**Living Off-Grid: Peace, Beauty, and the Occasional Challenge**
Life off-grid in the desert is a unique blend of serenity and vigilance. The views are breathtaking, the quiet is restorative, and the freedom to live authentically is unparalleled. Yet, challenges arise when others misinterpret a laid-back, open-hearted lifestyle as an invitation to take advantage.
At Ka-Hoon Campground, we pride ourselves on being welcoming and helpful. We respect others’ individuality and value mutual respect in return. But make no mistake—our kindness should never be mistaken for weakness. We stand firm in our beliefs, protect our hard-earned achievements, and fiercely guard our friends, family, and community.
In recent days, unsettling incidents have reminded us of the need for vigilance. Unknown individuals have been observed suspiciously loitering near our property. While it’s not uncommon for travelers to pass through, these behaviors raise red flags—stopping repeatedly, backing into driveways with clear “Private Property” signs, and speeding off when approached.
We understand mistakes happen—people get lost or need directions. If these individuals meant no harm, we’re prepared to extend our apologies for any misunderstanding. However, speeding off when approached or repeatedly stopping in private areas suggests otherwise.
To those visiting or passing by, we welcome friendly conversation or requests for assistance. A simple knock on the door or a polite wave goes a long way. Respect us, and we’ll gladly reciprocate. Disrespect us, however, and we will not back down.
Living off-grid teaches resilience, and we hold tight to the values of self-reliance, protection, and respect. Let this serve as a reminder: the desert may be peaceful, but those who live here know how to stand their ground.
#OffGridLiving #DesertLife #KaHoonCampground #ProtectWhatYouLove #MutualRespect #Resilience #StandYourGround #DesertCommunity #PrivateProperty #StayAlert
Tag: off grid living
Desert Vibes, Music, and New Friends: A Relaxing Day at Ka-Hoon Campground You Don’t Want to Miss!
**Finding Balance Amid the Hustle: A Day to Relax at Ka-Hoon**
Life has been a whirlwind lately at *Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center*! Between managing the band (*Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band*), running JAFO Productions, hosting campers, and connecting with our amazing members, it feels like there’s never a dull moment.
But today, we took a much-needed pause to enjoy life and recharge. Some new friends from Albuquerque came by to visit, and it was a delight to share stories, laughs, and good company. Anne even had a date, which added a special touch to the day!
Meanwhile, Brent and I savored the moment with a refreshing drink in hand. Brent even sang a bit, making the atmosphere lively and relaxed. These little moments of connection and fun remind us why we do what we do—it’s all about building community and creating memories that last.
Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events, the band’s adventures, and everything else happening at Ka-Hoon. Until then, don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy life, just as we did today!
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#KaHoonCampground, #DesertAdventures, #NewMexicoCamping, #BandLife, #CampfireVibes, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #OffGridLiving, #CommunityConnections, #DesertEscape, #MusicAndMemories, #CampingLife, #ExploreNewMexico, #RelaxAndRecharge, #OutdoorLiving, #JAFOProductions
From Car Troubles to Show Time: How We Prepped for Tonight’s Performance Against All Odds!
**Dealing with Challenges While Preparing for Tonight’s Show**
Life has a way of throwing curveballs, and this weekend proved it. Despite unexpected car troubles, we’re determined to make tonight’s Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band show at Juno Brewery unforgettable!
Normally, the day of a show is reserved for relaxation and preparation. But on Friday night, while Brent picked up Anne from work, the car quit, leaving them stranded in town at midnight. I stayed home to keep the heat going, with only our 1984 diesel pickup available. Unfortunately, starting it on a cold night proved challenging, as we avoid plugging it in to save solar power.
Brent tried guiding me through starting it over the phone, but no luck. Thankfully, two kind neighbors came to the rescue, helping Brent and Anne get home around 3 a.m. The issue? A missing belt.
The next morning, a wonderful neighbor helped Brent fix the car while Anne and I performed surgery on Spliff (our Grim Leafer guitarist). During the last show, Spliff rocked out so hard he broke his back! After diligent repairs, both Spliff and the car were ready for action.
A successful test drive gave us confidence, but it left no time to load equipment. Instead of stressing, we decided to handle loading today, even if it’s a bit rushed. With early departure times, late-night shows, and our loyal dogs joining the trip, we’ve had our hands full. Luckily, someone will be staying back at the campground to assist campers while we’re away.
