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Why We Chose Off-Grid Living 🌿 Turning Challenges Into Freedom, Simplicity & Inspiration Every Day

Off-Grid Inspiration: Finding Freedom in Simplicity

Living off-grid is more than just a lifestyle choice — it’s a journey of **resilience, creativity, and freedom**. Every challenge faced without relying on the grid becomes a reminder of what we’re truly capable of when we step outside the ordinary.

When you live off-grid, every sunrise brings new lessons. From building systems that power our homes, to reusing resources in creative ways, each step moves us closer to a life of independence and sustainability. It’s not always easy. Harsh weather, repairs, and unexpected setbacks can test our patience. But those very challenges become the source of strength and inspiration.

The heart of off-grid living is **connection** — to the land, to nature, and to ourselves. It’s about slowing down enough to notice the sound of the wind, the rhythm of rain, or the stillness of the stars above. In those quiet moments, we discover that we don’t need as much as we once thought.

For us, inspiration comes from knowing that every system we build — from solar setups to water collection, from gardens to simple off-grid showers — is another step toward **freedom and sustainability**. Each project carries a purpose: to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live in harmony with the environment.

Off-grid living isn’t about running away from the world. It’s about creating a life where **freedom, resilience, and nature all work together.** And that’s the kind of inspiration worth sharing.

http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com




#OffGridLiving #HomesteadLife #SustainableLiving #FreedomLifestyle #EcoInspiration

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West Mesa Ancestral Magic

We’ve been told the mesa holds ancient magic — a power that predates us all. Where it came from, I don’t know. But I believe it’s real. There’s something about this place that feels alive, almost sentient.

When I was a child, I visited my favorite museum on Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota. It was there I met an old Sioux woman. She told me something that stayed with me my entire life — that where two rivers meet is sacred. Protected. Watched over by unseen forces.

Here on the West Mesa, we are flanked by rivers on both sides. And not far to the south, they meet. That energy — sacred and powerful — is in the land.

A very wise local man, someone we deeply respect and who’s lived here longer than anyone else we know, once told us something even more curious. He said the mesa itself has a will. It can approve of you… or reject you. And even if it approves, it still makes you work for your place here. You must prove yourself worthy to stay.

If the mesa doesn’t approve? Well, we’ve seen what happens.

Some people go mad — slowly at first, hanging on for years before their grip slips. As I like to say, their cheese finally slides off their cracker. Others unravel much faster. This place doesn’t just test you — it chooses you.

There is magic here. Ancestral magic. Whether it comes from the land, the rivers, the spirits, or something older — I may never truly know. But I respect it. And I know better than to ignore it.

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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

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Embracing Off-Grid Living: Inspirational Stories from the New Mexico Desert

 **Embracing Off-Grid Living: Inspirational Stories from the New Mexico Desert**

Step into the captivating world of off-grid living in the majestic New Mexico Desert!  Discover the awe-inspiring journeys of individuals and families who have chosen to embrace sustainable practices and forge a profound connection with nature.

 **Living in Harmony with Nature:** Explore how off-grid living allows for a deeper connection with the natural world through sustainable practices like solar power and water conservation.

 **Finding Freedom:** Experience the liberating journey of breaking free from societal norms and embracing a life of self-reliance and independence amidst the tranquil solitude of the desert.

 **Challenges and Resilience:** Witness the remarkable resilience of desert dwellers as they navigate the unique challenges of off-grid living, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before.

 **Community and Connection:** Delve into the thriving off-grid communities that foster mutual support, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to sustainable living in the vast expanse of the New Mexico Desert.

 **Embracing Simplicity:** Rediscover the joy of simplicity as off-grid living offers a reprieve from the complexities of modern life, allowing individuals to focus on what truly matters and find fulfillment in the serenity of desert living.

As the sun sets over the horizon, let the inspirational stories of off-grid pioneers inspire you to embark on your own journey of sustainable living and embrace the beauty of desert living. 

http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com

#OffGridLiving #NewMexicoDesert #SustainableLiving #NatureConnection #FreedomInNature #Resilience #Community #Simplicity #KaHoonCampground #plateauhamedecolquhoun #eventvenue #eventcenter #offgrid #NewMexico #Desert #DesertLife

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Off-Grid Living: Insights from Families in the New Mexico Desert

Embracing Off-Grid Living: Insights from Two Families in the New Mexico Desert

In the heart of the New Mexico Desert, off-grid living takes on a whole new meaning. Join us as we delve into the experiences of two families who have chosen to embrace this unique lifestyle. From sustainable practices to the challenges and rewards of desert living, discover the insights they have to share.

Off-Grid Lifestyle in the Desert:
Living off-grid in the New Mexico Desert presents a myriad of challenges and opportunities. From harnessing solar power for energy to conserving water and embracing sustainable practices, these families have mastered the art of self-sufficiency in the desert landscape.

Despite the vast expanse of the desert, off-grid living fosters a sense of community among like-minded individuals. These families come together to share resources, knowledge, and support, creating a tight-knit community bonded by their shared commitment to sustainable living.

Living off-grid in the desert is not without its challenges. Harsh weather conditions, limited resources, and the need for self-reliance require careful planning and resilience. However, amidst the challenges lie abundant rewards – the freedom to live in harmony with nature, the satisfaction of reducing environmental impact, and the unparalleled beauty of the desert landscape.

Through their off-grid journey, these families have learned valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of living in harmony with nature. From embracing simplicity to cultivating a deeper connection to the land, their experiences serve as inspiration for others seeking to embark on a similar path.

As the sun sets over the New Mexico Desert, the off-grid families reflect on their journey with gratitude and humility. Despite the challenges they face, they remain steadfast in their commitment to living in harmony with the land. Their story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of off-grid living in the desert.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
#OffGridLiving #NewMexicoDesert #SustainableLiving #OffGridCommunity #SolarPower #WaterConservation #SelfSufficiency #DesertLandscape #Resilience #HarmonyWithNature