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From Stroke to Song: Advocatus Diaboli Sings Again Just Weeks After Life-Changing Diagnosis

**From Off-Grid Peace to Hospital Alarms: Our Stroke Survival Journey**

Two weeks ago tonight, our peaceful, off-grid life in the New Mexico desert took a sudden and frightening turn. Brent—also known as Advocatus from our band *Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band*—began experiencing facial twitching. What we initially thought was a pinched nerve quickly spiraled into something far more serious.

Just a month earlier, Brent had lost movement in his arm and hand. Urgent Care diagnosed it as a pinched nerve and recommended an orthopedic visit. We booked the appointment, unaware that something much more dangerous was brewing beneath the surface.

The night we walked into the ER, everything changed. After hearing his symptoms, the medical team rushed Brent back immediately. That’s when real fear set in. X-rays and a CT scan revealed that Brent was having a stroke—and that the symptoms in his arm had actually been from a previous stroke, likely occurring around the time we visited Urgent Care weeks earlier.

A follow-up MRI confirmed it.

During his week-long hospital stay, Brent struggled with speech, and doctors were uncertain if he’d ever be able to sing again. For a man whose life revolves around music, it was a devastating possibility. But Brent is a fighter.

He underwent surgery to repair a clogged artery in his neck. Now he’s home, slowly regaining his strength. He’s singing again—his voice may not be at full strength yet, but it’s there. His arm is still affected, but we’re seeing small signs of progress. Only time will tell how much mobility he’ll recover.

These last two weeks have been filled with fear, uncertainty, and hard adjustments—but also love, resilience, and hope. I couldn’t be more proud of Brent. We are thankful for every day, every note sung, and every small step forward.

If you’ve followed our journey or are new to it, thank you for being here. Life off-grid isn’t always easy—but it’s real, it’s raw, and it’s ours.

http://www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com




#StrokeSurvivor, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #OffGridLife, #HealingThroughMusic, #DesertLiving, #MusicTherapy, #RecoveryJourney, #IndieBand, #InspirationalStory, #LifeAfterStroke, #GrimLeaferBand, #NewMexicoLife, #SupportLocalMusic, #StrokeAwareness, #NeverGiveUp

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Behind the Scenes: Animatronics Rehearsal & Off-Grid Life with Advocatus Diaboli

Rehearsal, Repairs, and Holiday Cheer: Advocatus Diaboli Prepares for the Holidays 

Yesterday’s rehearsal was productive, albeit a bit chilly at first. Our studio warmed up as the session went on, and we spent 3-4 hours refining our set. Rehearsal time varies depending on the complexity of the show—whether I’m using animatronics or relying on the “cheats” I designed as substitutes for them. 

This time, we rehearsed in the warmer part of the studio. The animatronics area, housed in another container, is sealed but not insulated, and after our last shows, we hadn’t set it up again. With colder weather, staying warm took priority. However, we’re setting up the animatronics area today or tomorrow to run a full rehearsal in preparation for Saturday’s holiday show. 

### Upcoming Show at Black Wall Arts and Production 

This Saturday, December 21, we’ll perform at Black Wall Arts and Production in Albuquerque. The show features three 40-minute sets, including new songs and festive holiday-only pieces. Doors open at 6 p.m., and you can expect a night of bawdy, humorous holiday cheer. 

### Tackling Off-Grid Challenges: Truck Repairs 

After rehearsal, Brent planned to work on our pickup truck with a neighbor. The truck’s heater hasn’t been working, making late-night drives home from shows a frosty 30-degree ordeal. We purchased a small plug-in window defroster for temporary relief, but it barely works. The neighbor suspected the heater core might be clogged or broken, and they planned to investigate further. 

Unfortunately, plans changed, and the neighbor canceled after we’d already left for haircuts. While Brent stayed behind, ready to tackle repairs, he ended up with some unexpected alone time—a rare treat in our busy lives. 

### A Holiday Show You Don’t Want to Miss 

Join us this Saturday for an unforgettable night of humor and holiday spirit. Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band are ready to bring some much-needed cheer with original songs and parodies that are sure to make you laugh. We hope to see you there! 

### Event Details 
– **Date:** Saturday, December 21 
– **Location:** Black Wall Arts and Production, Albuquerque 
– **Doors Open:** 6 p.m. 

