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
——
#SnowInTheDesert #DesertWinter #OffGridLife #SolarPower #EnergyConservation #WinterWonderland #RVLife #DesertSnow #KaHoonCampground #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #SustainableLiving #EcoFriendlyLiving #MinimalistLife #SolarPanels #CabinFeverFree
Tag: plateau-hame-de-colquhoun
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
——
#LifeOffGrid #WinterInTheDesert #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #KaHoonCampground #DesertLiving #SolarPower #EnergyConservation #RVLife #OffGridLife #WinterStormWatch #MinimalistLiving #EcoFriendly #PropaneHeating #SustainableLiving #NewMexicoDesert
Dreugan’s Journey: From Rescue Pup to Loyal Protector | Life at Ka-Hoon Campground & Plateau Hame
**Dreugan’s Story: Our Lovable Protector with a Gentle Heart**
Dreugan may look intimidating, but beneath that tough exterior lies a sensitive soul who’s deeply connected to our emotions. He’s fiercely loyal and protective of our family, especially me, yet he’s surprisingly gentle and perceptive. Whenever another dog misbehaves, he’ll climb on top of me, as if trying to communicate what happened. This has been especially helpful as Weillow, our older dog, has started showing signs of doggy dementia, sometimes having accidents indoors. Dreugan has become our gentle alarm, alerting us to these moments with compassion.
We found Dreugan when he was just four weeks old. Someone posted a litter of puppies for sale, and though we hadn’t planned on adopting, we felt drawn to these little pups. When we arrived, only two puppies remained. One approached us eagerly, but the other hid, clearly frightened. While the first seemed friendly and easygoing, the one hiding—Dreugan—was anxious and unsure. He nipped at people, clearly in distress, and I knew in that moment he needed us.
Raising Dreugan hasn’t been easy. He’s a 3/4 Husky and 1/4 Rottweiler, a mix that brings out his strength and independence. He’s broken my finger, given me rope burns, and had his share of stressful moments, especially around other dogs he doesn’t know. But with patience, reassurance, and a lot of love, he’s grown into a wonderful companion. Although he doesn’t show affection in typical ways and sometimes acts indifferent, he also sneaks in moments of softness—like cuddling with our new puppy, Vibria, when he thinks no one’s watching.
We may have unknowingly supported backyard breeding by adopting him, but we’re thankful he came into our lives. Dreugan is proof that even the toughest-looking dogs can be big-hearted protectors, bringing out the best in all of us.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
——
#KaHoonCampground, #PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #RescueDog, #HuskyMix, #ProtectiveDog, #DogAdoption, #DoggyDementia, #DesertLife, #OffGridCommunity, #LoyalCompanion, #HomesteadLife, #NewMexicoLiving, #CampgroundLife, #DogStories, #DesertHomestead
Unforgettable Weekend: Advocatus Diaboli Live & Rangoli Celebration at Ka-Hoon Campground!
**Embracing Community and Celebrations at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun (Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center)**
It’s been a whirlwind weekend here at Ka-hoon Campground and Event Center! Last Friday, Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band rocked Albuquerque, keeping us out until the early hours of the morning. We returned home around 3:30 a.m., knowing we had just a few hours of sleep before getting everything ready for our much-anticipated Rangoli celebration.
Despite the exhaustion, we managed to unload the trailer, prep the firepit, and kick off another memorable Rangoli. This event, where we gather to draw our intentions around the fire, dance, walk, and stomp them into the ground, always brings our community together in a meaningful way. Though we thought our tiredness would cut the evening short, the energy of the Rangoli kept us going until midnight, longer than we’d expected!
Are you interested in joining a like-minded community in the New Mexico desert, with endless skies and stunning views? At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we’re more than a campground; we’re building a homesteading community that lives off-grid and supports one another. With our **Membership Program**, you can set up your own homestead, enjoy exclusive events, and truly be a part of something unique.
Join us, and become part of our growing community! For more details, visit our
https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com/membership
——
#KaHoonCampground #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #NewMexicoLiving #DesertHomestead #OffGridLife #CommunityEvents #AdvocatusDiaboli #GrimLeaferBand #RangoliCelebration #DesertViews #OffGridCommunity #HomesteadingLife #NewMexicoDesert #JoinOurCommunity #CampgroundLife
Ka-Hoon Campground: Embracing Desert Life in New Mexico’s Rugged Winds
Life in the Desert: Facing the Winds at Ka-Hoon Campground
Today’s desert winds are picking up at nearly 30 mph gusts, reminding us how intense the weather can be in this unique landscape. Here at Ka-Hoon Campground, we’re well-acquainted with the challenges the desert throws our way. One of the harshest aspects of desert living is coping with these relentless winds, especially since we have few natural windbreakers like trees.
