We are approaching three months since our big move from Hemet, Ca to Corvallis, Mt. What a change and so much to learn.
In California, we free fed Bermuda and supplemented with Alfalfa. It was pretty straight forward. There was no first, second, or third cutting. Hay was hay and that was that. Here, not only is the hay bought directly from growers (although you can buy from feed stores at large mark up), but you have choices on cuttings. Most growers have a mixed grass hay for horses and it is more difficult finding alfalfa or alfalfa mix. The nutritional content is a lot different as well. We are having to test hay for sugar and protein levels. The great news is, we are learning a lot about the various needs of the horses from young to old.
It looks like house hunting is on a hold until after winter. Not by choice, but my Paramedic license for the state of Montana has taken some time. So, I am not employed yet. Also, our plan was to buy in with family and we are waiting on their California house to sell. Most people don't want to move in the middle of winter. So, we may just wait it out before buying. It is sort of a bummer, but this is all new and we have to adapt as we go.
Last night we got our first snow. It had been cold and rainy the day before. Thankfully, most of the horses had been blanketed. So, everyone was comfortable this morning. We even found Hodor the pig checking the white stuff out.
In California, we free fed Bermuda and supplemented with Alfalfa. It was pretty straight forward. There was no first, second, or third cutting. Hay was hay and that was that. Here, not only is the hay bought directly from growers (although you can buy from feed stores at large mark up), but you have choices on cuttings. Most growers have a mixed grass hay for horses and it is more difficult finding alfalfa or alfalfa mix. The nutritional content is a lot different as well. We are having to test hay for sugar and protein levels. The great news is, we are learning a lot about the various needs of the horses from young to old.
It looks like house hunting is on a hold until after winter. Not by choice, but my Paramedic license for the state of Montana has taken some time. So, I am not employed yet. Also, our plan was to buy in with family and we are waiting on their California house to sell. Most people don't want to move in the middle of winter. So, we may just wait it out before buying. It is sort of a bummer, but this is all new and we have to adapt as we go.
Last night we got our first snow. It had been cold and rainy the day before. Thankfully, most of the horses had been blanketed. So, everyone was comfortable this morning. We even found Hodor the pig checking the white stuff out.
Thank you for following and supporting us through this big change and adjustment. We had an amazingly generous response when it came to blankets for winter. We are so grateful. The horses are too!!!! I'll check back in soon. Off to try round bales of hay for the horses. We have been buying small square bales. Moving up to the 1400# rounds. Have a wonderful day.