My husband Tom and I live in a small city in the central part of NH, known as the Lakes Region. Since I'm retired, I have plenty of time to read, cook, garden, hike, play the piano, and study French (not fluent yet, but not just a beginner)

We have a very small farm, keeping chickens (including a rooster) and raising most of our own vegetables. I am a big supporter of locally-produced food.

I am interested in hearing others' perspectives on things including politics, but I don't wish to argue. Tom and I both love discussions about life, spirituality, and other deep subjects. I grew up Catholic but as an adult attended a Unitarian Universalit church for a number of years, serving as the Religious Education Coordinator for the children. I decided I am a Universalist, believing that we are all connected and if there is a "god" he/she/it doesn't have favorites.

Tom has traveled extensively in Southeast Asia, as a young man 50 years ago. He also speaks Spanish pretty well, and plays the guitar and mandolin. See his profile to find out more about him - https://couchsurfing.page.link/AvyHTtogcn6R8ZrK9

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on couchsurfing because we like to meet people, both when traveling and hosting people in our home.

Interests

I am in a french study group that meets weekly, and I listen to podcasts almost every day. I have french ancestry and have always loved the language and France.

My current volunteer activity is being a Trailhead Steward in the White Mountain National Forest. I share information with hikers about the trails, conditions, weather, and equipment, and I get to practice speaking french with hikers from Quebec.

• cats
• chickens
• cooking
• yoga
• gardening
• reading
• puzzles
• music
• backpacking
• canoeing
• camping
• economics
• volunteering
• road trips
• lakes
• travel
• nature
• learning new things
• local food
• french food
• train travel
• cathedrals
• vw bus
• grammar
• boston
• visiting new places
• puns
• wildcrafting
• french language
• geneology
• historical fiction
• grateful dead
• fermented foods
• walking in the rain
• pilgrimage
• hiking in the mountains
• piano playing
• mushroom foraging

Music, Movies, and Books

Like the Grateful Dead a lot, also bands from the late 60s into the 70s, like CSNY, Led Zeppelin, Little Feat, Chicago, Cream, Fairport Convention, and more.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

It's not so amazing, because many have done it, but I have climbed all the over 4000ft mountains in NH, including climbing 41 of them in the winter. I didn't start hiking until I was in my 40s, and have grown to really enjoy it especially in the winter.

Tom and I also drove across the country in a 1979 Subaru station wagon with a two year old, a dog, and a cat, in the summer, with no air-conditioning, in 1983. 5 weeks on the road, camping and visiting family and friends. What were we thinking???? It was a great trip!

Teach, Learn, Share

I love to cook, and often share recipes and tips with my friends. I also do a lot of fermenting, with cabbage beet sauerkraut a staple in our fridge. We have hiked extensively all over NH, and know New England very well so are great tour guides. Tom is a very knowledgeable gardener and plant expert. I am getting better at playing the piano! I read mostly fiction but also some non-fiction. We have done some interesting road trips and have many stories to share.

What I Can Share with Hosts

My perspective on living in the United States during these most interesting times. Stories of some adventures we've had travelling in Alabama, Honduras, and France. French conversation. Willing to cook or help prepare meals. I am a great organizer so can help if that's what a host needs! Tom has extensive gardening knowledge, and is expert at pruning trees and shrubs.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Canada, France, Honduras

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States