I was born and raised in small town Arkansas. After college I went to China and taught English at a University for a couple years. i lived in Chicago for 7 years and I recently moved to Fresno, CA. I love a great conversation and connecting with new people.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I've found that some of the most interesting people I've met are those open to new experiences and taking risks. And I tend to connect pretty quickly with those who travel and open their home to others. So, I'm here to meet folks and to save $ on traveling costs.

Interests

Lately, I've been into Brene Brown and her research on vulnerability and connection. But I tend to bounce around on interests. I studied religion in college. Some of my interests include: ethics, social enterprise, creating affordable housing, trees, environmental issues, community development, hiking/camping, micro-financing, amateur photography (nrt43.tumblr.com), and playing piano.

• ethics
• traveling
• piano
• hiking
• camping
• economics
• religion
• finance

Music, Movies, and Books

I always say my favorite move is Shawshank Redemption. Others include The Green Mile, The Count of Monte Cristo, Inception, and Cloud Atlas.

For music, I'm a big fan of indie folk and indie rock music. Lately, I'm really enjoying The Civil Wars, Bon Iver, The Head and the Heart, and First Aid Kit. Also love Matt and Kim.

I used to read a good bit - been going through a little bit of a slump lately. But my book stuff is here: https://www.goodreads.com/nrt43 A few favorites are Man's Search for Meaning, the Tao te Ching, and East of Eden

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Moved to China at 22 to an unknown city in the middle of nowhere.

Teach, Learn, Share

I really enjoy teaching, whether that's ESL, Biblical / social issues, financial literacy or piano. Or a basic lesson in Chinese. I oversaw the adult Bible class at my old church for several years.

I love learning; it may be my strongest passion. So - I always appreciate learning new things.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm pretty flexible and would be more than happy to help with chores or cleaning.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Bahamas, Belgium, China, France, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong, Japan, Liberia, Mexico, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Ukraine

Countries I’ve Lived In

China, United States