Work Hard, Live Simply
Welcome to Blue Pumpkin Ranch
Work Hard, Live Simply
Blue Pumpkin Ranch
A Sustainable, Off-Grid Homestead in the High Desert Mountains
In 2019, I embarked on a mission: transforming 40 acres of raw high-desert mountain land in NE Arizona into a fully sustainable, off-grid homestead. It wasn't a whim – it took years of dedicated research and saving before I could finally make the move in January 2023. Blue Pumpkin Ranch literally started from the ground up. My initial setup? An RV for shelter, a basic shed, a small solar array, and essential water tanks. From that foundation, the Ranch has steadily grown. We're now home to horses, chickens, two loyal livestock guardian dogs, and quite a few indispensable barn cats.
The building continues! We're actively tackling projects like expanding our solar power, drilling a much-needed well, constructing a geothermal greenhouse for year-round growing, and adding an outdoor bathhouse. Witness the real process of building an off-grid life from scratch – the challenges and the triumphs. Follow the daily happenings at Blue Pumpkin Ranch on YouTube!
YouTube Channel & Blog
My own adventure into off-grid living didn't start in a vacuum. I found immense inspiration watching homesteaders like John (Frugal Offgrid), Jonathan & Ashley (Tiny Shiny Home), and Don (Affordable Desert Living). Seeing their diverse approaches – families, singles, young and old – gave me courage.
Yet, as an older, single woman starting out, my path felt unique. That's precisely why I decided to share the Blue Pumpkin Ranch story on my YouTube channel. I wanted to offer my perspective and hopefully encourage others, particularly women, who dream of making a similar leap of faith.
Believe me, there were plenty of skeptics when I first landed here, warning about the harsh realities of off-grid life in the high desert. In the winters it can drop below zero and can reach 100 degrees in the summer. Some probably wagered I wouldn't last a year! But heading into year four, I'm proud to say I'm not just getting by; I'm truly thriving.
Come see what it's really like – follow the journey and join the adventure!
I like this little life....
Real World Collaboration
Hands-On Environmental Science Programs
Blue Pumpkin Ranch has partnered with Sierra Gifted Environmental School, an innovative online platform for curious and creative thinkers in elementary and middle school who are passionate about the environment. I will be teaching a hands-on environmental science classes and camps throughout the year. Using the creative design process, students will explore issues relating to sustainability, including waste, water, food, energy, and climate resilience.
Blue Pumpkin Ranch will serve as a real-world laboratory for the students.
In Loving Memory
My Dad
Blue Pumpkin Ranch would never have been possible without the support of my friends and family, especially my father, who passed away in January 2024, a little over a year after I started this journey. My dreams scared him, but he loved me enough to support me and cheer me on through every setback and triumph. He taught me the value of hard work, integrity, and unconditional love.
He was an amazing man, and I miss him every day.