We’re incredibly grateful for our supportive neighbors and their willingness to lend a hand. Challenges like these remind us how important it is to have a strong community.
Despite the hurdles, we’re ready to hit the road and make tonight’s performance unforgettable. If you’re in Albuquerque, join us at Juno Brewery for an evening of music, humor, and animatronic magic!
**See you there!**
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
http://www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com
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#BandLife, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #GrimLeaferBand, #AnimatronicShow, #LiveMusic, #RoadLife, #ShowTime, #MusicAndHumor, #RockAndRoll, #LateNightVibes, #SupportLocalBands, #UniqueEntertainment, #GratefulNeighbors, #PerformancePrep, #DesertLife
Off-Grid Solar Power Struggles: RV Repairs, Sandstorms & Solar!”
**Off-Grid Living: Repairs, Sandstorms, and Solar Power Adjustments**
It’s Sunday, and after battling high winds and a **red flag warning** yesterday, we’re finally ready to repair the RV—assuming the winds calm down as predicted. Yesterday’s **sandstorm** made it impossible to work outside, but today looks more promising for getting the **new parts installed** and fixing the **shore power connection**.
### **Temporary Adjustments While Waiting on Repairs**
With no power in the RV, we’ve been spending our evenings in the **Greenroom**. It’s been a cozy alternative, giving us access to power for **watching TV, charging devices**, and staying comfortable without needing to run the **generator** in the RV.
Interestingly, we’ve also confirmed that **staying up later** and running electronics in the RV was a major factor in draining the **solar power system**. Thankfully, our system shuts down at **50% battery capacity**, which prevents a complete drain. Still, it’s a reminder of how easy it is to **overload off-grid systems** when schedules or habits change.
### **Battling Dust and Wind Challenges**
Today’s repairs depend heavily on the **wind conditions**. If the winds stay calm, we’ll tackle the repairs and hopefully restore the RV’s power connection. I’d love to capture some **videos or photos** during the process—if the dust isn’t too bad. Unfortunately, high winds and **dust storms** don’t agree with me. They cause **swelling and allergies**, which means I probably **should wear a mask** (even though I hate them!).
### **A Glimpse of Off-Grid Living**
Yesterday’s trip back from **Albuquerque** was a classic example of **desert living**—enough wind to send **sand and tumbleweeds** tumbling across the interstate. It’s moments like this that remind us of both the beauty and challenges of living off-grid in the **New Mexico desert**.
### **Final Thoughts**
Living off-grid comes with unexpected twists—from **solar system hiccups** to **weather delays**—but it also builds resilience and resourcefulness. We’ll share updates once the RV repairs are done and let you know how everything is working afterward.
Stay tuned for **videos and photos** (wind permitting) as we continue navigating the ups and downs of **off-grid life**!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #RVLife, #SolarPower, #SustainableLiving, #OffGridChallenges, #DIYRepairs, #GreenEnergy, #TinyHouseLiving, #RVRepairs, #SolarEnergy, #DesertLife, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #SelfSufficientLiving, #AlternativeEnergy, #LivingOffGrid
Unforgettable Christmas Memories – From Farm Chores to Sledding Adventures Under the Stars!
Merry Christmas from Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center!
Growing up on a **small dairy farm in Minnesota**, Christmas wasn’t about extravagant gifts or long vacations. In fact, there were no days off—not even for the holidays. The cows still needed milking, the calves needed feeding, and the barn needed cleaning. But despite the hard work, my parents always found a way to make Christmas special.
I can still remember the smell of something delicious baking in the oven as we bundled up and headed out to do chores. By the time we were finished and cleaned up, the house was filled with warmth and the promise of a **home-cooked meal**. After dinner, we’d gather around and open a few gifts—most years, it was **new plastic sleds**.
Those sleds were more than just gifts—they were invitations to laughter and adventure. After opening presents, we’d bundle up again and head out into the **cold Minnesota night** for a few hours of sledding under the stars. It didn’t matter how tired we were from the day’s work; those moments brought us together and made the day magical.
### **The True Spirit of Christmas**
Looking back, I can’t recall most of the other gifts we received, but I’ll never forget the **smells of baking**, the **laughter at the dinner table**, and the **fun we had sledding in the dark**. Those memories remind me that **Christmas isn’t about the gifts—it’s about the moments we share and the joy we create together.**
At **Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center**, we carry that same spirit into everything we do—building memories, celebrating traditions, and bringing people together.
