**Life at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun: A Busy Season Ahead**
Things have been bustling here at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun, and while progress on building projects has slowed, it’s for good reason. Between running Anne to work, welcoming a few new members to our **off-grid membership program**, and preparing for upcoming gigs with Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band, we’ve had our hands full!
The membership program has been gaining traction, offering people the opportunity to experience off-grid living, set up a base camp, or start a homestead in the serene New Mexico desert. With a few members already settled in and new campers arriving, the community is steadily growing.
Our band has also been keeping us busy. With gigs on the horizon, we’re dedicating much of our time to rehearsing and fine-tuning performances to ensure every show delivers a unique and memorable experience.
### Explore Off-Grid Living and Camping Opportunities
If you’re interested in exploring off-grid living, **our membership program** might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a fantastic way to experience this lifestyle without the commitment of purchasing land. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful camping spot or a chance to join a supportive community, we have options for you.
To learn more about our membership program, camping opportunities, or to keep up with what’s happening at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun, visit our website:
**[www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com](http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com)**
We look forward to welcoming more like-minded adventurers to our off-grid community!
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#OffGridLiving #DesertCamping #VanLifeCommunity #Homesteading #SustainableLiving #NatureEscape #CampgroundLife #SimpleLiving #EcoFriendlyLifestyle #StarryNights #RuralRetreat #FreedomLifestyle #DesertHomestead #CommunityLiving #ReconnectWithNature
Tag: Sustainable living
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
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
Living on a New Mexico Mesa: Off-Grid Life, Nature, and Freedom in the Desert
**Embracing Life on the Mesa: A Journey Back in Time**
Living on top of the mesa, where time seems to have forgotten, brings a certain magic to everyday life. Imagine sitting by the window with a warm cup of coffee, gazing out over the vast desert landscape. It’s easy to envision scenes from an old Western—perhaps a cowboy gathering cattle in the distance or a native hunter silently moving through the brush. Out here, imagination feels closer to reality, and the echoes of the past blend seamlessly into the present.
Some people might think our way of life is unusual; others might commend us for following our vision. But ultimately, this way of life is deeply personal and meaningful for us.
When we first settled on our land, we felt a profound need to honor the land’s history and those who came before us. So, we sought the ancestors’ approval, asking them to protect and guide us as we embarked on this journey. Our promise to them—and to ourselves—was to care for the land, respecting its natural beauty and spirit.
In creating our off-grid campground and event center, we wanted to offer more than a simple place to stay. We envisioned a haven where people could truly be themselves, free from the judgments and confines of conventional life. A place where like-minded individuals could gather, form connections, and build a small, supportive community.
Life on the mesa isn’t without its challenges. But every gust of wind and every grain of sand carries with it a story, a reminder that we’re part of something larger. Our goal is to share that experience with others, offering a place of belonging and freedom, rooted in respect for the land and each other.
So, whether you’re a traveler seeking solitude or a soul in search of community, we invite you to come and experience the mesa—a place where history, nature, and freedom unite.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #MesaLife, #DesertCampground, #NewMexicoLife, #DesertLiving, #NatureCommunity, #HistoricMesa, #LiveFree, #OutdoorLife, #UniqueGetaway, #SoulOfTheSouthwest, #MesaSunset, #BackToNature, #FreedomLifestyle, #Unplugged
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
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 