I am a 51-year old Canadian who used to work in marketing communications, and who recently took an about-face and decided to become certified to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) as the vehicle for living as many places as possible all over the world in my remaining lifetime. I have two children in their 20s and I still own my own house. I have a lovely couple renting from me at the moment which is allowing me to run away and explore the world without worrying about finances and the safety of my property. That's why I understand how critically important it is to have the right people staying in your home.

I am a clay artist, more commonly known as a potter. But, I have been on extended hiatus from my artwork, instead devoting my time and volunteering as a fundraiser and project manager for a large capital project in my home town. I hope to get back to a creative life soon!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I decided to take a look at the possibilities on Couchsurfing because I am always interested in meeting new people and learning about their lives in various places around the world. I am also looking at house sitting opportunities as a way to defray the cost of accommodations during my extended travels.

Interests

• arts
• performing arts
• architecture
• traveling
• restoration
• music
• live music
• electronic music
• sailing
• solo travel
• the ocean
• ceramics
• restaurants
• art museums
• art galleries
• cerveza
• urban design
• ceramic art

Music, Movies, and Books

I love acid jazz, funk, soul, groove types of music as well as dance, a little EDM, etc. I'm not as enthused about rock or rap, but I'm open to listening. I tend to prefer watching dramas either in film or series on Netflix and most recently have been reading less fiction and more books related to learning about people's adventures in the world and how they have changed the paradigms of their lives to live with greater fulfillment.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I suppose my current adventure is one amazing thing I am doing. I decided to rent out my house and take off on my own for an indeterminate length of time to explore Central and South America. I moved to Nicaragua at the beginning of February 2017, became certified to teach English as a foreign language and intend to teach online as a means to fund my travels for as long as my old body will allow!

Teach, Learn, Share

I have a fairly broad skill set and range of experience in such things as project management, marketing and communications, hiring and human resource management, grant writing, fund development, events management, cabinet making, boat building, airplane lamination, clay art, teaching...

I am always eager to learn about history, the arts, culture, food, music... you name it.

I played a major role in building the London Clay Art Centre in London, Ontario - my home town - and I am very proud of what we have accomplished. I invite you to take a look www.londonclayartcentre.org

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm a pretty layed back person who takes most things in stride. Typically, I'm pretty organized and tidy. I am good with some messiness and clutter, but dirtiness will not make my happy. I can cook a few dishes really well and I like doing dishes and vacuuming (it's a form of meditation). I like drinking beer, wine, rum, and tequila along with some joyous dancing. I am quick to laugh at myself when people tease me and I would rather listen than speak.

Countries I’ve Visited

Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba, Dominican Republic, France, Greece, Guadeloupe, Italy, Nicaragua, Spain, United States, Virgin Islands, British

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, France, Nicaragua