Support local art, embrace the humor of the season, and enjoy a night of unique entertainment!


http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com

http://www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com

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#OffGridLiving, #HolidayShow, #Animatronics, #DesertLife, #LiveMusic, #SustainableLiving, #SimpleLiving, #TinyHouseLiving, #MusicRehearsal, #SelfSufficient, #BandLife, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #HolidayCheer, #RuralLife, #UniqueEntertainment

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4 Years Off-Grid: Our Journey to Plateau Hame de Colquhoun & Ka-Hoon Campground Begins

Four years ago today, our journey to a new way of life began as we arrived in Belen, New Mexico. That first night, we stayed at Walmart, our trailer loaded with everything we could fit for the next chapter. Early the next morning, we unloaded at a storage unit before making our way to the land that would become our home.

Living off-grid has always been our dream, and settling here felt like the start of something truly special. It’s not just about surviving but thriving in an environment that encourages connection with nature and self-sufficiency. Those first days were a whirlwind of setting up camp, exploring the terrain, and figuring out how to make the desert our home.

Since then, we’ve grown in ways we never imagined. Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center has become more than just a place for us—it’s a place where others can come to disconnect from the noise of the world and reconnect with themselves and nature. We’ve hosted countless events and provided a safe, judgment-free space for people to enjoy the beauty of the desert.

Our philosophy is simple: life is too short to fit into someone else’s box. We’ve built a community where people can embrace who they truly are, free from judgment. Here at Ka-Hoon, you’re welcome to be yourself, no matter what that looks like.

We’ve also experienced our fair share of trial and error along the way, learning that not everything works out as planned—but that’s okay. We’ve adapted, tried different approaches, and ultimately created a space where others can also step back, breathe, and try again. Whether it’s through themed camping nights or unique events, Ka-Hoon is a place to reset and find a new path forward.

As we look back on the past four years, we’re grateful for the challenges, the growth, and the community we’ve built. We invite you to be a part of it and experience the peace, freedom, and adventure that come with living off-grid in the heart of New Mexico.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com

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#PlateauHameDeColquhoun
#OffGridLiving #KaHoonCampground #NewMexicoDesert #ReconnectWithNature #BeYourself #InclusiveCommunity #NatureLovers #CampgroundEvents #SelfSufficiency #OffGridJourney #DesertCamping #SafeSpace #FreedomToBeYou #CampingAdventures #ExploreNewMexico #OutdoorLiving

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Unleash the Night: Music, Karaoke, Cosplay & Anime Under the Stars Extravaganza!

🎵 **Only 4 Days Until the Music in the Desert Talent Show & Karaoke!** 🎵

Join us for an unforgettable night of music and fun on Saturday! We’re combining our Talent Show and Karaoke with an exciting Anime Outdoors event in the Cahoots Courtyard. Don’t miss out on the cosplay contest with fantastic prizes!

📅 **Date:** Saturday August 17th
📍 **Location:** Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center

Whether you’re singing your heart out, showcasing your talents, or showing off your best cosplay, there’s something for everyone. See you there!

http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com



#PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #KaHoonCampground, #KaHoonEventCenter, #MusicInTheDesert, #TalentShow, #KaraokeNight, #AnimeOutdoors, #CosplayContest, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #GrimLeaferBand, #DesertEvents, #LiveMusic, #OutdoorFun, #NewMexicoEvents, #CommunityFun

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Embracing Desert Life: Off-Grid Living in New Mexico At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center.

Living Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert: A Journey of Resilience and Community

The New Mexico desert is a place of stunning beauty and tranquility, offering a unique and inspiring lifestyle for those who choose to live off-grid. At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we embrace the challenges and rewards of desert living, creating a community where nature, adventure, and human connection thrive.

#### Embracing the Beauty of the Desert

Every day in the desert brings a new adventure and a deeper connection with nature. The vast landscapes, unique rock formations, and vibrant flora and fauna provide a backdrop for endless exploration. Whether it’s hiking through rugged trails, marveling at the stunning sunsets, or simply enjoying the serene silence, the desert offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

#### Building a Resilient Community

Living off-grid in the desert teaches us resilience and adaptability. At Ka-Hoon Campground, we rely on solar power, conserve water, and utilize sustainable practices to thrive in this environment. Our community comes together to share resources, support each other, and celebrate our unique lifestyle. We host events like the “Music in the Desert Saturdays” and “Drum Circle on the Longest Day of the Year” to foster connections and create lasting memories.

#### Overcoming Challenges

Desert living is not without its challenges. The extreme temperatures, scarce water sources, and isolation require careful planning and resourcefulness. We schedule outdoor work for early mornings and late evenings to avoid the midday heat, and we find ways to stay cool indoors during the hottest part of the day. Our dogs also enjoy the cool interior of our homes, staying hydrated and comfortable with misting systems on particularly hot days.

