**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
Tag: RV life
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
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
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
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
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#KaHoonCampground, #DesertLife, #WindyDays, #DesertCamping, #NewMexicoAdventures, #CampgroundLife, #RuggedLiving, #OutdoorAdventure, #WindyWeather, #RVCamping, #OffGridLiving, #ExploreNewMexico, #NatureChallenges, #CampingCommunity, #EmbraceTheElements
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
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#ScrewTheLemons, #MakeASandwich, #LifeChallenges, #FindTheFunny, #EmbraceChaos, #HumorInLife, #StayPositive, #PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #KaHoonCampground, #DesertLiving, #UniqueCamping, #OutdoorAdventures, #LaughItOff, #LiveYourWay, #StayInspired
Ka-Hoon Campground: A Unique Desert Escape for Solo Travelers, Campfire Nights, and Adventure
At Ka-Hoon Campground, we’re often asked why we don’t offer free stays or create a long-term living community for individuals seeking a place to settle. While we respect the concept, it’s not what we envision for our space. Ka-Hoon is designed to be a place where you can enjoy short-term stays, feel valued for your individuality, and engage with the natural surroundings while respecting and protecting the land.
Our campground offers a unique experience where you make your stay your own. Whether you’re looking to socialize around the campfire, listen to music, share a potluck, or simply relax in your campsite, we offer the flexibility for you to enjoy your time how you wish. You can also take a peaceful hike, soak in the desert atmosphere, or join in our scheduled events.
Throughout our journey, we’ve lived in various places and often felt isolated, even when surrounded by other campers or RVers. At Ka-Hoon, we aim to foster a welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of community, even if it’s just for a night. Come stay with us and experience a place where individuality is celebrated, and connections are made.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#KaHoonCampground, #NewMexicoCamping, #DesertRetreat, #CampLife, #OffGridLiving, #OutdoorAdventure, #CommunityCamping, #CampfireNights, #UniqueCamping, #NatureGetaway, #NomadLife, #RVLife, #SoloCamping, #CampingCommunity, #HikingAdventures
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 