**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
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#StrokeSurvivor, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #OffGridLife, #HealingThroughMusic, #DesertLiving, #MusicTherapy, #RecoveryJourney, #IndieBand, #InspirationalStory, #LifeAfterStroke, #GrimLeaferBand, #NewMexicoLife, #SupportLocalMusic, #StrokeAwareness, #NeverGiveUp
Tag: New Mexico Desert
Ka-Hoon Campground: Where the Road Is Rough but the Welcome Is Real—Find Your Place Off the Grid
Life and the journey to Ka-Hoon Campground have a lot in common—bumpy, unpredictable, and totally worth it. The roads out here in the New Mexico desert aren’t perfect (we know), but they lead to something special.
We’ve built this off-grid space for *everyone*. It doesn’t matter who you voted for, your beliefs, or your background—what matters is respect. Whether you’re seeking quiet solitude or conversations around the fire with people from all walks of life, you’re welcome here.
We’ve been called a lot of things just for being different—cult leaders, satanic, eccentric. Truth is, we just like strange art, cool oddities, and having an open mind. Our library has books on all kinds of beliefs, not to worship, but to learn.
If that bothers you, that’s okay. But don’t judge what you haven’t taken the time to understand.
We’re just us. Off-grid, real, and always welcoming to those who respect others and embrace the journey—even the rough roads.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
http://www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertCamping, #KaHoonCampground, #AlternativeLifestyle, #CampVibes, #OpenMindedCommunity, #DesertLife, #UniqueDestinations, #RoadLessTraveled, #InclusiveCamping, #BeYourself, #UnusualAdventures, #RVLife, #CampfireNights, #EscapeTheOrdinary
Surviving the Harsh Desert: Off-Grid Life, Wind Battles & Starry Nights in New Mexico!
**Embracing the Off-Grid Life in the New Mexico Desert**
Living off-grid in the New Mexico desert is a journey of resilience, adaptation, and appreciation for nature’s raw beauty. The challenges are real—relentless winds, shifting sands, and scorching sun test even the most determined. Yet, the rewards far outweigh the struggles.
The vast, open landscape offers a sense of freedom few places can match. Towering mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop, while the night sky, untouched by city lights, becomes a canvas of endless stars. Every evening, the desert transforms, revealing a peaceful, almost mystical energy that makes all the hardships worth enduring.
Each season brings its own battles—spring winds carry dust that seeps into everything, summer heat pushes limits, and winter nights can be bitterly cold. Yet, overcoming these obstacles fosters strength and self-reliance. It’s a lifestyle that demands perseverance but rewards with unmatched tranquility, deeper connections to nature, and a life free from the constraints of modern convenience.
For those seeking a simpler, more intentional way of living, the desert calls. It may not be easy, but the beauty, solitude, and self-sufficiency make it an experience like no other.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #SustainableLiving, #SelfSufficiency, #NewMexico, #StarryNights, #WindyDesert, #MountainViews, #OffGridAdventure, #SimpleLife, #Homesteading, #NatureLover, #LivingWild, #EcoLiving, #Freedom
Experience the Unique Animatronic Sounds of Advocatus Diaboli & Grim Leafer Band Live!
Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band: A Night at Mini Red Velvet Underground
A Memorable Performance
Yesterday, **Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band** had the pleasure of performing at the **Mini Red Velvet Underground**. This cozy, intimate venue provided the perfect atmosphere for our unique blend of animatronic-driven performances, parodies, and original music.
We debuted our new song, **”Setting the Scene,”** and implemented some changes to the animatronic setup. While there were a few glitches, that’s part of the charm and creativity that makes our shows special. The audience’s energy and the venue’s vibe made for an unforgettable night.
The Post-Show Pitstop Gone Wrong
After our shows, we typically stop for a bite to eat and unwind before the long trek through the desert roads. This time, we chose ** Arby’s at Love’s in Belen, New Mexico**. However, we encountered an unexpected situation.
At **10:15-10:20 PM**, we lined up to order, only to be informed that **no orders could be taken during a shift change until 11 PM**. We’ve never experienced this before and weren’t willing to wait 45 minutes just to place an order. With a group of five, that was a decent chunk of revenue lost for the establishment.
