Hauling across country alone plus dog

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From: maggie 
Email: magsmarston@juno.com

I am contemplating going to VA to pick up a horse that looks like 'a made for me model'.  I live in CO.

I have never hauled overnight but have hauled to rides/etc. before.  But for a four day haul I was thinking about taking a pen and stopping at KOA's that allow horses or other places on the way?  Has anyone done it in the winter regularly and can tell me about getting prepared.  My friends think I'm nuts not hire a shipping company.  I think I'm nuts if I don't get him myself as I could then control stopping, breaks, feeding etc. and health concerns etc. (Nothing against shippers I just have some concerns about hauling 24-26 hours straight.)  

Am I crazy? I know endurance folks do this all the time so I thought maybe someone could give me some insight.

Thanks.