Yesterday was a big day—we got to take our **first shower in our new off-grid shower setup**! After all the planning, ordering, adjusting, and waiting on parts, it felt amazing to finally rinse off right here at home.
Of course, no DIY project is ever *truly* finished on the first go. We’ve still got a few tweaks to make:
* The **drain piece we picked up was a bit too small**, so we’ll need to replace it with a better-fitting one.
* Right now, we’re **placing the water pump inside the shower when not in use**, but that’s not a long-term solution. We need to build or repurpose a small box or container to house it safely and neatly.
* Our **on-demand water heater runs on D batteries**, and the rechargeable ones we bought aren’t doing the trick. I’m going to give them one more good charge and see if that helps—if not, we’ll pick up some regular D batteries to test it out.
* We also need to **install a hanger for the showerhead** to avoid the awkward balancing act we’ve been doing.
* And last but not least—we’re on the hunt for **pallets and posts to build an outdoor privacy wall** around the shower.
Until the privacy wall goes up, showering means dressing and undressing under the wide open desert sky. It’s totally fine when it’s just us out here, but less ideal when we have visitors or campers on-site.
Still, all of that aside—**being able to shower at home again feels like a luxury.** It’s a simple thing we used to take for granted, and now it’s a real treat to step into our own outdoor setup, clean off the desert dust, and not have to plan a trip to town for something so basic.
We’ll keep updating as we fine-tune the setup and build the privacy wall. Off-grid life may not always be convenient, but it’s always rewarding—especially when you finally get to feel clean at home.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DIYShowerBuild, #DesertLife, #TinyHomeProjects, #OutdoorShower, #HomesteadLife, #ShowerProgress, #KaHoonCampgroundAndEventCenter, #PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #WaterStorageSolutions, #PrivacyWallBuild, #OnDemandWaterHeater, #IBCSetup, #DesertHomestead, #OffGridCouple**
Tag: off-grid life
Almost Gave Up on This Off-Grid Shower Build… But We Pushed Through! 💪🛠️
🌦️ Rainy Desert Days & A Shower Build Full of Lessons
DIY Life at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun
It’s been a stretch of cloudy, rainy, and warm days here on the New Mexico desert — and despite the gloomy skies, we’ve been pushing forward with our off-grid shower build at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun.
The main structure is now complete! We still need to install the on-demand water heater, finish the drainage system, and run the water hoses — but we’re close. The only thing holding us back now is gathering a few more supplies.
This build hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing — not because it was technically complex, but because of our learning curve with tools and miscommunications during the process. With Brent still recovering from multiple strokes and carotid artery surgery, he’s limited to using only one good arm. That means our teamwork has been more important than ever — and sometimes, a bit chaotic.
While Anne and I were finishing up the door, I broke three drill bits and stripped out more screw heads than I care to admit. Frustrated, Brent stepped in to help. Despite only having the use of one arm, he drilled the holes and put in the screws like it was nothing. Honestly, it was inspiring to watch — he made it look effortless. But it came with a cost. His bad arm, hand, and shoulder swelled up afterward. Thankfully, the swelling had gone down by the next morning. It was a reminder of both how far he’s come in recovery and how important it is to pace ourselves.
Just a few weeks ago, he couldn’t even hold a drill. And now? He’s back to problem-solving and building — one-handed and determined. We’ll be wrapping up the final plumbing parts soon and will share the full off-grid shower reveal once everything’s running!
Thanks for following along with our journey — from stroke recovery and DIY struggles to homestead progress and desert storms.
Stay weird & wild,
\~The Ka-Hoon Crew
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #DIYShowerBuild, #StrokeRecovery, #OneHandedBuilder, #KaHoonLife, #HomesteadProjects, #LivingOffGrid, #SurvivorSpirit, #DesertRain, #RecoveryJourney, #AnimatronicLife, #BuildingWithLove, #InspirationInTheDesert, #TinyLivingBigHeart
Flat Tire, Monsoon & Stroke Recovery – One Unexpected Day That Tested Everything!
### 🌧️ **When It Rains, It Pours—Literally (But We Keep Rolling)**
Yesterday was one of those classic desert days where everything goes a little sideways—and then the sky opens up just to top it off.
We were on our way to Brent’s physical therapy when something punctured the sidewall of our tire. With limited use of his left side since his strokes earlier this year, Brent couldn’t jump in to change it like he used to. That was hard for him—he’s always been the kind of guy who takes care of things. But he still guided me through every step, making sure everything was tightened and done right. It was teamwork in a different way, and I couldn’t have done it without him.
A few kind folks stopped to check on us, but after seeing Brent, they quietly left. I know it stung, even if they meant no harm. Recovery comes with a lot of physical challenges—but emotional ones, too. We’re learning and adjusting every day.
