I'm a wilderness dwelling computer geek. I love technology, and the amazing things it's made possible, including the ability to stream a movie via my smartphone on the deck of my off-grid cabin surrounded by forest. I'm a bit of a contradiction.

I've had more jobs (careers, even) than I can remember to count. I like to think I've done things more for the learning and the experience than simply the paycheque (although I've not refused the paycheque). I've worked with wires, cars, phones and computers in major cities, small towns, on cruise ships and in the Canadian Arctic. I've worked with people, too... educating them, serving them, leading them on dogsled rides and listening to (and hopefully resolving) their concerns.

I'm a bit of a storyteller, eager to share about the weird and wonderful things I've seen and heard. I also love to hear other people's tales, enjoy learning of different experiences, cultures and perspectives.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I love to travel too much to be able to do it the expensive way. Bonus is that the affordable way invariably leads to connections with interesting people... And really, isn't that what travel is about?

In the long term I'd like to also open my home to travellers, although this isn't quite viable yet. But soon! I'll keep you posted...

Interests

Technology (everything from the latest innovative Android app to a brilliant way to repurpose items to generate electricity), nature (it's where I find my peace), animals (I'm particularly good with dogs, both pets and working animals), people (their experiences, both generational and individual, and how that effects their worldview), food (I consider trying new foods to be the safest remaining adventure) ... And a whole bunch of other stuff

• dogs
• culture
• lgbt rights
• dining
• cooking
• motorcycles
• technology
• reading
• camping
• teaching
• travel
• nature
• storytelling
• cuisine
• off-grid living
• cheap travel

Music, Movies, and Books

I can appreciate almost any kind of music. I grew up on classical, showtunes and opera, played in a big band, listened to '70s and '80s pop in my youth, and discovered country and folk when I moved out of the city. Younger friends introduce me to current favourites in an effort, I suspect, too keep me from aging too fast.

I have no TV, and as a result I'm generally out of the loop on current shows and films. There are a few series I download though (currently Supergirl and The Good Doctor), and will happily check out things friends recommend.

Favourite books are generally those that make me think, although I will admit to taking guilty pleasure in the occasional romance or who-dunnit. I'm a slow reader, so thick books must be very good in order to not be intimidating. Even so, I liked City of Joy and The Power of One. Would like to try on some more classics.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Hmm... how does one choose a single experience to tag as amazing? In this particular moment the one that comes to mind was jumping off a cruise ship into the ocean while trusting a flimsy harness and braking pulley to lower me at speeds that would keep me from smashing down at the full acceleration of the 7-storey drop. This was of particular concern, because I'm a big girl and I was over the device's marked safety limit. Clearly I was more curious than scared, but just barely. That was pretty amazing!

(Oh, and -spoiler alert- it worked)

Teach, Learn, Share

I love to cook, and will enjoy pulling together a meal. I'm happy to help with technology issues (within reason ;D ). I'll eagerly share any knowledge I have that's of interest... I've been told I'm a good teacher, and have done tutoring for a living. I'm always looking to learn about different perspectives and cultures, and am up for sharing stories or philosophical discussions.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Hmm... think I answered this above. Will add more once I've explored this site more.

Countries I’ve Visited

Bahamas, Belize, Denmark, England, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Mexico, Russian Federation, Saint Martin (French part), Sint Maarten (Dutch part), South Africa, Sweden, United States, Virgin Islands, U.S.

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada