CURRENT MISSION

Experiencing the fullness of life and caring for others in the process

ABOUT ME

I grew up in Nebraska, then lived and moved all around the Midwest (Iowa, Kansas & Missouri) with short stays in France and England scattered in. I'm currently living in Redwood City where I write, edit, and teach yoga. I've completed a course in spiritual direction and started down a path of working in the healing arts.

I am always seeking out new experiences.

I've worked in a bakery, in corn fields, in tech, and in restaurants. I enjoy teaching ESL, editing manuscripts, writing essays, and working with international students.

I like meeting people, reading books, exploring parks, and sharing meals. My most creative work is writing but I also enjoy spending time in the kitchen. I recently started teaching yoga, which has become a deep love in my life. I feel I am currently in a state of expansion and am curious to see where that might lead.

PHILOSOPHY

I believe that each human has a personal narrative and story that intertwines with other stories and joins together in altogether grater tale. I value getting to be a part of that story, and learning about the backgrounds and experiences of others. I believe all humans are worthy of love and belonging.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I foster international relationships and help along the adventures of others. Through CS I have gained connections and friendships that span across oceans and continents. I can't host in my current situation, but hope to the next time I can offer a space.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

I accepted my first surfers from Canada in May of 2011. Since then, I have hosted an assortment of US visitors and have surfed couches in Italy, Switzerland, France, Ireland, London, Prague, and the US. I have met wonderful people and am always excited for my next experience with CS.

Interests

Ever since earning my TEFL certificate I've been fascinated with meeting people from different backgrounds. I enjoy learning new words, tasting new foods, and contributing to discussions. If I had a perfect day it would include peaceful meditation, a scenic hike, fresh fruit, a good book, writing in the sunshine, taking in the sunset, and a star-speckled night sky.

• writing
• dining
• cooking
• wine
• yoga
• running
• reading
• socializing
• teaching
• freelancing
• international relations
• journalism
• parks
• travel
• spirituality
• learning

Music, Movies, and Books

I have a terrible time picking favorites, but some that stick out to me are:

Movies: Sabrina, Roman Holiday, Rear Window, Little Women, Audrey Hepburn, Hitchcock, romantic comedies, such as Love Actually and The Holiday.

Books/Authors: Les Miserables, Till We Have Faces, Phantom of the Opera, Brene Brown, C.S. Lewis, Richard Rohr, Rumi.

Music: My taste in music is varied and includes jazz, singer/songwriter, Spanish guitar, classical piano, folk, and a little bit of almost everything else.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Quit my job to spend three months living in France and two more hopping around Europe solo. It was a strong test of my character and resiliency.

Teach, Learn, Share

I am just beginning to learn French, and can use all the help I can get.
I'm new to cooking, and enjoy learning by experience
I'm a good English teacher and tutor
I have skills in writing and editing, which I share when I can

What I Can Share with Hosts

My love, my laughter, my stories and experiences

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland

Countries I’ve Lived In

France, United Kingdom, United States

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