I am a City Planner in Wildwood, Missouri, looking to pay it forward after experiencing incredible generosity in my own travels. In 2015, my former partner and I cycled from Ireland to Croatia, staying with hosts in every country and meeting with city planners in many of the places we visited. While our website has since been deactivated, the stories live on! My most recent adventure was not on a bike, but I traveled solo from St. Pete, Florida to the Arctic Ocean (Tuk) and then to Fairbanks, Alaska, where I spent the winter sled dog handling/mushing. That's where I met Chris, my partner, who was formerly an off-grid homesteader and is presently an inventor in the alternative energy sector.

We are presently living in what used to be a three-season 1920's cabin back in the days this area was a major retreat destination and mobster hangout. It is rumored to have been used by Al Capone, the infamous gangster, as a summer escape. It is now good for all seasons and backs up to Castlewood State Park, with incredible views from a ridge overlooking the Meramec River. We presently have one twin bed, a couch, and some good floor space (could squeeze in maybe two or three sleeping bags). During warmer times of the year, you could probably even tent camp up the hill behind the house around our fire pit. You are also welcome to put a tent up on our back deck. There are plenty of trees for hammocks! We have a shared bathroom. We have a washer and dryer, which I am happy to let you use, along with detergent. Bicycles can be secured in the basement crawlspace area, which is locked. We do have one cat (super friendly and lovable) and Chris's service dog, a black lab mix. I am a non-smoker. If you smoke, please do it outside. I do have a gluten-free household, so I ask that you not eat any gluten items in your possession in my home.

Chris and I are happy to show you around. I know a little French and Spanish, but don't use it very much, so just know it would be a smattering of English, charades and that language if it is your primary. I also know functional sign language, and Chris a little more so.

I understand long-term traveling, so if you are looking for a couple days of downtime, just ask. We will do our best to accommodate depending on what is happening here.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I am on Couchsurfing, because I believe it to be an amazing community of people who care about people and planet. When we all adopt a "pay it forward" mentality instead of a "what's in it for me?" doors open to greater possibilities. I have experienced it myself, firsthand.

Interests

Generally, I am interested in all adventures, big and small.

• writing
• education
• reading
• blogging
• guitar
• cycling
• hiking
• nature
• cities
• exploring
• local food
• urban planning
• local history
• community building
• urban exploring
• journaling
• urban farming

Music, Movies, and Books

My hands down favorite book of all time is The Alchemist, though after the last couple of years, I may have finally outgrown it.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

See my "About Me."

Teach, Learn, Share

I am currently learning guitar. I am interested in local planning issues. Chris has a machine shop, 3D printer, and all kinds of gizmos. He is always happy to teach new skills to those who have an interest. He also has a wealth of knowledge living off-grid in the Alaskan wilderness.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can offer friendship, travel stories and insights into urban planning and community issues. I'm also happy to help out with meal prep, house chores, and anything else that might be helpful to you during my stay.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Canada, Croatia, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Slovenia, Switzerland, Wales

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States