This stop is usually where we **critique the show**, discuss what worked, and identify areas for improvement—especially when testing new songs and techniques. Unfortunately, this experience disrupted our routine.
Join the Experience
If you’re looking for a **unique, animatronic-driven variety show**, unlike anything you’ve seen before, check us out at:
http://www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com
We’re always pushing the boundaries of performance art and can’t wait to see you at our next gig!
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#AdvocatusDiaboliBand, #GrimLeaferBand, #AnimatronicBand, #LiveMusic, #UniquePerformance, #ParodyMusic, #OriginalSongs, #MiniRedVelvetUnderground, #NewMexicoMusic, #DesertVibes, #BandLife, #MusicInTheDesert, #AlternativeMusic, #UndergroundScene, #MusicJourney
Experience True Freedom: Off-Grid Living at Ka-Hoon Campground in New Mexico’s Desert
Nestled deep within the New Mexico desert, just 42 miles from Albuquerque, lies Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center—a family-operated, off-grid haven designed for those seeking freedom, community, and a safe space to be themselves. citeturn0search0
**Embrace Off-Grid Living**
At Ka-Hoon, we pride ourselves on offering an authentic off-grid experience. Our facilities are powered entirely by solar energy, and all water is responsibly hauled in, emphasizing our commitment to sustainability. With 16 groomed campsites, guests can choose between RV and tent camping, immersing themselves in the serene desert landscape. citeturn0search4
**A Community Like No Other**
Beyond just a campground, Ka-Hoon fosters a vibrant community. We host a variety of events, from festivals and concerts to weddings and family reunions, all set against the backdrop of the stunning New Mexico desert. Our venue includes a stage, green room, and a compost toilet, ensuring comfort while maintaining our eco-friendly ethos.
**Join Our Membership Program**
For those yearning for a deeper connection, our membership program offers exclusive benefits:
– **Priority Access**: Be the first to know about upcoming events and secure your spot in advance.
– **Community Workshops**: Participate in peer ran workshops focused on sustainable living, off-grid skills, and more.
– **Member Gatherings**: Attend exclusive member-only events and build lasting relationships with like-minded individuals.
**A Safe Space to Be Yourself**
At Ka-Hoon, we celebrate individuality. Our goal is to try to ensure that all guests feel comfortable and free to express themselves. Whether you’re seeking solitude or social connection, our campground provides the perfect setting.
**Experience the Ka-Hoon Difference**
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and discover the tranquility of off-grid living. Join our community at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, where freedom, safety, and authenticity are at the heart of everything we do.
For more information or to become a member, visit our [official website](https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com/) or follow us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/plateauhamedecolquhoun/) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kahooncampground/).
*Embrace the freedom. Experience the community. Welcome to Ka-Hoon.*
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#OffGridLiving, #OffGrid, #TinyHouse, #OffGridLife, #TinyHome, #ContainerHouse, #OffGridHomestead, #CabinPorn, #ContainerHome, #TinyHouseMovement, #TinyLiving, #VanLife, #TinyHouseOnWheels, #CabinLife, #TinyHouses
From Victorian Home to Off-Grid Living: Our Journey to Building a Desert Dream in New Mexico!
Our Journey to New Mexico: From a Victorian Home to Building a New Life Off-Grid**
For many years, we lived in a charming but challenging 2,000-square-foot 1880s Victorian house on a large lot in a small town in Minnesota. Alongside our time there, we spent weekends, holidays, and summers at an 8×16 fish house we converted into a cozy cabin while managing the Environmental Education Center. It was a beautiful dual lifestyle, balancing the history of our home with the serenity of cabin life.
### The Turning Point
The Victorian house, though beautiful, required extensive renovations far beyond our budget: a new roof, windows, insulation, rewiring, and more. When the roof began leaking, we explored loans but quickly realized the house’s value wouldn’t support them. Faced with this reality, we made a family decision to let the house go. Instead, we planned to live in the cabin while saving to purchase land near the Environmental Education Center where we could build our dream life.
Then, an unexpected opportunity arose. A friend from a yearly event at the center invited us to stay at her ranch in New Mexico over the winter to help restore it for future events. Before committing, we asked our kids to try online school for one semester. If they didn’t like it, they could return to in-person school the following year. They were excited about the adventure and agreed to give it a try.
### Falling in Love with New Mexico
We closed down the center for winter and headed to Ruidoso, New Mexico. Our original plan was temporary: spend the winter working, save money, and return to Minnesota to purchase land. But New Mexico changed everything. The ranch’s rich history (I love history!), mild weather, and stunning landscapes captured our hearts. We started looking for our own piece of land nearby—something affordable, remote, and suitable for hosting events and camping.
Despite initial doubts, we found several options within our budget. One piece stood out: it was close to a major city, had breathtaking views, and offered privacy—perfect for our dreams. The only challenge? It was Christmas, and buying the land would leave us with no money for presents or even gas to return to Minnesota. After discussing it as a family, we decided to take the leap. The kids agreed to forgo Christmas gifts for the opportunity to build our future.
### A Christmas Miracle
Just as we finalized the purchase, a little magic happened. Brent and I decided to have a rare date night at Billy the Kid Casino, where they were offering free play. We registered and learned they were drawing one lucky person to play a giant game of blackjack for a chance to win 500 play credits. My name was called (much to my horror—I’m shy and terrible at blackjack). But to my surprise, I won!
Not knowing much about slots, I asked Brent to handle the winnings. After a few tries, we hit $400, then $500, and cashed out $900. The next day, we took the kids shopping in Ruidoso for Christmas presents and used the rest for gas money to return to Minnesota, knowing we’d come back to our land in the fall to start our new lives.
### Building Our Dream
This January 3rd marks five years since we bought the land. Looking back, taking that risk was one of the best decisions we ever made. We’ve worked hard to build a life off-grid, creating a space where nature, community, and individuality thrive. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been deeply rewarding.
### A Note on Education
One of the biggest surprises was how much our kids loved online schooling during this transition. They thrived in the flexible environment, improving from occasional Ds and Fs to consistent As and Bs. Both graduated at the top of their classes, proving that sometimes, stepping outside the norm leads to incredible results.
### Lessons Learned
As we approach this milestone, we’re reminded of the importance of taking risks and trusting in the journey. Whether you call it faith, fate, or the power of nature, sometimes you just have to leap and let life guide you. We’re excited to see what the future holds and grateful for how far we’ve come.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving #NewMexicoLife #FamilyAdventure #HomesteadingJourney
#TinyHouseLiving #SimplifyYourLife
#VictorianHomeStory #LifeInTheDesert
#SustainableLiving #RuidosoNewMexico
#EducationSuccess #DreamChasers
#BuildingCommunity #RiskAndReward #NatureInspiredLiving
Experience Thanksgiving Off-Grid: Ka-Hoon Campground’s Unique Celebration in the New Mexico Desert!
Happy Thanksgiving from Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center!
Greetings from the beautiful New Mexico desert! All of us here at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.
As the holiday season begins, we reflect on the joys and challenges of living off-grid in this unique landscape. From hosting events like the Halloween Hootenanny to preparing for our upcoming HORRORDAZE Extravaganza on December 21st, it’s been a year filled with community, creativity, and hard work.
This Thanksgiving, we’re especially grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our members, guests, and friends. Whether you’ve joined us for camping, events, or just stopped by to enjoy the desert views, your presence has made Ka-Hoon a truly special place.
Today, we’ll celebrate with a turkey dinner shared among neighbors, embracing the spirit of togetherness that defines our off-grid lifestyle. Even as we navigate the quirks of desert living—like setting up new solar systems or braving chilly nights—we’re reminded that the connections we forge with others make it all worthwhile.
From all of us at Ka-Hoon, we hope your Thanksgiving is filled with warmth, good food, and cherished moments with loved ones. If you’re planning your next adventure, don’t forget to check out our unique camping experiences and exciting events.