#### Celebrating Together

One of the highlights of our community is gathering around the Colquhoun Hearth, our communal firepit. Located within the Colquhoun Circle, this space is open to all campers, weather permitting. It’s a place to socialize, play music, tell stories, and enjoy the mesmerizing New Mexico skies. From bonfires and talent shows to drum circles and camping nights, our events bring people together to share in the magic of the desert.

#### Join Us in the Desert

Living off-grid in the New Mexico desert is a journey of resilience, community, and inspiration. At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we welcome you to join us and experience the beauty and tranquility of desert life. Whether you’re camping under the stars, participating in our events, or simply soaking in the serene environment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For more information about our community, events, and how to get involved, visit our [website](https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com) or follow us on social media. Embrace the adventure and discover the magic of living off-grid in the New Mexico desert.


 
#OffGridLiving #NewMexicoDesert #DesertCommunity #SustainableLiving #DesertLife #KaHoonCampground ##KaHoonEventCenter #ColquhounHearth #NatureConnection #ResilientLiving #DesertEvents #CommunityLife #ExploreNewMexico #DesertAdventure #LiveOffGrid #CampgroundEvents #PlateauHameDeColquhoun

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Staying Cool Off-Grid: Life at Ka-Hoon Campground in the Desert

Staying Cool at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center

Yesterday, with temperatures soaring into the 90s, we focused on staying cool since we don’t use AC. To manage the heat, we adjust our schedules: outdoor tasks are completed in the early mornings or later in the evenings, while the rest of the day is spent indoors with shades drawn and fans running. This strategy keeps us at least 10 degrees cooler inside.

The dogs also stay indoors during the peak heat of the day, with unlimited water and occasional misting on extremely hot days, which we haven’t yet encountered this season.

#### Making the Most of Hot Days

On these sweltering days, we tackle tasks that can be done indoors. This includes:

– **Paperwork and Emails:** Keeping up with administrative tasks.
– **Video Production:** Working on creating and editing content.
– **Music and Crafts:** Brent works on his music while Anne and I engage in various craft projects.

#### Embracing Off-Grid Living

Life at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center means embracing the challenges and rewards of off-grid living. We prioritize sustainable practices and find ways to adapt to our environment, making our desert oasis a unique place where camping, events, and off-grid living converge.

For more insights and updates, stay connected with us and join our community. Whether you’re here for an event or just visiting, Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center offers a welcoming and resilient space in the heart of nature.

Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com


#OffGridLiving #DesertLife
#StayCool #SustainableLiving
#KaHoonCampground #DesertCamping
#HeatManagement #EcoFriendly
#CommunityLife #NatureLiving #DogCare #SummerHeat #CreativeLiving #CampgroundLife #DesertOasis

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Discover Off-Grid Living at Ka-Hoon Campground: A Desert Oasis in New Mexico

Discover Off-Grid Living at Ka-Hoon Campground: A Desert Oasis in New Mexico

At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we embody the essence of a desert oasis where camping, events, and off-grid living converge. Our recent efforts to enhance our solar lighting system exemplify our commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency.

Under the starlit skies of the New Mexico desert, we embarked on a mission to replace broken and non-functional solar lights across our property. By waiting until nightfall, we could easily identify which lights needed attention. As part of our eco-friendly approach, any working but broken lights were repurposed for future projects.

With a total of 20 new lights at our disposal, we weren’t sure how many replacements we would require. Ultimately, we used all but 6 of these lights, ensuring that each one found a meaningful purpose within our campground and event center.

After completing this task, we took a moment to unwind and appreciate the breathtaking desert skies, rejuvenating ourselves for the busy days ahead. We have exciting events lined up, including the Thursday night live rehearsal and the upcoming Nomad Gathering in the Desert.

Join us on our journey of off-grid living and desert adventures at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center. Learn more about our offerings and upcoming events at http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com.


Here are some suggested hashtags that can accompany your content:

#KaHoonCampground #DesertOasis
#OffGridLiving #CampingLife
#EventCenter #Sustainability #SolarPower
#EcoFriendly #NomadGathering #StarlitSkies #NewMexicoDesert #ThursdayNightLive #OutdoorAdventure #Rejuvenation #CommunityEvents #SelfSufficiency #KaHoonEventCenter #Campground #plateauhamedecolquhoun

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Discover the Enchantment of Cahoots Courtyard at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center

**Unveiling the Cahoots Courtyard at Ka-hoon Campground and Event Center**

Today at Ka-hoon Campground and Event Center, we dedicated our efforts to enhancing our space. We cleaned up around a mesquite bush, transplanted plants, and focused on perfecting the Cahoots Courtyard—a secluded area boasting its own firepit and room for a bar or cooking station.

