CURRENT LOCATION: Talent, OR and about to head toward the East Coast.

www.parisbattle.com

I'm called Paris. My basics are being 37, male, and looking for good stories. I write what I see, and I like to see as much as I can. I'm on a series of wanderings around the United States, looking to meet new people, have as wide a variety of adventure as possible, and generally learn from the world's diversity of thought and action. By day, I contract my services as a sales consultant, but am currently on something of a sabbatical, exploring new places and looking for possible spots to relocate while I fully embrace my writing again. I'm open to whatever new experiences the road brings me, and actively seeking the unique as I go from place to place. Further insights about me can probably be gained by checking out my ever-expanding blog, whose address is above.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I used to travel a bit when I was younger, but haven't wandered by car in quite a few years. This site was recommended to me by a trusted friend as a resource for getting around America. Currently, I'm doing a large circuit around the US, with stops planned for Nashville, Memphis, Little Rock, Denver, LA, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle, Chicago, NYC, and all points in between.

Interests

Writing, reading, TV and film, generally along the "comic book/sci-fi/pulp/horror/fantasy" spectrum, but with interests that range far and wide. I like exploring new things, playing video games, and finding the history in the places I visit. I enjoy hearing and debating new ideas and meeting people who fight for causes they believe in. I'm at home in quiet environments with intense conversation, as well as loud public places with a few drinks and a simple good time. I could never list all my interests because I'm always looking for new ones. When outdoors, I tend to spend my time hiking and urban exploring. I dabble with Ingress to that end, but I wouldn't call myself a serious player.

• animals
• writing
• books
• causes
• cooking
• drinking
• video games
• reading
• tv
• traveling
• socializing
• blogging
• outdoor activities
• hiking
• history

Music, Movies, and Books

Just a sampling and in no particular order: MUSIC: 80's New Wave, Goth/Industrial, pop music from various eras, 90's Hip Hop, some roots rock, outlaw country, varieties of electronic, and Epic Rap Battles Of History. MOVIES: 90's-era indie films, 70's cinema, particularly lower budget and story-driven, comic book movies done correctly, classic films both regarded and derided, anything John Carpenter has directed, MST3K, and anything I can make fun of. Plus all the standard geek standbys: Star Wars, Trek, Dr Who, Firefly, etc. BOOKS: Most non-fiction these days, humanist works like Richard Dawkins and Howard Bloom, some hard science as well as historical works; any recent articles about current archaeological discoveries, and occasionally a newly discovered graphic novel. Nietschze when I'm feeling grumpy, Byron when I'm feeling triumphant, and cracked.com when I need a laugh.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

About eight years back I indy-published my own comic book. It was good. Of course, the company I worked for went belly-up because 2008 and I never could finance it past the first issue. But it was good. I might try that again someday.

Teach, Learn, Share

I enjoy learning about new people, new ideas, and new ways of living. I also like sharing the stories that I've already collected. The more unique the better. I'm open minded and non-judgmental, and in my life I've spent time with everyone from Mormons and cops to anarchists and librarians. I'm comfortable around the unusual and respectful of everyone's beliefs, despite my confrontational writing style (a spirited discussion on the duality of my attitude is always welcome). I enjoy getting into local environments, and meeting people who can show me the secret places of any town that I would normally miss. I'm comfortable with all types of animals and children.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm a conversationalist about any subject I've ever been interested in. I love good stories, and I love to share my own. I'm honest and forthright, as I always figured being a liar takes a lot of effort best spent for other things. I don't like seeing people work by themselves and I was always taught to clean up after myself, so any host could expect help with the housework. I have a lot of domestic experience; cleaning, cooking, yard work, basic carpentry, etc. I love to pitch in and help, particularly if there's some project that requires creative solutions. Any host could also wind up as a part of my story, and written about in my own style, if that's the sort of thing you're interested in.

Countries I’ve Visited

United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States