Happy Thanksgiving!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #GrimLeaferBand, #KaHoonCampground, #OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #NewMexicoEvents, #SustainableLiving, #HolidaysInTheDesert, #HORRORDAZE2024, #CommunityCelebration, #ThanksgivingInTheDesert, #UniqueCampingExperience, #DesertCampingAdventures, #OffGridCommunity
Experience Ka-Hoon Campground: Off-Grid Desert Living, Starry Skies & Unique Membership Perks
**Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center Membership Program: Your Desert Oasis**
At **Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center**, we’re more than just a campground—we’re a community. Our newly launched membership program was created after hearing requests for long-term stays. It’s designed to provide a space where individuals can live freely without the commitment of purchasing land, while still enjoying the beauty of the New Mexico desert.
### **What Makes Membership Unique?**
By becoming a member, you gain:
– **A Voice in the Community**: Help shape the rules, regulations, and events at Ka-Hoon.
– **Event Perks**: Enjoy Ka-Hoon-hosted events free or for a minimal charge, depending on the event.
– **Your Own Space**: Designate a small area for your camp, garden, and personal projects.
– **Freedom to Be You**: Live your lifestyle authentically and legally in a welcoming, judgment-free zone.
### **Our Simple Guidelines**
We aim to keep rules minimal while maintaining safety and harmony for everyone:
– No illegal drugs or underage drinking.
– **420-friendly** for adults of legal age.
– If it’s legal, you’re welcome to do it.
This program allows you to experience the freedom of the desert while fostering a supportive and respectful community. Together, we work to protect the land, respect one another, and create a safe haven for all.
### **Why Join?**
Life at Ka-Hoon is about embracing individuality and connecting with others. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a place to garden, or a community to call home, we offer a unique opportunity to live authentically in the stunning New Mexico desert.
**Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center**: A safe place to call home, even if only for a little while.
*Join us and discover what it means to live free.
https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com/membership/
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#PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #KaHoonCampgroundAndEventCenter, #OffGridLiving, #DesertCamping, #UniqueCampingExperience, #CommunityLiving, #SustainableLiving, #CampingLife, #NewMexicoCamping, #EcoFriendlyTravel, #StarryNights, #CampgroundMembership, #AdventureAwaits, #LiveFree, #DesertVibes
Desert Life Updates: Solar Challenges, Studio Progress & Campground Membership Launch
Desert Life: Short Days, Chilly Nights, and New Beginnings
Life in the desert this time of year moves at a slower pace, but it’s anything but dull. The days are short, the nights chilly, and the winds relentless. Yesterday brought a little rain and overcast skies, which meant our solar setup didn’t hold out through the night. Fortunately, this hardly impacts us—we just wait for the solar to recharge before diving back into work at the studio.
The last few days have been productive, though. We’ve been in the studio preparing some fresh holiday songs for *Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band*. While we currently don’t have gigs lined up, that’s okay. It’s given us time to focus on perfecting new material and launching our new membership program for the campground.
The response to the membership program has been incredible! We’ve received lots of interest and are actively fine-tuning the system to make it seamless. With a few long-term campers here, we’re hopeful they’ll take the leap and join as members once they’ve settled in.
The desert may seem quiet on the surface, but beneath its stillness lies a hum of activity, growth, and preparation for the adventures to come. Life here isn’t just about adapting to the environment—it’s about thriving within its challenges.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #KaHoonCampground, #DesertLiving, #OffGridLife, #CampgroundCommunity, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #GrimLeaferBand, #DesertAdventures, #CampingLife, #SolarPower, #StarryNights, #HolidaySongs, #MembershipProgram, #CampgroundLife, #EscapeToTheDesert
Morning Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert | Solar Power, Coffee, and Winter Chill
**Desert Morning Off-Grid**
The sun peeks over mountains wide,
Charging batteries, our faithful guide.
Snow is melting, earth laid bare,
In crisp, chilled air, desert flair.
The cold clings close, a stubborn guest,
But heat hums gently, granting rest.
Coffee brews, rich and bold,
Warming hands in the morning cold.
Off-grid life, a steady beat,
In desert sands, sun and sleet.
With every dawn, we find our way,
Living free, day by day.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLife #DesertLiving #NewMexicoDesert #SolarPower #SustainableLiving #CoffeeTime #SnowInTheDesert #MorningRoutine #EcoFriendly #RVLife #LivingSimply #DesertSunrise #NatureLife #MinimalistLiving #LifeUnplugged
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 