This Christmas, whether you’re spending it with family, friends, or your campground community, may you find joy in the **simple moments** that make the day special.
**Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of us at Ka-Hoon Campground!**
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#KaHoonCampground, #DesertCamping, #HolidayGetaway, #MerryChristmas2023, #CampfireNights, #FamilyTraditions, #OffGridLiving, #AdventureAwaits, #OutdoorLife, #CelebrateTogether, #WinterCamping, #RusticRetreat, #NatureLovers, #FestiveSeason, #UnforgettableMemories
Limited Memberships Now Open: Join Our Desert Camping Community & Sponsor a Stay!
Membership Program at Ka-Hoon Campground
We’ve received a lot of interest in our membership program, but some concerns have been raised about the fees. While we understand that not everyone agrees with paying for a space, we’ve implemented these fees based on experience and a commitment to maintaining the land and providing a safe, welcoming environment.
### **Why Membership Fees Matter**
Over time, we’ve tried to help people by allowing free stays, bartering, or offering cheaper arrangements. Unfortunately, this often led to disrespect for us and the land. We’ve dealt with broken tents, large amounts of trash, and damaged property. Because of these experiences, we’ve decided that free stays are no longer sustainable.
However, we **do still offer bartering opportunities** and have discounted weekly and monthly rates for members.
Membership fees go toward:
– Maintaining and protecting the land
– Building and adding compost toilets, shelters, and amenities
– Trash removal as needed
– Purchasing additional land for expansion
Our goal is to provide a beautiful space where members can park RVs, vans, or tents and feel at home. Membership ensures that you won’t be asked to move unless you break the minimal rules, and all members have a voice in shaping these rules.
### **Preventing Overcrowding**
To maintain the peace and quality of the campground, we are **limiting the number of membership spaces**. As spaces open up, we will update the availability:
– **5 Spaces Available (as of 12/17)**
### **Sponsored Memberships**
We understand that not everyone can afford a membership but may still need a safe, welcoming space. To help, we’ve introduced **Sponsored Memberships**.
– If you’d like to sponsor someone, you can use the links below. Please **note it’s for sponsorship** when submitting your payment.
– Sponsored memberships are only valid as long as the sponsor continues to pay.
**Current Sponsored Membership Availability:**
– Sponsored Memberships Available: **0**
If you’re interested in applying for a sponsored membership, please **contact us directly**.
### **Why Join Ka-Hoon Campground?**
We offer more than just a place to stay:
– A sense of community in a beautiful, off-grid desert environment
– Input on the rules and growth of the campground
– Affordable rates with flexible payment options
While there are free options, such as nearby BLM land, our space offers stability, a home-like feel, and the opportunity to be part of a community.
**Join us, sponsor someone in need, or explore your off-grid desert home today!**
https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com/membership/
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#OffGridLiving #CampingCommunity #KaHoonCampground #RVLife #VanLife #TentCamping #SustainableLiving #MembershipProgram #DesertCamping #HomeOnWheels #EcoFriendlyCamping #CampgroundLife #SponsoredMembership #BarterOpportunities #NatureLiving
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
How We Live Off-Grid in the Desert: Water, Showers, and Staying Warm Explained in 30 Seconds!
**Living Off-Grid: Answering Common Questions About Water, Showers, and Life in the Desert**
One of the most common questions we receive is, *”How do you get water?”* The answer is simple: we haul it. Typically, we fill up four 5-gallon water jugs at Twice the Ice in town. In the winter, this lasts us about four days; in the summer, we refill every other day, depending on usage and the season.
During summer, water usage increases due to higher temperatures and more outdoor activities. While we’ve hauled up to 300 gallons at a time before, it’s tough on our 1984 F250 truck. With its 7.0L diesel engine, the truck can handle the weight, but the wear and tear on suspension over rugged roads make it impractical. The cost of repairs would outweigh the convenience, especially since most of that water would go toward showers.
### Why Not Install a Well?
Drilling a well is far beyond our budget. Wells in this area are incredibly expensive due to the depth required. One neighbor drilled 1,000 feet, faced multiple priming issues, and spent a small fortune on the project.
