Midwestern American guy, born and raised, I come from a large family. I try to always be optimistic and find the good sides of every situation, place, and person. I prefer the quieter aspects of living, but I am always down for an adventure.

I've been fascinated with Chinese culture for the past ten years, having studied it and the language extensively. I am fortunate that my current job has taken me to China several times already.

On a related note, I love tea. Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Taiwanese, green, pu'er, mate, white, oolong. All of it. If I go more than a few days without a cup of fresh, loose-leaf tea, I start to get pretty anxious.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm on Couchsurfing to meet wonderful people from around the world both by hosting them wherever I live, and by surfing whenever possible.

Interests

Hiking, water polo, reading, running, tea, camping, scotch

• culture
• cooking
• running
• reading
• outdoor activities
• hiking
• backpacking
• camping
• surfing
• water polo

Music, Movies, and Books

Books: I consider myself fairly well-read, with a broad range of interests, but if I had to pick any favorites, I'd say my favorite authors to repeatedly revisit include Vonnegut, Hemingway, Shakespeare, and Heller.

Movies: I have several go-to flicks I could watch almost every day including the Godfather, Good Will Hunting, Casablanca, Legends of the Fall, and Last of the Mohicans.

Music: I enjoy listening to most kinds of music but I am most content to listen to great instrumental music in genres like classical Chinese, Irish, or big band/swing. Though I readily admit I am relatively uninformed when it comes to modern bands and new artists, I am always open to new sounds. One important factor to consider though are lyrics, because I love karaoke and singing in general.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I'm not sure if it qualifies as amazing, but one of my favorite things I've done was a camping trip to the Rockies I did recently with some good friends. Backpacking for a couple of days, waking up every morning next to a fresh, cold mountain stream, and enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

What I Can Share with Hosts

An openness for a variety of different activities, great conversation, love for cooking, and tea.

Countries I’ve Visited

Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Mexico, Qatar

Countries I’ve Lived In

China, Honduras, United States