Hello everyone, it’s Emma here, a 20-year-old grey draught mare, with a mane and tail as white as the driven snow, from Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. It's been quite a year here in 1851, and I thought it would be lovely to share some of the highlights with all of you, my fellow equine enthusiasts.
It's true, there's always a great deal going on in the world of horses. Just this past spring, the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society held their annual show here in Edinburgh. It was a flurry of hooves and ribbons, with every kind of horse imaginable strutting their stuff! Imagine, prize-winning Clydesdales with their mighty strides and elegant Arabians with their graceful necks and delicate features. My own kind, the hard-working draught horses, were there in force, pulling ploughs and carts, showing off our strength and stamina. It’s such a thrill to see so many fellow horses, each with their unique story and talents.
I have to confess, though, a rather large carriage of my own was being put to the test for this year's event, all decorated and glittering with brass and polished wood. I imagine it would have been a fine sight! My friends, George and Emily, the beautiful Bay geldings, also had the honour of pulling it in the grand parade. I wasn't quite able to participate this time as I had just foaled a healthy little colt called Albert. Oh, he’s quite the bundle of energy. So excited to see the world with those big brown eyes! It's the third foal I've given birth to, and it never ceases to fill me with pride and joy.
Another event which sparked excitement was the unveiling of The Great Exhibition, a monumental celebration of technological advancement and industry. Although it wasn’t just about horses, you can bet our kind were there in full force! All sorts of fascinating machines powered by our strong backs were presented. And I even heard whispers of an invention called a 'steam horse' – a terrifying concept, but truly fascinating! It made me wonder what kind of future this might usher in for horses. Perhaps someday we'll see steam-powered coaches instead of carriages, all whizzing through the countryside at lightning speed!
However, some say that a world with less reliance on horses might mean more space for pastures and less work for us. The thought of rolling green hills and grazing freely, instead of pulling heavy wagons or tilling fields, certainly holds its own kind of charm! It wouldn't surprise me if, in the next century, we see a more relaxed way of life for horses. We can dream, can’t we?
But enough of my pondering! Life, after all, continues as it always has. I, along with many other noble beasts, work hard on the farm, carrying bales of hay, transporting firewood and pulling plows. The rhythm of life continues, steady and sure, with each task bringing its own sense of accomplishment. Each sunrise paints the skies a magnificent crimson, each evening brings the gentle sigh of a cool breeze, and each step I take fills my soul with the warmth of contentment.
Just last week, we had the grandest wedding in Hayfield for Mr. McArthur's eldest daughter. I had the honour of carrying the wedding cake to the reception hall, all adorned with flowers and shimmering ribbons. Imagine my excitement to witness such a momentous occasion! I believe I even felt the sweet aroma of freshly baked scones in the air.
One particularly lovely morning, I discovered a sweet little wild foal caught in a thorny bush. After a bit of gentle encouragement from my human companions, I managed to gently nudge him back to safety. Imagine, that sweet little foal might have been stranded forever! Thankfully, we were able to help him get back to his mother, who was frantic with worry.
As I conclude this little entry in my journal, the golden rays of sunset paint the world in a glow of warmth. The sound of my colt, Albert, playfully neighing nearby brings a smile to my face.
This year has been full of new experiences and wonderful moments, a tapestry of emotions woven into the rich fabric of horsehood. Every sunrise brings a chance for new discoveries and adventures. As I rest my head on my bale of hay, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for this life, a life rich in purpose and love. Here’s to many more years filled with laughter, adventure and the joy of belonging.
Goodnight, friends. Until next time, happy trails!
Emma, from Hayfield, Scotland.