### What About Water Catchment?
In theory, water catchment sounds great. In practice, living in the desert makes it less feasible. Rainfall here is sparse and unreliable. One of our neighbors installed a catchment system on their Earthship but eventually uninstalled and sold it because it wasn’t worth the effort.
Many in the area use cisterns to store hauled water, which is something we’ve considered. We currently have the capacity to store up to 1,000 gallons using IBC totes, which is sufficient for our needs for now.
### How Do We Handle Dishes?
We wash dishes much like anyone else: heating water on the stove, using dish soap, and scrubbing in the sink. Some people in off-grid setups use baking soda for “dry washing,” but that doesn’t feel effective to us. We’ve also tried products like Dawn’s dry wash soap, but it was expensive and didn’t leave the dishes feeling clean. We prefer the tried-and-true method of hot water and soap.
### Why Don’t We Show More of Ourselves in Videos?
While these posts and videos share insights into our life, we try to keep certain aspects of our personal lives private. Our content focuses on the campground, the desert lifestyle, and our experiences. We’ve tried featuring ourselves more, but honestly, we lead a simple life. Like everyone else, we have ups and downs—fighting, laughing, getting sick, and loving. We find the beauty of nature around us to be far more captivating than our day-to-day routines.
### How Do We Shower?
We’ve shared a video about where we shower, which is usually every other day. While some people stretch it to once a week, we find that even every other day is pushing it. As soon as we figure out a better way to haul water, we plan to complete our off-grid shower setup.
### Staying Warm in the Desert Winter
Another frequent question is, *”How do you stay warm?”* We use a large Buddy Heater connected to a 20lb propane tank. For safety reasons, we don’t run it while we sleep. Instead, we use it in the evenings before bed and for a few hours in the morning to cut the chill. At night, we stay cozy under blankets, with the added warmth of our dogs. We’ve also installed smoke and CO2 detectors for safety.
### Have More Questions?
We hope this blog answers some of the most common questions about living off-grid in the desert. If you’re curious about something else, feel free to leave a comment or send us a message. We’re always happy to share more about our unique lifestyle.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #SustainableLiving, #SimpleLiving, #WaterConservation, #LivingOffGrid, #TinyHouseLiving, #NatureLovers, #SelfSufficient, #RuralLife, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #MinimalistLiving, #OffGridLifestyle, #SustainableChoices, #BackToBasics
Living Off-Grid: Day 1516 – Embracing the True Spirit of the Holiday Season with Kindness and Giving
Living Off-Grid: Day 1516 in New Mexico – The True Spirit of the Holiday Season
As we reach day 1516 of living off-grid in the New Mexico desert, the days grow shorter and the nights longer. The holiday season is upon us, and it’s a time to reflect on what truly matters. For many, the holidays evoke images of gifts and extravagant celebrations. But it’s important to remember that not everyone celebrates the holidays the same way—or even has the means to.
The holidays aren’t about the cost or popularity of a gift. They’re about giving, kindness, and helping those in need. However, giving doesn’t have to mean donating to charities where only a fraction of your contribution goes to the people who need it most. Nor does it mean putting yourself or your family at financial or personal risk.
### Simple Ways to Give
There are countless ways to embrace the spirit of giving this season:
– **Be kind and respectful.** A small act of kindness can make a big difference.
– **Give intentionally.** Instead of buying flashy gifts your children may never use, consider what they genuinely need or will enjoy long-term.
– **Teach lessons of empathy.** Help your children understand that hardship can happen to anyone—regardless of wealth, job stability, or lifestyle. Life is unpredictable, and we are all just one accident, storm, illness, or conflict away from facing adversity.
### Think Beyond Materialism
This year, instead of rushing to buy the most sought-after items, consider giving in ways that truly matter:
– Donate a blanket or warm clothing to someone in need.
– Contribute to food drives that directly help local families.
– Research and support charities that ensure your contributions go directly to those in need.
The holidays are about more than material gifts; they are about showing compassion, building community, and reminding each other of our shared humanity. Let’s make this season one of kindness, connection, and genuine care for those around us.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#HolidayGiving #OffGridLife #NewMexicoLiving #KindnessMatters #HolidayReflection #SimpleLiving #MinimalistHolidays #EmpathyFirst #GivingBack #CommunityCare #OffGridInspiration #HolidayKindness #LifeLessons #DesertLiving #ShareTheSpirit
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
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 