CURRENT MISSION

to welcome change with open arms

ABOUT ME

0ver the past 8 years I have lived in a huge city, but my heart and soul lie with nature and the great outdoors. I love hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, horse riding, essentially anything that gets me out of the city.
I'm obsessed with animals and love all critters large and small (although I am still searching for my inner love of cockroaches). I currently work as a dog trainer in Toronto.
I have a degree in environmental science (see love of nature and animals) and anthropology. The two together have given me a unique perspective on the world, which I hope to use to create change. Yes, I am definitely a bit of an idealist.
I enjoy great conversations! I can talk about almost anything, but I am especially passionate about environmental and social justice issues.

PHILOSOPHY

If I had to articulate a personal philosophy it would involve mindfulness and awareness. I think too often we act without really contemplating, or knowing, the consequences of our actions, both on the planet and the people around us. Every day I fight my own ignorance.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

Unfortunately, I don't have a couch to offer right now, but I enjoy meeting up for coffee/dinner. Also feel free to ask me any questions about Toronto/Canada!

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

My first introduction to couchsurfing was during my trip to Indonesia (summer 2012). I was blown away by how friendly, welcoming and open local CS'ers were to meeting me, hosting me, showing me around their city and helping me practice my Indonesian. I have met some amazing friends through couchsurfing and so far my experiences have been nothing but positive!

Interests

Random Assortment:
-Inspiring and challenging conversations
-Great books - nothing better than reading a good book in a park on a sunny day
-Horseback riding
-Painting - I never do enough of it
-Living off the grid - I've always wanted to try
-Laughing and making others laugh
-Trying new food with new friends
-Relaxing massages

• animals
• dogs
• books
• dining
• coffee
• reading
• eating out
• painting
• outdoor activities
• cycling
• equestrian
• hiking
• canoeing
• camping
• rock climbing
• anthropology
• science

Music, Movies, and Books

a small selection of favourites:
Movies: Magnolia, The Fountain, Annie Hall, The Visitor, The Royal Tenenbaums, Kramer vs Kramer, The Big Lebowski, Incendis, Easy Rider

Music: Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Cuff the Duke, Deer Tick, Kasabian, Black Keys, Arcade Fire, Joel Plaskett, Mother Mother, Foster the People, Queen!

Books: (of the top of my head) Franny and Zooey, Salinger's Nine Stories, most of John Irving's novels, The Story of Stuff, The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Climbing Mount Merapi (Java, Indonesia) at night to watch the sunrise from the top of the volcano

visiting Alaska! The most beautiful place I've been to so far.

Teach, Learn, Share

If you have a dog, I can teach you a thing or two about dog training or canine behaviour.

I also make mean cabbage rolls and pierogis, I can give you the know-how!

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, Poland, United Kingdom

•