Madison and I got back to the ranch about 4 p.m. today after a very long road trip. We left Spearfish, South Dakota, this morning about 7 a.m. Somehow the last leg is always the longest, you know? Alayne's been here by herself for 10 days, which is double the workload when one of us is gone. We've both done the solo duty several times, so we know what it's like to be by yourself. It's always a huge relief when the other one returns. Blind Goldie, who doesn't have the workload but always mopes when her pack isn't complete, was joyously happy when I walked into the house this afternoon.
I'm behind on blog posts but will get back into the swing of things this week.
In the meantime, I wanted to thank everyone who has diligently voted for the ranch in the Shelter Challenge. When I cast my last vote late yesterday evening from the hotel room in Spearfish, we were still in fourth place and thus on track for a $3,000 prize. Hopefully that will be our official spot when they announce results on Wednesday!

CONGRATS ON YOUR $3000 WIN IN THE SHELTER CHALLENGE. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK.
Posted by: FELICIA | April 21, 2010 at 10:47 AM
So glad you and Madison made it back to Montana and you are all together again. Soon everyone will be winding their way to New Hampshire and a wonderful life at the new RDR!
Posted by: Ann | April 20, 2010 at 11:33 PM
Glad You and Madison made it back to RDR-Montana safe, I agree with everyone else that Alayne and your furbabies were certainly happy to see you! Hoping you win the $3000 prize! Prayers as you continue with your cross country move!
Posted by: Doe George | April 20, 2010 at 07:52 PM
Happy to know you & Madison arrived home safe & sound. As much as we enjoy your blogs please don't give it a thought when you get behind due to all the extra things you are having to do associated w/ the move.
I know Goldie & Alayne were very happy the pack was complete & hope everyone had a restful night!
And, I bet Madison is filling in all the furry babies on what a wonderful place they will soon be living.
Posted by: Colleen & Sweet Kitty Erin | April 20, 2010 at 03:01 PM
Glad to hear you are back in Montana, safe and sound. Alayne, I don't know how you did it for 10 days alone! I have five spoiled fur bearing children and they are a handful! Bless you, bigtime! I voted every day and really hope everyone else came thru for Rolling Dog Ranch!!
Posted by: Kathleen Rivard | April 20, 2010 at 01:39 PM
Best wishes on winning the $3000 prize.
Posted by: Evelyn | April 20, 2010 at 12:12 PM
So glad your trip was safe and that you are home again! Fingers crossed and prayers sent for a good finish in the Challenge!!
Posted by: Linda Murphy | April 20, 2010 at 11:51 AM
Once again, it is strange to come on to vote and not have the link bring up the voting tab. Fingers crossed for tomorrow!
Posted by: Aliza | April 20, 2010 at 11:31 AM
Home sweet home -- glad you made it back safe and sound! Maybe you can get a little rest (even if just a little) before you jump back into those chores - and Alayne can get back to normal.
Posted by: Angela | April 20, 2010 at 11:13 AM
Glad your journey was safe both ways. I'm sure the full pack was wondering where you and Madison were. ; )
We hope our voting does reap a $3k prize for the ranch.
Good luck!
Posted by: boundforglory | April 20, 2010 at 09:55 AM
I know Alayne was so glad to see you! Still excited for your move.
New shelter contest starts May 17th! Let's redouble our efforts and give RDR some extra moving money!
Posted by: Lynne Parker | April 20, 2010 at 08:58 AM
Glad your home safe and sound but in the long run all of this will be well worth it!!!
Posted by: gayle | April 20, 2010 at 08:46 AM
Glad you are home safe...and don't worry about the blog...we will wait patiently!
Posted by: Debbie | April 20, 2010 at 07:41 AM
Amen to "Dee's Mom" comments--my thoughts exactly! I'm sure Alayne feels the same way 100 fold!!
Posted by: Shirley * James/Portland, OR | April 19, 2010 at 11:52 PM
Yahooo....you and Madison are home safe and sound....Goldie's world is now in order! Here's hoping the ranch will win a much deserved $3000 prize!
Posted by: Nina | April 19, 2010 at 09:55 PM
Strangely, I somehow feel the joy that surely abounds your home tonight. Enjoy the love!
Psst, Madison: don't gloat too much!
Posted by: Lynn (in Louisiana) | April 19, 2010 at 09:42 PM
We are so glad to hear you made it back safe and sound. I'm sure everyone will sleep better tonight.
Posted by: Dee's Mom | April 19, 2010 at 08:49 PM