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 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 TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube!
YouTube, TikTok & Instagram
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 YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. 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 the desert off-grid life. Some probably wagered I wouldn't last a year! But heading into year three, 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....
Exciting News!
Blue Pumpkin Ranch has partnered with Sierra Gifted Environmental School, an innovative online school for gifted students in grades 4th-7th who are passionate about the environment. I will be teaching mathematics and environmental science and BPR 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, Dean Mielke, 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,