The winds can be particularly daunting for newcomers and campers visiting our community. With our wide-open spaces, the wind picks up speed easily, creating conditions that can feel downright fierce. For RV campers and tent campers alike, a strong gust is enough to test the stability of everything, from stakes in the ground to tents and pop-ups.
We’re preparing to welcome some campers today and are hopeful they won’t face too much difficulty setting up. We always recommend our campers to double-check their setup, secure anything loose, and prepare for gusty days. With a little planning and respect for nature, even the wildest weather can become part of the adventure.
Life here in the desert is a blend of beauty and resilience. From the breathtaking views to the raw power of the wind, every day is a reminder of why we choose this minimalist lifestyle. As we continue to adapt and welcome others into our off-grid desert community, each windy day is just another part of the journey at Ka-Hoon Campground.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
——
#KaHoonCampground, #DesertLife, #WindyDays, #DesertCamping, #NewMexicoAdventures, #CampgroundLife, #RuggedLiving, #OutdoorAdventure, #WindyWeather, #RVCamping, #OffGridLiving, #ExploreNewMexico, #NatureChallenges, #CampingCommunity, #EmbraceTheElements
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
—–
#OutdoorMovieNight, #DesertLife, #StarryNights, #CommunityGathering, #SimpleJoys, #DesertLiving, #MovieUnderTheStars, #OutdoorEntertainment, #CampfireVibes, #DesertCommunity, #OffGridLife, #MakingMemories, #LifeInTheDesert, #NatureConnections, #EveningUnderTheStars
Screw the Lemons, Make a Sandwich: Embrace Life’s Challenges with Humor and Simplicity
Screw the Lemons, Make a Sandwich: Finding Humor in Life’s Challenges**
Sometimes life hands you lemons, and everyone tells you to make lemonade. But let’s be real—who has time for that? I say, screw those lemons and make yourself a sandwich! Life’s challenges are tough enough without being pressured to turn every sour moment into something sweet. So, here’s my approach: when things get tough, embrace the chaos, find some humor, and make a sandwich instead. Here’s why.
### When Life Gets Messy, Go Simple
We all face those days when nothing goes right. You spill your coffee, your car won’t start, and you trip over your own feet. That’s life throwing lemons at you. Instead of trying to concoct some magical “lemonade” solution, sometimes it’s better to go back to basics. Make a sandwich! It’s comforting, it’s simple, and most importantly, it’s delicious. Plus, there’s a lot of power in taking a moment for yourself to just breathe and reset.
### Embrace Imperfection
Not everything needs to be perfect, and that’s okay. Life is messy, and so are sandwiches. You don’t need to have all the answers or fix everything at once. Sometimes, you just need to slap some cheese between two slices of bread and laugh at how crazy life can be. Trust me, it works!
### Laugh Through the Lemons
Laughter is one of the best ways to get through tough times. When things aren’t going your way, take a step back and see the humor in the situation. Whether it’s your overly complicated “lemonade recipe” (aka, overthinking) or the fact that nothing seems to go as planned, a good laugh can make all the difference. Life is too short to be serious all the time—sometimes you just need to laugh at the lemons and move on.
### Make Your Own Rules
Here’s the real lesson: you don’t have to follow life’s recipe. Don’t like lemonade? Don’t make it. Want to add peanut butter to your sandwich? Go for it! The beauty of life is that you get to decide how to handle the challenges thrown your way. When life gives you lemons, you’re allowed to do whatever works best for *you*—whether that’s making lemonade, a sandwich, or just tossing the lemons aside and moving on.
