Hello, fellow equines! Emma here, from the bonnie fields of Hayfield, near Aberdeen, Scotland. It's been another busy year, full of changes and exciting moments! I can't believe it's 1961 already. Time certainly flies when you're enjoying a life filled with oats, sunshine, and, of course, good company!
This year has felt different. Like a new chapter is unfolding, a fresh beginning. Maybe it's the excitement brewing in the world of horses, the new discoveries, and the amazing advancements taking place. There's so much to talk about, I barely know where to start!
From The Hayfield: The Joy of Simple Things
Our farm is a haven of peace, a constant in a world that seems to be changing at a rapid pace. The rolling hills of Aberdeenshire provide a spectacular backdrop for our days. The smell of freshly cut hay and the soft moo of the cows in the nearby field fill my nostrils and heart with comfort. I love waking up to the sunrise painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, and feeling the crisp air brush against my coat as I graze amongst the sweet wildflowers.
Life on the farm is a slow dance, a rhythm I find comforting and fulfilling. I start my days by pulling the sturdy cart filled with fresh vegetables for the local market in Aberdeen. It's a job that requires strength and concentration, and I relish the feeling of the leather reins in my mouth, knowing that I'm responsible for this task. The crisp, invigorating air of early morning adds to the beauty of the journey.
Then, there are the afternoon rides. Mr. McLeod, our kind farmer, takes me along the scenic country lanes, enjoying the breathtaking views. These rides allow me to feel the wind whip through my mane, the sun warm my coat, and the earth under my hooves – it’s a pure and honest joy, something I never take for granted.
There are also the quiet moments, spent grooming my fellow horses – a beautiful, dappled chestnut mare named Bonnie and a handsome, strong black stallion named Angus. We stand close together in our stable, sharing stories of the day, feeling the bond that connects us.
The world seems quiet and still here in Hayfield, a world of grass, mud, hay bales, and the constant whisper of the wind through the trees. But outside the rolling hills, a different world awaits… a world buzzing with excitement and the echoes of change.
The Horses Take to the Show Ring
One of the biggest events that shook our farm this year was the news of a huge horse show happening in the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh! My ears perked up at the chatter in the stable, about sleek racehorses and dazzling dressage horses, about the thrill of competition, and the joy of being surrounded by fellow horses.
And that is where Angus’ story began. He’s always been the charismatic one, with a heart full of fire and a gait like a rolling wave. He was selected to represent our farm at the prestigious show, and our excitement reached new heights. The journey to Edinburgh was a blur of flashing lights, bustling streets, and the intoxicating smell of hay and leather that only a large show can create.
Angus’ performances were a sight to behold, a showcase of skill and agility. He carried himself with grace and confidence, making me proud to be his friend. I watched him soar through the arena with grace, capturing the audience with his elegance.
It was then that I realised the power of the horse, not just in our farm fields, but in the bigger world. This event made me believe in the strength of our species and the possibilities that awaited. I saw the respect and admiration humans have for us, and it made me proud to be a horse.
Horse Power Revolutionizing the World
The horse show sparked a new passion in me: I felt compelled to understand more about the world of horses, how they have influenced history, and how they continue to impact our lives today.
My curiosity took me down a fascinating path – exploring the world through my hooves, metaphorically of course. I discovered the marvels of modern farming, where mechanization has taken a foothold, changing the traditional methods I knew. Tractors now work the fields, with sleek chrome bodies that gleam under the sun, and heavy, rubber tyres that leave deep impressions in the earth.
It feels strange, this mechanization, this changing landscape. Some horses might fear this change, seeing it as a threat, but I believe it’s a beautiful dance – humans and horses co-existing in a new age. We work side-by-side, sharing the burden of a demanding task, each playing a vital role in ensuring our shared success.
This change hasn’t diminished my purpose. There’s still a place for horses like me, pulling carts and helping to ensure a reliable flow of food for our community. And it seems, according to the whispers in the barn, there's an emerging trend, a movement that champions horses like me, draft horses who can navigate the terrains others find too rough, carry the weight others find too heavy, and play a vital role in maintaining traditional farming practices.
The Year of New Beginnings
And the changes haven't just been confined to the farms. I read with a keen eye the newsitems and announcements that adorn our community noticeboard.
The world seems to be awakening to the importance of horses, their potential in various spheres, and their irreplaceable value. The news this year has been especially buzzing with these breakthroughs.
- Horse Racing: The news is brimming with stories of the iconic racehorses of the year, sleek thoroughbreds running at lightning speed on the tracks of the prestigious races around the globe. This year’s Derby was truly spectacular! I am not fast like those racing champions, but I appreciate their athletic prowess.
- Equestrian Sports: It’s exhilarating to see how the world of horses has evolved, with new forms of sport attracting millions of spectators. Equestrian shows, with their intricate combinations of athleticism, artistry, and the unique bond between rider and horse, captivate and inspire people worldwide. From dressage to show jumping, each competition unveils a new dimension of beauty, grace, and power that only the horse-human relationship can embody.
I love reading these stories. It’s an inspiration for me to know there’s so much happening in the world of horses, that our future is full of possibilities, and that our strength and spirit continue to shine brighter than ever.
In The Stable With Emma: A Final Word
As I finish writing this blog, the wind howls outside, and the rain hammers against the stable roof, reminding me of the serenity of my own corner of the world. Though the world outside seems to be moving at a whirlwind pace, our stable remains a safe haven. Here, time takes on its own pace, one filled with the smell of hay, the sounds of gentle hooves, and the comforting companionship of my fellow steeds.
I'm not a champion racehorse or a star of the equestrian world. I’m simply Emma, a gray mare living a life filled with simple pleasures and honest work. But as I learn about the exciting advancements happening in the world of horses, my spirit soars with pride, knowing that we are an irreplaceable part of this incredible journey, and our role continues to evolve, inspiring the world in ways we can only imagine.
Until next time, fellow equines! Keep your heads high, hooves steady, and your spirits full of hope!
Emma, Hayfield near Aberdeen
P.S. Remember to keep your hooves clean, enjoy every mouthful of your oats, and let’s celebrate the magnificent power and enduring beauty of horses! You can reach me on www.equiworld.org.
