciting opportunities. I can only look forward with anticipation and wonder what adventures the new year will bring!
Stay safe, dear fellow equines, and keep those hooves strong.
Yours in hay and sunshine,
Emma the Grey
