A Cozy Start to the New Year 2025

Hello, friends! Rupert here—your ever-loyal, sometimes-bored, always-sniffing-around Basset Hound at The Hideaway Ranch. Now that we’ve kissed 2024 goodbye and are officially into this shiny new year, I thought I’d take a moment to check in. First things first: The winter storm. Or, should I say, the non-storm?

We were all bracing for a snowpocalypse—blankets of white, maybe some sledding (I’m more of a “find a warm spot by the fire” kind of guy, but I hear the humans like to slide around on those little plastic contraptions). The forecast was predicting a proper snowstorm, but in the end, it was a bit of a letdown. Sure, we got a light dusting, but nowhere near the snow fort-worthy flakes that were promised.

Not that I mind. It’s still cozy here, and everything’s safe and sound. The humans were a little disappointed, but I’m not bothered. I’ve got plenty to keep me busy—except maybe, just maybe, the kitchen remodel at the Frontier Cabin. You see, I’ve been put in charge of overseeing this little project, and let me tell you, it’s taking forever. I’m a simple hound. I know how to supervise, I know how to nap, and I definitely know how to sniff out treats. But this whole “remodeling” business is a bit too complicated for my taste.

Now, back to you lovely guests! Whether you're here to relax, explore, or just escape the buzz of the world, I’ve got some good news: The Ranch is still as wonderful as ever. The snow might not have turned up in full force, but there’s still plenty to do around here....like sit in your hot tub, build a fire in your fire pit, watch the animals, hike on a trail and connect with family members.  We even have ping pong, puzzles and foosball at the Rec Room.

And speaking of “plenty to do,” there’s too much for me to handle. Like I said, I’ve been assigned the important task of overseeing the kitchen remodel at the Frontier Cabin. It was supposed to be a quick fix—just a little sprucing up—but I swear it’s taking forever. Honestly, I’m starting to think it’s a new cabin they’re building, not a remodel. The humans keep saying "just one more coat of paint" or "let me install these new cupboards," but when you’re a hound like me, you know that’s code for “I’m going to be here forever and I’ll need a nap while I wait.”

But hey, I’m not here to complain! I just wanted you all to know that the Hideaway Ranch is still very much open, and there’s still plenty of relaxation to be had. The human staff is taking care of the snow issue (or lack thereof) just fine. 

Until then, I’m off to sniff around some more (you never know where a treat might be hidden). See you soon, and don’t forget to give me a scratch behind the ears when you visit.
Happy New Year, folks!

Warmly,
Rupert, Head of Supervision (and Snack Duty)