Why hello, potential new friend! My name is Jill and I'm really excited to get involved with Couchsurfing. I would describe myself as an outgoing, flexible, friendly, open minded, and conscientious person. I get along with almost anyone and really value having a safe and comfortable space...I know how tricky it can be to open your home up to a virtual stranger (especially because I'm a CS newbie) and don't take being hosted for granted. I have a passion for travel and aim to spread love wherever I go.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I absolutely love meeting new people and fostering human connection, as well as exploring new cities so this seemed like an awesome opportunity. Despite all the chaos going on in the world, I firmly believe people are mostly good and true joy is only found in human connection. This is such a unique way to meet people, what better way to get to know someone than by stepping into their world and experiencing it next to them? I'm currently unable to host but once my schedule calms I absolutely love hosting people. Growing up, my mom was basically Martha Stewart and some of those habits have rubbed off on me. Not saying I'll be leaving mints on your pillow each morning, but don't be surprised if I bake you goodies and provide you with the fluffiest towels you've felt in your entire life.

Interests

• dogs
• arts
• culture
• fashion
• burningman
• education
• cooking
• baking
• yoga
• thrifting
• reading
• painting
• alternative music
• teaching
• psychology
• volunteering
• travel
• nature
• spirituality
• biking
• learning
• good conversation
• coffee shops

Music, Movies, and Books

I love alternative and indie music, but can jam along to almost anything. I have a Kindle and finish books weekly. You can find me reading non-fiction about psychology, mental health, education, child development...pretty much anything pertaining to my degree. I also enjoy fiction, especially thrillers like Gone Girl, Girl on the Train, etc. I don't watch a ton of movies, but my all time favorite would have to be The Princess Bride.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

My spontaneity has made me say yes to many experiences I otherwise never would've gone for! I'm not one for early mornings (especially without coffee) but I somehow found myself agreeing to a 4 am sunrise hike in Mexico a few years ago. When I arrived at the base of the mountain I quickly realized I was in way over my head. Everyone else had hiking boots, gloves, extensive hiking backpacks...and all I had was my Nikes and a water bottle. The side of the mountain was smooth rock with only cacti on either side of the narrow "path". It ended up being closer to rock climbing than hiking, and I finished an hour behind everyone else but the view was incredible! I'm glad I did it, even though I could barely walk for the next few days!

Teach, Learn, Share

I love learning through immersion and am always reading up on things that interest me. I know a fair amount about psychology, children, and health related stuff but try to approach all things in life with an open mind. I am happy to share anything I have with you- knowledge, skills, a listening ear.

What I Can Share with Hosts

If I were a guest in your home I would be friendly, clean, respectful, and helpful. I am an independent person and likely won't need much attention, but am more than happy to hang out! I'm open to whatever idea you have in mind for what my visit should look like. Grabbing coffee or a meal together isn't expected but would be wonderful. I am more than happy to cook for you, help you with any cleaning or home improvement projects, and have real, sit down conversations about life. I also give a kickass mani/pedi if your nails are needing some love...and yes, guys can totally get manicures and pedicures too (nail polish optional)!

Countries I’ve Visited

Croatia, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Slovenia, Switzerland, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States