I grew up in a little town in Eastern Oregon surrounded by wheat fields. In those halcyon days I read about as much adventure literature, hero stories, and biographies of explorers and adventurers I could. Mark Twain, Jack London, Jules Verne, C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkein, and many, many authors inspired me with their tales of adventures, both realistic and fanciful— and I wanted to have my own.

Jack London's White Fang inspired me with a love for Alaska, which was enhanced by reading Burning Daylight and the Call of the Wild as well. Due to his influence, and because everyone I talked to said that it was a dangerous and profitable occupation, I turned my eyes northward to Bristol Bay and the annual salmon harvest. Three summers I fished there and grew to call the place home as well. Someday I mean to go back and own my own boat and fish again, though for the time being my focus is elsewhere.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on Couchsurfing because, as a frequent overnighter in crowded, busy airport terminals, I've come to realize the importance of a good night's sleep. Not that I'm complaining of course— long, late night payphone conversations in Indonesian and floor waxing machines help keep one from getting too bored, and benches keep one from getting too soft and accustomed to comfort.

However, my real reason for being here is the people. In my travels and adventures so far, the people— and their stories— are often what stay with me the longest. And oh but I love stories.

Interests

• writing
• books
• poetry
• italian food
• chinese food
• indian food
• mexican food
• reading
• music
• classical music
• electronic music
• sports
• soccer
• archery
• food
• sewing
• comic books
• lego
• handicrafts
• handcrafts
• arts and crafts
• carpentry
• fantasy books

Music, Movies, and Books

I will listen to almost anything, though I tend to gravitate toward opposites: rock and classical. My reading taste typically runs toward the classics, though I'm also a big fan of fantasy and mystery fiction, and any sort of "how to" manual is great.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

The most amazing (and stupid) thing I've done to date was the one winter I, in a fit of boredom, decided to go backpacking. By myself, in the snow, poorly-equipped, etc. I just about froze to death. That experience taught me two things: First, Nature is a harsh mistress, and Second, we're more fragile than we'd like to think. It's shaped my perspective in life more than I know, I'd guess.

Teach, Learn, Share

My goal in life is to learn all I can, and share whatever seems appropriate. I'm pretty much open to any question and love to talk about how the world works.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can help some with expenses, but I'm brilliant at helping out. Set me to doing the dishes and you'll hope I'm staying another night. I'll peel potatoes, take out the trash, keep the kids out of the kitchen, whatever you need me to do. Just tell me what and where and how to do it and I'll get it done.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States