Once we got the donut on, we made it to PT and then headed to Discount Tire. Just as we pulled in, the skies opened up in a full-blown monsoon. We had to wait out the rain in the car before we could go inside—and yes, we got video proof of that desert downpour moment.
Thankfully, the tire was covered under warranty, and we left with a brand-new one and a little bit of peace of mind. Even when things don’t go as planned, we’re grateful for small wins and moments of progress.
Life off-grid in the New Mexico desert isn’t always easy. Between road adventures, recovery, and stormy surprises, we’ve learned to lean into the chaos and find strength in the calm between.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#strokeawareness, #caregiverlife, #offgridliving, #desertlife, #tinyhomelife, #flatireadventure, #ptjourney, #recoveryroad, #strokecommunity, #monsoonseason, #healingtogether, #strongertogether, #discounttire, #desertstorms, #lifeunexpected
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
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#StrokeSurvivor, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #OffGridLife, #HealingThroughMusic, #DesertLiving, #MusicTherapy, #RecoveryJourney, #IndieBand, #InspirationalStory, #LifeAfterStroke, #GrimLeaferBand, #NewMexicoLife, #SupportLocalMusic, #StrokeAwareness, #NeverGiveUp
Off-Grid Life: Sunlight Struggles & Community Wins in the New Mexico Desert!
**Life Off-Grid: Balancing Sunlight, Solar Power, and Community in the Desert**
With the last bits of snow now melted away, the desert sun is shining brighter each day, though not quite enough to keep us powered through the night. Living off-grid means relying on solar energy, but even here in the New Mexico desert, sunlight isn’t always a guarantee. We’re planning to build another solar array soon to increase our energy capacity, but timing is everything. On the rare calm days with mild weather, other responsibilities often take priority.
### Building Our Off-Grid Community
We’ve also welcomed a few long-term members to our off-grid community, and it’s been rewarding to see them embrace the membership program. Here, members find a unique balance of freedom and security. They each have their own small piece of land to call home, creating a space that reflects their individual personalities and needs. But there’s also the reassurance of nearby support. Members can turn to one another for advice, help with projects, or even just a friendly conversation, while still enjoying privacy and personal space.
### Benefits of Off-Grid Membership
Our membership program isn’t just about living off-grid—it’s about building a community that values independence and self-reliance, while also supporting one another. Members experience:
– **Personal Freedom**: The freedom to live off-grid, with few restrictions, allowing members to create a lifestyle that suits them.
– **Community Support**: Having others nearby who understand off-grid living and are willing to lend a hand or offer advice.
– **Privacy**: The ability to enjoy their own space while being part of a close-knit community.
As we continue to build out our solar capabilities and enhance our facilities, our community remains at the heart of what we do. Here, we’ve created a space for those who seek both independence and camaraderie, and it’s rewarding to see others enjoy this way of life as much as we do.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLife #DesertLiving #SolarPowerStruggles #WinterInTheDesert #NoPowerProblems #LivingSimply #CommunityLife #RVLiving #EcoFriendlyLife #SnowyDesert #SolarEnergy #KaHoonCampground #OffGridCommunity #MakingItWork #LifeUnplugged
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
Snow Day Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert | Clearing Solar Panels & Embracing Winter’s Beauty
Snow Day in the Desert: Embracing Winter Off-Grid with a Dusting of Snow
Waking up this morning to a snowy landscape in the New Mexico desert was a refreshing surprise. The ground is covered in a beautiful, crisp layer of snow, reminding me of the long Minnesota winters I used to endure. Today’s task: clearing the snow off the solar panels, hoping for even a sliver of sunlight to keep our power running through the night.
### Snow in the Desert vs. Snow in Minnesota
Snow in the desert doesn’t last long. In a day or two, it’ll melt away, and the sun will return to recharge our solar batteries. Unlike the endless winter months back in Minnesota, where snow seemed to settle in for a long stay and freezing temps often meant you’d think twice before braving the outdoors.
### Benefits of Desert Snow
Here in the desert, snow feels more like a treat than a chore. It brings a temporary beauty to the landscape without the drawbacks of prolonged cold or cabin fever that’s hard to shake in places where winter drags on. Once the snow melts, life here returns to normal. No snow shovels gathering dust, no icy roads—just a momentary visit from winter.
### Off-Grid Snow Day Tips
For those living off-grid, snow days do require a bit of preparation. Here are a few tips we follow to stay ready:
1. **Clear Snow from Solar Panels**: Even a small amount of sunlight can make a difference, so we remove as much snow as possible.
2. **Conserve Power**: Cloudy days require us to be mindful of energy use, so we scale back on lights and devices until the sun is back.
