I am a born and raised Minnesotan who loves to meet and connect with people. I enjoy listening to people's stories and sharing my own. I am active and move through the world on a bicycle, or by hiking, skipping, dancing and yoga. I love water and enjoy our 10,000 lakes in Minnesota. Kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding, canoeing are all wonderful ways I explore the waters. Music is a thread that connects me to people and experiences. I love to listen to, share and explore music with people. There are very few types of music that I don't enjoy. I have a good eye for light, shadows and the optimal photo. I enjoy playing with photography. I am a Zen Buddhist and meditation is part of my life. Lastly, I am a mother of 2 young, adult men who are finding their way in the world.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I want to travel more and meet people. I have run into multiple people who have praised Couchsurfing and have said that there is no better way to meet people and have organic experiences.

Interests

• photography
• dancing
• vegan
• yoga
• meditation
• reading
• music
• hiking
• canoeing
• kayaking
• camping
• swimming
• spirituality
• biking
• dancing in the rain
• connecting with people
• cooking together

Music, Movies, and Books

I love movies!!! Many favorites, way too many to mention all. Here are some: Shower, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, The Mask, Under the Tuscan Sun, High Fidelity, West Side Story, Scrooge (with Albert Finney), Little Miss Sunshine...I love to go to international film festivals - we have a great one in April in Minneapolis.

I LOVE music!!! Again, too many types and classics to mention but here are some artists that I love right now (and some I've loved forever): Caroline Smith, Valerie June, The Paper Kites, Neko Case, Bob Marley, The Beatles (Paul McCartney, George Harrison), Peter Gabriel, New Order, The Cure, Los Lobos...

BOOKS! Ahhh, if I could have a whole room full of them, I would! Some favs: A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown,(some authors) Pema Chodron, Deepak Chopra...

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Daily, I work with students with Autism and Cognitive Disabilities. It's pretty amazing and I learn from them everyday.

I became a mom. Best and hardest thing I have ever had to do and continue doing.

At this moment, I am traveling to Italy, by myself to explore and study yoga for a month in Umbria. I received a Fund for Teachers Grant to do this and I am very proud that I did so.

Teach, Learn, Share

I love languages and would love to learn Italian more in depth and other languages as well. I enjoy cooking with people and like to learn new ways and styles of cooking. I do teach meditation and yoga and enjoy sharing that with others. I love the outdoors and would enjoy exploring the tress and waters with people. I know my city well and would enjoy giving people tips for places to go and things to see in the Twin Cities, Minnesota as well as the greater Minnesota areas which are filled with forests, trails, waters and adventures.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I will always be open to sharing my talents, gifts and skills that make me who I am.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Dominican Republic, England, France, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland

Countries I’ve Lived In

Mexico, United States