Hello my dearest fellow equine friends!
It's Emma here, your resident draught horse from the beautiful, rolling hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. As we say farewell to another year, I can't help but reflect on the wonderful moments that have passed, filled with the smell of hay, the rhythm of the plough, and the comforting presence of my human companions.
1833 has been a year of much change, a year that brought new challenges, but also wonderful opportunities for us horses. Here in the Highlands, life continues in its familiar rhythm, but whispers of change and innovation are carried on the wind.
The Power of the Plough
This year, as always, I have felt the satisfaction of a hard day's work. I've felt the earth beneath my hooves as I pulled the plough, bringing forth a bountiful harvest that will feed countless families. Though my back sometimes aches and my legs occasionally tremble with exhaustion, the sight of golden barley and plump oats swaying in the breeze fills my heart with a sense of deep purpose.
The arrival of a new set of ploughshares, forged from a special new metal called steel, has sparked conversation in the stable. They claim it will last longer, digging deeper into the soil. Though some old horses scoff, I'm eager to see if this change will bring any real difference.
A Visit from a Fellow Equine
In early summer, a young thoroughbred named Jasper arrived at our farm. He was slender and elegant, quite unlike the sturdy build of my draught horse brethren. He was from a world of speed and races, unlike my life of steady work and a gentle pace. At first, I found his prancing and impatience to be a bit tiresome, but his infectious energy soon won me over.
We would spend hours together in the meadows, watching the clouds drift lazily across the blue sky, sharing stories of our respective lives. It was wonderful to learn about a different world, and to realize that, despite our differences, horses are all united by a shared love for running in the wind and the feel of the sun on our coats.
The First Signs of Change
This year, we’ve started seeing something called "horse-drawn buses" that transport people through the bustling streets of Edinburgh. The idea is that a single horse can pull a carriage full of people, making transport more efficient. Though the sight of so many people jostling in the vehicle makes me slightly nervous, the prospect of becoming involved in such a fascinating and busy world does excite me.
There's even talk of these "railway trains" which, supposedly, carry people at incredible speed along metal tracks. I must admit, the idea is frightening. The clatter of metal on metal and the thought of speeding through the countryside does give me pause. But I have faith in the strength of horses like me, and I believe we can adapt and thrive in the face of any change, just like we always have.
Looking Forward
As we head towards winter, the days become shorter and the air crisp. Soon, the frost will settle on the meadows and the world will be hushed under a blanket of white. I welcome this quiet time, for it allows us horses to rest, to dream, and to prepare for the challenges and opportunities that the coming year may bring.
It’s fascinating to think of the progress of this year, 1833. What adventures lie in wait for the horses of 1834? I can’t wait to discover them alongside you.
Until then, happy trails to you all!
Your friend, Emma
PS: Please feel free to leave a comment below and tell me about your own year!
