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
Tag: off grid living
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
Off-Grid Morning Chaos: Senior Dog Antics at Ka-Hoon Campground That’ll Make You Smile!
**Morning Routines at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center**
Living off-grid at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center comes with its unique set of challenges and quirks, especially when it involves our furry family members. My mornings are anything but ordinary, thanks to Weillow, our 14-year-old dog with early-stage dementia.
Every day begins the same way: I let the dogs out, then crawl back into the warm bed, delaying the inevitable until I need to start the heat. But Weillow has her own agenda. She paces back and forth, ensuring I don’t stay in bed too long. It’s her way of telling me she needs to go outside immediately—or else!
Once she’s done her business, I make her stay out longer than she’d like, just to be sure. My hope is that she’ll return to her warm bed and settle down for a few more hours until it’s warmer outside. But Weillow has other plans.
Within 15 to 30 minutes, she starts pacing again, convincing me she needs to go out—despite just having been outside. Even when I know she’s fine, I still get up, just in case. The real kicker? Once I’m up, she happily goes back to her bed to sleep. It’s her little morning game to get me moving.
The other dogs have caught on to her antics. As soon as I try to send Weillow back to bed, they decide it’s their turn to shower me with kisses and sit on me, ensuring I stay up for good.
These little routines, while tiring, are part of what makes life here so special. Whether it’s caring for our dogs, managing the campground, or enjoying the peaceful desert mornings, every moment adds to the charm of life at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center.
Weillow may be aging, but her determination to keep me on my toes (or out of bed) reminds me to cherish these moments. It’s a reminder that even in the simplicity of daily routines, there’s love, laughter, and a lot of wet noses to keep things interesting.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#KaHoonCampground #OffGridLife #DesertLiving #MorningRoutines #DogLife #SeniorDogCare #LifeWithDogs #CampingWithDogs #NatureLovers #UniqueLiving #FurryFamily #DogMomLife #CherishedMoments #LifeInTheDesert #KaHoonAdventures
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
Off-Grid Desert Living: The Unexpected Challenge of Midnight Trips to the Outdoor Toilet!
**Living Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert: The Challenge of the Hut**
Life off-grid in the New Mexico desert comes with its unique set of challenges, and for me, one of the hardest has been *The Hut*—our outdoor composting toilet. While we use the indoor toilet for liquids now, that wasn’t always the case. The main issue? Navigating late-night trips to the Hut with a pack of eager dogs in tow.
**The Struggle of Midnight Bathroom Breaks**
Picture this: It’s a chilly desert night, and the inside of our tiny home is 10-20 degrees warmer than the freezing temperatures outside. I wake up, needing to use the bathroom, and as soon as I even glance toward the door, the dogs are ready to spring into action.
Now, I love my dogs, but their enthusiasm complicates things. By the time I’ve grabbed a jacket and shoes, they’re by the door, tails wagging, ready for an outdoor adventure. I, on the other hand, just want to quickly take care of business and crawl back into my warm bed.
**Dogs on Their Own Schedule**
Using the Hut isn’t a quick in-and-out experience, thanks to my four-legged companions. They won’t do their business while I’m in the Hut because they insist on guarding me from potential “dangers.” Once I’m done, the real waiting game begins as they sniff around, searching for the *perfect* spot to do their own business.
On a cold, sleepless night, this routine feels endless. Multiply this by five bathroom trips in one night, and you can see why it became exhausting.
**The Solution: A Shift Indoors**
Eventually, we decided to adapt. By using the indoor toilet for liquids, I can now make quick trips without alerting the dogs. As long as I don’t venture past the bathroom, they stay snuggled up in bed, and I can get back to my warm blankets much faster.
**The Takeaway**
Off-grid living is all about finding creative solutions to unique problems. While *The Hut* is a sustainable and practical choice, adapting to the realities of late-night desert life has been key to making it work. For now, the indoor bathroom is a small luxury that helps us balance convenience and comfort in our off-grid lifestyle.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #SustainableLiving, #NewMexicoDesert, #TinyHomeLife, #CompostingToilet, #DesertChallenges, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #OffGridSolutions, #LivingWithDogs, #ColdNights, #OffGridAdaptation, #DesertLife, #SelfSufficientLiving, #RuralLiving, #GreenLiving
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
Life Off-Grid: Challenges and Beauty at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun | Desert Living Insights
**Living Off-Grid: Finding Strength in Life’s Challenges**
Life in the New Mexico desert is a blend of peace and resilience. Surrounded by tranquil beauty and endless skies, it’s easy to find moments of calm. Yet, even in this serene landscape, challenges persist—reminders that living off-grid is not for the faint of heart.
Many people romanticize off-grid living, envisioning it as a carefree escape from modern life. The reality is far more complex. Life here can be harsh and unforgiving, testing our determination and ingenuity daily. However, it’s also profoundly rewarding, offering a connection to nature and a lifestyle of self-reliance that few ever experience.
We’re currently navigating one of those trying times that reminds us why so few have settled this rugged land. From what we’ve learned, not even indigenous peoples made their homes on this part of the mesa—though if you know more about its history, we’d love to hear your insights!