The Cahoots Courtyard is an idyllic setting for small gatherings, weddings, or intimate events. It’s also our exclusive VIP area for members and performers to unwind and enjoy private moments.

Ready to discover the charm of the Cahoots Courtyard? Visit our website at http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com or contact us for more details on reserving this unique space for your next event.



#KaHoonCampground #EventCenter #CahootsCourtyard #SecludedSpace #VIPArea #SmallGatherings #IntimateEvents #WeddingVenue #EventSpace #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #KaHoonEventCenter #NewMexico #Desert #AdvocatusDiaboli

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Captivating Performances and Exciting News from Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band!

**Captivating Performances and Exciting News from Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band!**

Last night’s live rehearsal with Advocatus Diaboli on Clapper was an absolute blast! We had the pleasure of entertaining a record-breaking audience of well over 1k viewers. We hope everyone enjoyed the show as much as we did, and we look forward to seeing it continue to grow.

Mark your calendars for another exciting event: Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band will be playing a live concert on Clapper on June 6th at 6 PM. Whether you prefer to watch from the comfort of your home or join us in person by camping out, this promises to be an unforgettable experience.

That’s not all—don’t miss their live performance during the Nomad Gathering in the Desert on Saturday, May 11th! Visit our website for more details: http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com.

Stay tuned for more updates and thrilling performances from Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band!

#AdvocatusDiaboli #GrimLeaferBand #LiveConcert #ClapperEvent #NomadGathering #DesertEvent #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #MusicEvents #Entertainment #CampfireConcert

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Embracing the Lessons of Mother Nature: Unity and Acceptance

Embracing the Lessons of Mother Nature: Unity and Acceptance

Mother Nature is a force that transcends all boundaries, embracing every person regardless of their beliefs, appearance, or identity. Her impartial and nurturing approach offers us invaluable lessons in unity and acceptance, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all living beings.

## The Inclusive Wisdom of Nature

Nature doesn’t discriminate; she welcomes every creature with open arms. Whether you’re walking through a lush forest, hiking a rocky mountain trail, or exploring the serene New Mexico desert, you can witness the beauty of diverse ecosystems thriving together in harmony. This natural diversity is a testament to Mother Nature’s ability to unite seemingly different elements into a cohesive whole.

## Learning from Nature’s Example

As we spend time in nature, we can observe how she creates balance and order without imposing arbitrary judgments or barriers. Plants and animals coexist peacefully, each playing a role in the larger ecosystem. This seamless integration of life teaches us the importance of accepting and respecting differences, both in nature and within our own communities.

## Unity in Nature and Human Connections

The wisdom of Mother Nature extends to our relationships with others. By adopting her example of unity and acceptance, we can build stronger, more inclusive communities. Embracing diversity and finding common ground can lead to meaningful connections and shared experiences that enrich our lives.

## Applying Nature’s Lessons in Our Lives

1. **Celebrate Diversity**: Just as nature thrives on a variety of species, we can celebrate the diversity of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives in our own lives. Embrace the unique qualities of those around you and seek to learn from their experiences.

2. **Cultivate Empathy**: Nature teaches us to appreciate the interconnectedness of all living things. By cultivating empathy, we can better understand and support one another, creating a more compassionate and cohesive society.

3. **Protect the Environment**: Respecting and caring for the natural world is a key aspect of embracing Mother Nature’s lessons. Take action to protect and preserve our planet for future generations to enjoy.

## Finding Harmony with Nature

By aligning our values with the wisdom of Mother Nature, we can foster a greater sense of unity and acceptance in our lives. Whether we’re exploring the great outdoors or interacting with others, let’s strive to embody the spirit of inclusivity and respect that nature exemplifies.

Let Mother Nature be your guide as you navigate the complexities of the modern world. Embrace her lessons of unity and acceptance, and you’ll find a path toward greater harmony and fulfillment.

http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com

#MotherNature #NatureInspiration #UnityAndAcceptance #EmbraceDiversity #NatureLessons #RespectTheLand #SustainableLiving #EnvironmentalWisdom #NatureConnection #Inclusivity #CelebrateDiversity