Born in 1962, I got a degree in chemistry and then left for Ireland/England for 2 years to play music (mandolin). Upon return to Minnesota I found a job in the biomedical field which slowly drained the life out of me, so in 1995 I quit that job to move to France to apprentice as a maker of bows for violins, violas and cellos. I returned to the US in 2001, French wife and baby (half US/half French) in tow. We now have a daughter as well, and I work out of the basement building bows and shipping them worldwide.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

It's always interesting to meet people who are from the area you are visiting. I also enjoy the idea that there is a community of like minded people who are willing to make human connections rather than check in to a Motel 6 at the end of a day, get up early and get the hell on the road. Since I gave up donuts a few years ago I find the need to get going right away has diminished.

Interests

I listen to many different kinds of music, still searching for things that will excite me. I cook a bit and enjoy trying new things.

• books
• music
• travel
• food
• old stuff

Music, Movies, and Books

Music on any given day is somewhere between Mozart and Johnny Cash, with stops for melodic pop, a bit of 60's/70's stuff, and many genres of traditional music. For example, this morning I listened albums by to John Hartford, Jaqueline Du Pre, Crowded House and The Bothy Band.
Currently reading The Right Stuff (it's OK), just finished the Gamache series of Quebec crime novels, about to reread Bastard out of Carolina.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Moved to France for five years to learn how to build bows for musical instruments.

What I Can Share with Hosts

An open outlook on life. Conversation, a good ear.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Canada, England, Germany, Scotland, Wales

Countries I’ve Lived In

France, Ireland