3. **Embrace the Cozy Factor**: While we don’t run our propane heater all day, we bundle up and enjoy the cozy, quiet moments a snow day brings.
Winter in the desert may be fleeting, but we’re grateful for these brief, beautiful reminders of snow without the hardships that come with a long, snowy season.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#SnowInTheDesert #DesertWinter #OffGridLife #SolarPower #EnergyConservation #WinterWonderland #RVLife #DesertSnow #KaHoonCampground #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #SustainableLiving #EcoFriendlyLiving #MinimalistLife #SolarPanels #CabinFeverFree
Starry Nights & Outdoor Movies: Creating Magical Moments in the Desert with Neighbors
Finding Connection Under the Stars: Outdoor Movies in the Desert
Sometimes, it’s the simplest moments that bring the most joy. Last night, we shared one of those with a neighbor—an outdoor movie under the desert’s endless sky. As the sun dipped below the horizon and the desert quieted, we set up the projector, tossed some blankets down, and sat back with popcorn to watch a film together. It’s these small connections that make life out here truly special.
### Creating Community in the Desert
Living in the desert has its challenges, but it also creates a unique environment for connection. Out here, where there’s open land and starry skies, we often find ourselves naturally bonding with neighbors over simple activities. An outdoor movie may seem like a small gesture, but it turns into something magical under the desert stars.
### Why Moments Like These Matter
Life can get busy, and it’s easy to lose track of what really brings us happiness. That’s why we cherish moments like these. Sitting under the stars, hearing the soft hum of the desert around us, and watching a story unfold on the screen brings a sense of peace and togetherness that’s hard to find anywhere else.
### Make Your Own Magic Outdoors
No matter where you are, bringing a little creativity to your gatherings can turn any space into a memorable experience. All it takes is a little preparation and an open mind. Next time you’re craving something different, try setting up an outdoor movie, gathering a few friends or neighbors, and enjoying a night under the stars.
In the end, these small, shared experiences are what build lasting friendships and memories.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OutdoorMovieNight, #DesertLife, #StarryNights, #CommunityGathering, #SimpleJoys, #DesertLiving, #MovieUnderTheStars, #OutdoorEntertainment, #CampfireVibes, #DesertCommunity, #OffGridLife, #MakingMemories, #LifeInTheDesert, #NatureConnections, #EveningUnderTheStars
Get Ready for the Halloween Hootenanny & Music in the Desert at Ka-Hoon Campground!
**Get Ready for an Exciting Weekend at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center!**
Don’t forget, this weekend is the *Music in the Desert Talent Show and Karaoke* at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center. It’s your chance to showcase your talent or simply enjoy the performances and have a blast singing your favorite songs!
And starting October 16th, we’re kicking off the *Halloween Hootenanny*! This spooky celebration will feature live music, contests, creepy camp crawls, and so much more. Whether you’re a local or traveling through, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Be sure to visit our website for more information and get all the details on the upcoming events. Grab your friends and family, and come join the fun!
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#PlateauHameDeColquhoun #AdvocatusDiaboli #GrimLeaferBand #KaHoonCampground #MusicInTheDesert #HalloweenHootenanny #KaraokeNight #DesertEvents #TalentShow #LiveMusic #CampgroundEvents #OffGridLife #SpookySeason #CampfireVibes #DesertCamping
Experiencing the Albuquerque Balloon Festival: Morning Glow, Drone Show, and Neighborly Support!
**Our Experience at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival: A Testament to Good Neighbors**
A few days ago, a neighbor asked if we’d be interested in going to the Albuquerque Balloon Festival. As much as it sounded like a blast, we had campers arriving, and the big question was, what about the dogs?
After some thoughtful discussions with multiple neighbors, we came up with a plan. With their help, we decided we could head out for the early morning Glow and drone show and be back around noon—just in time to manage things with the campers. One neighbor even offered to come by and let the dogs out, which sealed the deal.
The catch? We had to leave around 2 a.m. That meant waking up at 1 a.m., brewing some coffee, feeding the dogs, and letting them get in some early morning playtime before we headed out.
Now that we’re home, the dogs are happy, we’re a bit tired, but we took a short nap and are now unwinding with some football.
The moral of the story? There’s nothing like having neighbors, friends, or family who are there to help make things possible. Without their support, we wouldn’t have been able to attend the festival, which made the experience even more special. We’re grateful for these wonderful neighbors and are excited to share our day with them and all of you!
**Key takeaway:** Good neighbors make life’s adventures even better!
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#AlbuquerqueBalloonFestival #OffGridLife #CommunitySupport #GoodNeighbors #MorningGlow #DroneShow #NomadLife #FestivalFun #RVLife #TinyHouseLiving #BalloonFiesta #FamilyAndFriends #TravelAdventures #DogFriendlyLife #GratefulCommunity
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 