Right now, our RV’s propane fridge has stopped working, likely due to a faulty igniter coil or module. Replacement parts are scarce, and modern alternatives don’t seem to match the original setup. While the fridge runs fine on electricity, the shorter days make it difficult for our solar system to keep up at night. A small backup fridge in the Greenroom helps, but the frustration of troubleshooting and tight finances adds to the weight of the situation.
To add to our challenges, the heater in our pickup has failed, leaving us wondering if the heater core needs replacing. And perhaps the hardest trial of all: our beloved 14-year-old companion Willow isn’t doing well, and we fear a difficult decision may be on the horizon.
Life out here is as demanding as it is rewarding. But it’s during these tough times that we find clarity and purpose. Whether we’re problem-solving through equipment issues or leaning on each other during emotional moments, the beauty of this lifestyle is in its simplicity and resilience.
Even with the hardships, the desert offers a unique gift: a chance to pause, reflect, and remember why we chose this path. Challenges may come and go, but the sunsets, starry skies, and peaceful solitude keep us grounded.
If you’re considering off-grid living, know that it’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. The trials will test you, but the rewards will inspire you to keep going.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #KaHoonCampgroundAndEventCenter, #OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #MesaLiving, #StarryNights, #SustainableLiving, #RVLife, #OffGridCommunity, #SelfSufficiency, #DesertCamping, #SolarPower, #NatureEscape, #QuietMoments, #ChallengingButBeautiful
Surviving a Winter Storm Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert | Energy Conservation & Staying Warm
Life Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert: Winter Storm Watch and Energy Conservation
When people picture New Mexico, they often think of warm days and sunny skies. But here in the desert, winter can bring a real chill, and this week is no exception. We’re currently under a winter storm watch, and three days of cloudy skies have made energy conservation a top priority. Living off-grid, we rely on solar power, which means every bit of energy counts.
### Solar Conservation During Cloudy Days
On cloudy days like these, we make careful adjustments to reduce our energy use and extend our stored solar power. Here’s what that looks like:
1. **No Rehearsals or High Energy Activities**: Normally, our animatronics and music studio take a lot of power, but they’re off-limits on low-sun days. That means no rehearsals or other activities that use a lot of electricity.
2. **Minimizing Device Charging**: We limit charging to essentials only. Staying connected is important, but unnecessary devices stay unplugged until the sun comes out.
3. **Reducing Light Use**: Evenings feel cozier with fewer lights, and the RV’s own batteries provide backup. However, we conserve those too, as the RV’s charging system can drain the main solar battery if we’re not careful.
4. **No Microwave Use**: Our RV came with a microwave, but we found it to be more useful as bread storage than as an appliance! This high-energy device stays off for good.
### Staying Warm Without Power
To avoid using up our propane too quickly, we bundle up in layers instead of running the heater. The propane heater is our last resort, so until it’s absolutely necessary, sweaters, blankets, and hot beverages do the trick.
Life off-grid comes with unique challenges, especially when the weather takes a turn. But with a few adjustments, we can weather the storm and enjoy the desert winter from the comfort of our cozy RV.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#LifeOffGrid #WinterInTheDesert #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #KaHoonCampground #DesertLiving #SolarPower #EnergyConservation #RVLife #OffGridLife #WinterStormWatch #MinimalistLiving #EcoFriendly #PropaneHeating #SustainableLiving #NewMexicoDesert
Experience Off-Grid Freedom at Ka-Hoon Campground & Event Center Membership Program!
Discover the Benefits of the Membership Program at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center
Whether you’re a nomad, off-grid homesteader, snowbird, or simply looking for a getaway, our Membership Program at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the commitments of land ownership.
### Why Join Our Membership Program?
**1. Flexible Camping Options**
If you’re looking for a temporary location to set up camp, Ka-Hoon allows you to disperse camp, bring your solar setup, and create your own little homestead. Membership gives you the flexibility to stay for a night, a week, or even longer.
**2. Affordable Alternative to Land Ownership**
Don’t have the money to purchase land or want to avoid the responsibilities of land ownership? Our campground provides an affordable solution for those seeking a seasonal spot without the high costs of lot rent. It’s a great trail run for off-grid living without the long-term commitment.
**3. Community & Learning Opportunities**
As a member, you gain access to a supportive community where you can learn from others and share your experiences. You’ll also have voting rights and can participate in community events, selling goods, and connecting with like-minded individuals.
### Membership Guidelines
Our program fosters a safe and respectful environment. We only have a few rules to ensure everyone enjoys their experience:
– **Respect Yourself, Others, Nature, and Local Laws:** We ask that all members maintain cleanliness and organization in their spaces. Remember to respect the environment and follow local regulations.
– **No Illegal Drugs or Underage Usage:** We are committed to creating a safe space for all members.
Join us at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, where you can explore off-grid living while enjoying the beauty of nature and the support of a welcoming community. Your adventure awaits!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#KaHoonCampground, #OffGridLiving, #NomadLife, #Homesteading, #Snowbirds, #CampingCommunity, #NatureLovers, #SustainableLiving, #OutdoorAdventure, #CleanCamping, #SupportLocal, #TemporaryCamping, #LearnFromOthers, #TrailRun, #DesertLife
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 