### Final Thoughts
Life’s tough, but it doesn’t have to be bitter. Next time you’re faced with a challenge, remember to take it easy, laugh, and do what feels right for you. And if that means making a sandwich instead of lemonade, then you’re doing just fine.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
——
#ScrewTheLemons, #MakeASandwich, #LifeChallenges, #FindTheFunny, #EmbraceChaos, #HumorInLife, #StayPositive, #PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #KaHoonCampground, #DesertLiving, #UniqueCamping, #OutdoorAdventures, #LaughItOff, #LiveYourWay, #StayInspired
4 Years Off-Grid: Our Journey to Plateau Hame de Colquhoun & Ka-Hoon Campground Begins
Four years ago today, our journey to a new way of life began as we arrived in Belen, New Mexico. That first night, we stayed at Walmart, our trailer loaded with everything we could fit for the next chapter. Early the next morning, we unloaded at a storage unit before making our way to the land that would become our home.
Living off-grid has always been our dream, and settling here felt like the start of something truly special. It’s not just about surviving but thriving in an environment that encourages connection with nature and self-sufficiency. Those first days were a whirlwind of setting up camp, exploring the terrain, and figuring out how to make the desert our home.
Since then, we’ve grown in ways we never imagined. Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center has become more than just a place for us—it’s a place where others can come to disconnect from the noise of the world and reconnect with themselves and nature. We’ve hosted countless events and provided a safe, judgment-free space for people to enjoy the beauty of the desert.
Our philosophy is simple: life is too short to fit into someone else’s box. We’ve built a community where people can embrace who they truly are, free from judgment. Here at Ka-Hoon, you’re welcome to be yourself, no matter what that looks like.
We’ve also experienced our fair share of trial and error along the way, learning that not everything works out as planned—but that’s okay. We’ve adapted, tried different approaches, and ultimately created a space where others can also step back, breathe, and try again. Whether it’s through themed camping nights or unique events, Ka-Hoon is a place to reset and find a new path forward.
As we look back on the past four years, we’re grateful for the challenges, the growth, and the community we’ve built. We invite you to be a part of it and experience the peace, freedom, and adventure that come with living off-grid in the heart of New Mexico.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
—–
#PlateauHameDeColquhoun
#OffGridLiving #KaHoonCampground #NewMexicoDesert #ReconnectWithNature #BeYourself #InclusiveCommunity #NatureLovers #CampgroundEvents #SelfSufficiency #OffGridJourney #DesertCamping #SafeSpace #FreedomToBeYou #CampingAdventures #ExploreNewMexico #OutdoorLiving
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
——-
#PlateauHameDeColquhoun #AdvocatusDiaboli #GrimLeaferBand #KaHoonCampground #MusicInTheDesert #HalloweenHootenanny #KaraokeNight #DesertEvents #TalentShow #LiveMusic #CampgroundEvents #OffGridLife #SpookySeason #CampfireVibes #DesertCamping
Discover the challenges of off-grid living on the mesa, from water issues to extreme weather conditions.
**The Reality of Off-Grid Living: What You Need to Know Before Moving to the Mesa**
In recent years, we’ve seen many people move out here with dreams of living off-grid. The land is cheap, and the idea of self-sustained living is appealing. Many come with plans to farm, plant trees, and cultivate gardens. While not impossible, the reality is far more challenging than most expect—it requires a significant amount of money and resources.
We, too, had hopes of planting gardens and creating a more sustainable environment with trees and flowers. However, we quickly realized that water is the biggest challenge. On this end of the mesa, we simply don’t get enough rain to rely on rainwater harvesting. The soil is incredibly arid, and the intense sun scorches everything in its path. Then, there are the relentless winds. You’ll quickly get accustomed to the taste of sand and how it invades every crack, crevice, and structure you build.
Drilling a well is prohibitively expensive, and while hauling water is a cheaper option, it takes a heavy toll on your vehicle and trailer. Unfortunately, there are currently no local water delivery services, though that may change in the near future.
Living off-grid here also means preparing for extreme weather conditions. Winters can drop to the teens or even single digits at night, while summers bring triple-digit heat. A solid, well-built structure is essential—tents simply won’t hold up to the harsh environment.
Off-grid living on the mesa can be rewarding, but it’s not for the faint of heart. You must be prepared for the extremes and fully understand the challenges that come with this lifestyle.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
——
#OffGridLiving #SelfSustainedLife #LivingOnTheMesa #HarshClimate #WaterChallenges #SustainableLiving #MesaLife #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #KaHoonCampground #OffGridCommunity #DesertFarming #ExtremeWeather #Sandstorms #HaulingWater #RuggedLifestyle
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 