Originally I am from rural Washington State where I grew up on a small farm. Though I have lived in cities for much of my adult life, I still consider myself a farm boy at heart and I have the stories that go along with that upbringing (the headless chicken story is my personal favorite!). I'm also a runner, I ran in college and continue to run casually. I'm a backcountry backpacker and a fan of good stories.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I first learned about couchsurfing when I was backpacking in Europe. I like to get off the beaten track and meet people in situations where I can actually get to know them. I've loved the experiences I've had traveling and meeting people and am always looking for those opportunities.

Interests

In college, I ran competitively and I still love to run, but I have also expanded my activities to cycling (thanks to a housemate during grad school). Backpacking is also another thing that I love to do. I have hiked through the Grand Canyon, in Denali National Park, and various places in Washington State, as well as parts of the Appalachian Trail and PCT.

• arts
• beauty
• cooking
• running
• traveling
• socializing
• cycling
• backpacking
• camping
• skiing
• track and field
• agriculture

Music, Movies, and Books

I'm a fan of anything written by Wendell Berry, Madeleine L'Engel, C.S. Lewis, Steinbeck, Tolkein, etc. My favorite musicians are Jackson Browne and Bruce Cockburn, also Loreena McKennitt and Sarah McLachlan.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

When I was in college, part of my EPA scholarship included living in Alaska and working with rural tribal communities. Traveling to rural Alaska communities, camping and backpacking in the back country, and meeting with Tribal leaders was an experience that not only was amazing for the natural beauty of the country, but one which has profoundly shaped my view of environmental and social issues around the world. Alaska remains the most fascinating place I've traveled and one to which I can't wait to return.

Teach, Learn, Share

I have spent my life learning about environmental issues, sustainable agriculture, etc. and I love talking about all of it. I also like to share, talk about, and do wood carving, cycling, running, backpacking, etc.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm an avid back country backpacker, a runner, a cyclist, a woodcarver specializing in northwest Native American art, and a good cook and I love to share stories and hear those of others. I'm also handy and enjoy working on projects, so any work that you need done around the house, I can help (except for mechanical work, I'm not good with engines unfortunately).

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Germany, United States