Our First Week Off-Grid: Wind, Snow, Sand & Lessons Learned
Looking back at our very first week on the land feels like stepping into another lifetime. It was October 2020 when we first arrived, ready to begin our off-grid journey in the New Mexico desert. Within just seven days, we were faced with a learning curve like no other—**intense winds, sudden snow, endless sand, curious cattle, and even the destruction of our first outdoor kitchen setup**.
But through it all, we had unforgettable sunsets, wide-open views, and the determination to keep moving forward. Every challenge became a lesson, shaping Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center into what it is today.
Now, five years later, we’re celebrating that journey with something special:
📅 **Saturday, October 18th – 5th Anniversary Open Mic Night**
Join us in person, stay a few hours, book a campsite, or tune in live from home on our **Colquhoun Entertainment TikTok profile**.
We’ve come a long way from those first windy, sandy days, and we’re excited to share where the journey has taken us.
For more information, visit our website:
**http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com**
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#OffGridLiving #DesertLife #TinyLiving #KaHoonCampground #HomesteadJourney
Tag: tiny house living
From Tiny House to Off-Grid Life 🌵 Our First Step Toward Ka-Hoon Campground!
From Tiny House to Off-Grid Desert Life | Our First Art of Tiny Living Video
This vault video takes us back to the very beginning of *Art of Tiny Living*. Long before Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center came to life, we were documenting our journey in a small semi off-grid tiny house in Minnesota.
We had lived part-time in the tiny home for a couple of years before going full-time for three more. The house was unique—it started as a retired fish house purchased from a resort, then transformed into our cozy cabin. We hauled our water, used a porta potty, but had electricity. With repairs, painting, and some building, it became our first real step toward an off-grid lifestyle.
When it came time to move to New Mexico, hauling it wasn’t cost-effective, so we sold the home to the Environmental Center where we worked. Today, it serves as a guest house and staff quarters.
On October 18, 2020, we officially arrived in New Mexico to begin our new chapter. Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center is now our home, our passion, and the heart of our story.
Sit back, enjoy this throwback video, and follow along as we share more vault videos of our journey from tiny home living to desert off-grid adventures.
👉 Learn more about us and our business here:
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#tinyliving #offgrid #KaHoonCampground #campinglife #desertlife
Off-Grid Solar Power Struggles: RV Repairs, Sandstorms & Solar!”
**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
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
How We Live Off-Grid in the Desert: Water, Showers, and Staying Warm Explained in 30 Seconds!
**Living Off-Grid: Answering Common Questions About Water, Showers, and Life in the Desert**
One of the most common questions we receive is, *”How do you get water?”* The answer is simple: we haul it. Typically, we fill up four 5-gallon water jugs at Twice the Ice in town. In the winter, this lasts us about four days; in the summer, we refill every other day, depending on usage and the season.
During summer, water usage increases due to higher temperatures and more outdoor activities. While we’ve hauled up to 300 gallons at a time before, it’s tough on our 1984 F250 truck. With its 7.0L diesel engine, the truck can handle the weight, but the wear and tear on suspension over rugged roads make it impractical. The cost of repairs would outweigh the convenience, especially since most of that water would go toward showers.
### Why Not Install a Well?
Drilling a well is far beyond our budget. Wells in this area are incredibly expensive due to the depth required. One neighbor drilled 1,000 feet, faced multiple priming issues, and spent a small fortune on the project.
### What About Water Catchment?
In theory, water catchment sounds great. In practice, living in the desert makes it less feasible. Rainfall here is sparse and unreliable. One of our neighbors installed a catchment system on their Earthship but eventually uninstalled and sold it because it wasn’t worth the effort.
Many in the area use cisterns to store hauled water, which is something we’ve considered. We currently have the capacity to store up to 1,000 gallons using IBC totes, which is sufficient for our needs for now.
### How Do We Handle Dishes?
We wash dishes much like anyone else: heating water on the stove, using dish soap, and scrubbing in the sink. Some people in off-grid setups use baking soda for “dry washing,” but that doesn’t feel effective to us. We’ve also tried products like Dawn’s dry wash soap, but it was expensive and didn’t leave the dishes feeling clean. We prefer the tried-and-true method of hot water and soap.
### Why Don’t We Show More of Ourselves in Videos?
While these posts and videos share insights into our life, we try to keep certain aspects of our personal lives private. Our content focuses on the campground, the desert lifestyle, and our experiences. We’ve tried featuring ourselves more, but honestly, we lead a simple life. Like everyone else, we have ups and downs—fighting, laughing, getting sick, and loving. We find the beauty of nature around us to be far more captivating than our day-to-day routines.
