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TOILET TALKS

Meet our community of friends, family, collaborators and role models as we ask them the CompoCloset Toilet Talk questionnaire.

Toilet Talk With Christian Blessing

TOILET TALK WITH CHRISTIAN BLESSING

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your lifestyle? (Where are you based, how do you travel or live, and what’s your day-to-day like?)

I retired in 2019 after 35 years in education, more than half of those years in international schools (South America, Europe and Southeast Asia). I taught a variety of grades but for many of those years I was a technology specialist.

My final position was that of Director of Information Technology in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

My wife of nearly 40 years was also an educator, primarily in art. Her final position was Diploma Programme Art Specialist, also in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.

We were avid hikers and backpackers for many years, and have enjoyed exploring the most remote corners of the American southwest, which is why we now call Bisbee Arizona home. 

CompoCloset

Where do you currently use your Cuddy Composting Toilet? (Van, boat, cabin, tiny home - tell us about your space and how it works for you.)

About 20 years ago we purchased a used 13' Scamp camper to allow a bit more luxury. In time it became our home away from home when visiting Mexico, particularly along the western coast of Mexico, along the Sea of Cortez.

I have fully restored the Scamp and upgraded it with 200 watts of solar, lithium iron phosphate battery, super efficient mini-fridge. We are able to boondock for months on end. The only thing lacking, until the Cuddy came along, was a discrete way to manage waste. Our traveling cats are quite alright with a tray of kitty litter - us, not so much so.

What’s your morning routine like when you’re off-grid or on the move? (From breakfast to fresh air - what helps you start the day?)

A slow pour over coffee, hand ground of course.

Coffee or Tea?

Coffee

What are the top 3 things you always keep in your bag or close at hand? (These could be practical, personal, or just plain useful.)

Whole bean coffee with portable hand grinder, portable bidet, true wireless earbuds

What do you listen to while you travel - music, podcasts, or something else? (If you have a favorite playlist or artist, feel free to share.)

John Hiatt, Linda Rondstadt, Rosanne Cash, Assortment of Lanna Thai classical string music

Why did you choose a composting toilet? (What made you decide it was the right fit for your lifestyle?)

Fighting with my spouse over dumping rights with the chemical toilet was always a losing battle.

What does “JustGo” mean to you? (We see it as freedom to explore, but we’d love your take.)  

Just go!

A lesson you’ve learned on the road or living simply:

At 73 years of age I figure the best way to keep moving is to just keep moving. 


Christian supports the Naco Wellness Initiative.

"The Naco Welnness Initiative is a partnership providing health care, garden and wellness education, and economic development to the residents of Ambos Naco (Both Nacos) on the U.S.- Mexico Border in Naco, Arizona (pop. 1,100) and Naco, Sonora (pop. 5,770)...

Founded in Bisbee, Arizona, in 2004, Naco Wellness Initiative began by supplying monthly health services six miles away in both Nacos. Today two health clinics (Casa Saludables) in Naco, Sonora provide basic injury care, triage, and medical equipment loan; exercise, Zumba, and nutrition classes for all ages; walk-in blood sugar and blood pressure screenings anytime; well-being programs for senior citizens; educational opportunities, exercise, and healthy snacks for children; and periodic children’s dental exams. Some of these services now also extend into many Naco schools."

Erica Pugh is Co-founder and Head of Marketing at CompoCloset.