Equiworld Blog: #411 - 0411: A Horse's Tale from Hayfield
Hello fellow equine enthusiasts! Emma here, a twenty-year-old Grey Draught mare with a flowing white mane and tail. You can find me at the stables in Hayfield, a beautiful village tucked near Aberdeen in Scotland. It’s a chilly day here, the air crisp and sharp as I stand in the sunshine, watching the farmer tend to his sheep.
Today, I'm going to talk about something a bit special: history! You see, I've always loved hearing about what life was like for horses throughout the centuries. And since it’s 0411, I thought it only fitting to share with you what life is like here in this time, in this year, for a horse like me. Buckle up!
A Day in the Life of Emma the Grey Draught
Life for a horse like me in 0411 is largely about work. We are vital to the farming community, a strong pair of hands for every task from tilling the land to transporting goods. I rise with the sun each day, a harmonious rhythm that never gets old. First, the delicious warm oats, a real treat for a hard-working horse like myself. Then, it’s off to my harness, which feels familiar and secure, like a warm hug. I love the way the leather chafes softly against my skin, a comforting reminder that I have a job to do, a purpose.
We pull carts, haul heavy loads, and I enjoy every moment of it. I especially love ploughing, feeling the cool, earthy soil under my hooves, the furrow forming beautifully before me, a testament to our tireless efforts. We even pull wooden carts along rugged stone roads, transporting people and supplies to markets and distant villages. It's tough work, but we horses are tough, and strong, and the farmers are grateful. They know we are their lifeblood, and they treat us kindly, with respect, and affection.
Beyond the Fields
While farming is a key part of life for most horses like myself, it's not the only thing! Horses are used in other ways too, some more grand than others. In large, noble houses, you’ll find horses like me pulling carriages, transporting their rich occupants with style and speed, across wide moors and rolling hills. Sometimes, I get to meet horses like them in the market square when we come into town for supplies, and we chat amongst ourselves, sharing news and gossip! They speak of tournaments and feasts, and tell tales of brave knights galloping through fields, but our lives, the lives of horses like me, are humble, honest work that contributes to the world.
An Era of Expansion and Exploration
And the world is changing, my friends! A wave of progress is rippling across our land. New roads are being built, and the Romans are constantly spreading out their reach. From what we hear in the marketplace, it's an age of exploration and expansion. Perhaps this is why the use of horses is more important than ever before!
We carry soldiers into battle and bring supplies to armies on the move. Our role has changed throughout history, evolving from hunting and travel to war, farming, and trade, and we horses seem to be always needed for it all. We are indeed, a powerful force, capable of amazing things.
Horse Talk: Training, Care, and Beyond
Let’s delve into some specifics about our lives! You know, here in Hayfield, we horses have our own kind of horse-to-horse communication network. We gather at the water trough at the end of the day, sharing news of our day, gossip about the horses on neighbouring farms, and our latest insights into the best ways to keep a good mane! One thing we all share in common: our shared love for gentle training. Horses in this day are trained with care and kindness.
We know that strong leadership makes for a willing worker, and so our human companions have a genuine bond with us. They use gentle pressure and positive reinforcement to teach us. This helps us develop our abilities and build strong, harmonious partnerships that are the bedrock of our success!
And there’s something more: we horses, we take great pride in our physical wellbeing. The farmers, especially in Hayfield, take this seriously. Our stable is always clean and well-lit, and we have access to clean, fresh water. The farmers also take the time to groom our coats, using a wooden brush to keep our mane and tail tangle-free, and ensure our hoofs are kept strong. I can tell you that it feels like a warm hug. All this care makes us feel loved and appreciated.
A Final Word for Equiworld
I hope this little glimpse into my life in 0411 has entertained you, my fellow equines! It is a beautiful, and exciting time to be a horse! The world is opening up, and our strength and spirit play a key role in that progress! I, for one, look forward to the future with enthusiasm, and a happy heart! And always, always, remember to take good care of yourself and your horse family.
Until next time!
Emma