### How Do We Shower?
We’ve shared a video about where we shower, which is usually every other day. While some people stretch it to once a week, we find that even every other day is pushing it. As soon as we figure out a better way to haul water, we plan to complete our off-grid shower setup.
### Staying Warm in the Desert Winter
Another frequent question is, *”How do you stay warm?”* We use a large Buddy Heater connected to a 20lb propane tank. For safety reasons, we don’t run it while we sleep. Instead, we use it in the evenings before bed and for a few hours in the morning to cut the chill. At night, we stay cozy under blankets, with the added warmth of our dogs. We’ve also installed smoke and CO2 detectors for safety.
### Have More Questions?
We hope this blog answers some of the most common questions about living off-grid in the desert. If you’re curious about something else, feel free to leave a comment or send us a message. We’re always happy to share more about our unique lifestyle.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #SustainableLiving, #SimpleLiving, #WaterConservation, #LivingOffGrid, #TinyHouseLiving, #NatureLovers, #SelfSufficient, #RuralLife, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #MinimalistLiving, #OffGridLifestyle, #SustainableChoices, #BackToBasics
Discover the Freedom of Off-Grid Living – Join Our Unique Membership Program in the Desert Today!
**Ka-Hoon Membership Program: Build, Belong, and Be Yourself**
At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we’re proud to offer a membership program that arose from the requests of our campers who sought longer-term stays and a sense of community.
### A Vision for Community and Growth
Our membership program is still in its early stages, but its foundation is built on the idea of creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals to live, grow, and connect. It’s a grassroots initiative with the goal of offering members not just a place to stay, but a place to belong—a home base where individuality is respected, and the beauty of the land is preserved.
We envision this program becoming a collaborative effort, with members forming their own board and having a voice in future developments. Every member will get a vote, ensuring that the program evolves with the input and needs of the community.
### Flexible Membership Options
To make our program accessible, we’ve designed it with flexibility in mind. We currently offer daily, weekly, and monthly membership fees to accommodate various budgets.
### What Membership Offers
As a member, you have the opportunity to:
– **Establish a small homestead:** Grow your own garden, raise animals, or create a space that feels like home.
– **Enjoy a safe and welcoming environment:** Be yourself without fear of judgment, while respecting others, the land, and local laws.
– **Be part of something bigger:** Help shape the future of Ka-Hoon by contributing to the community and its growth.
Whether you’re looking to stay for a short time or set up a permanent base, Ka-Hoon welcomes everyone who values respect—for themselves, others, and nature.
### Join Us
If you’re seeking a place to call home, surrounded by like-minded individuals and the beauty of nature, consider becoming a member. Let’s grow together, protect the land, and create a community where everyone can thrive.
Visit our website to learn more about our membership program and how you can join:
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving #DesertLife #KaHoonCommunity #CampgroundMembership #HomesteadLife #NatureLovers #SustainableLiving #CommunityFirst #DesertCamping #GrowYourOwnFood #RVLiving #EcoFriendlyLifestyle #OutdoorAdventure #SimpleLiving #JoinTheJourney
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
Adapting to Off-Grid Living: Challenges and Rewards at Ka-Hoon Campground
Today marks the third cloudy day in a row, and with the heat, it’s been harder to conserve electricity. We’ve been running fans, and the fridge has to work overtime to stay cool. Plus, we spent a lot of time working in the studio. So, it wasn’t a surprise when we woke up this morning to find we don’t have electricity. But that’s fine. Today is cooler, the sky will clear, the sun will come out, and we always have the option of firing up the generator.
Electricity is nice, but we’ve learned to work around these types of days. Before moving here to New Mexico, we lived at an Environmental Education Center where we site-managed and worked on the music production side. We started out in an 8.5×16 fish house that we had converted into a cabin. Before buying the cabin, we lived in tents on the land.
Electricity was limited in our cabin. Though we didn’t have solar power, we did have shore power, but it required running a 200-foot heavy power cable. This meant our electricity was limited; we ran one LED lamp and a TV, and we used propane for heat and cooking.
These experiences have taught us how to adapt and make the most of what we have. Living off-grid has its challenges, but it also offers a unique and rewarding lifestyle that we wouldn’t trade for anything.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #KaHoonCampground, #KaHoonEventCenter, #OffGridLiving, #SustainableLiving, #SolarPower, #TinyHouseLiving, #EnvironmentalEducation, #OffGridChallenges, #NewMexicoLife, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #CampLife, #SelfSufficiency, #MinimalistLiving, #GreenEnergy
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 