I am a 37 year-old open-minded and forward-thinking gay man who lives in a very conservative state out of personal choice. I have been teaching high-school English for about 15 years and love what I do.

If you'd like to know about me using personality tests, here you go: ENFP; right-brain; True Colors--Blue, Green, Orange, Gold (in that order); Melancholy-Sanguine; Aquarius.

If you'd like to get to know me more in depth, drop me a note. I'm an open-book, so AMA.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I'm a sojourner and wanderer in the metaphorical sense but now would like to experience it. I haven't had a vacation in about three or four years, and this summer is going to be special for me. I plan on taking a four-week road trip throughout the Western United States and I'd like to meet some people along the way. As much as I am valuing the idea of this trip being me, the road, and my thoughts, I know I'll be in need of human and social interaction after a long stretch.

Interests

Movie, music, TV, reading? Yeah, those are the usual for just about everyone. I also like cooking, keeping up with politics and current events, spirituality and religion (not a Bible-thumper nor a bigot), going to a club or a bar (three years recovering alcoholic, however)... Just really laid back. And as long as the company is interesting, I'm down for just about anything.

• arts
• books
• dancing
• causes
• education
• cooking
• clubbing
• pub crawls
• politics
• reading
• tv
• music
• teaching
• religion
• volunteering

Music, Movies, and Books

Lists are so much easier here... So here they are:

Music: Americana roots, bluegrass, blues, rock, folk, alternative, punk, indie, Latin, mariachi, ranchera, alt pop, alt country... Usually nothing in the Top 40... Sort of a music snob.

Reading: Mostly non-fiction (history, politics, current events, psychology, self-help, spirituality, theology, weight loss, health, fitness).

Movies: Comedies, musicals, romantic comedies, chick flicks, documentaries, foreign films, dramas, period pieces, arthouse films.

TV: Netflix and DVR have made this once pleasurable pastime homework.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I am very proud of all the risks that I have taken, meaning that I have not been afraid to buck the trend or do what is best for me. I have managed to become a reasonably well-adjusted gay man in a conservative state, become a successful teacher, and overcome personal tragedy with grace. This summer's road trip will be a celebration of life, and I'd like to meet new friends on my journey.

Teach, Learn, Share

I'm a great cook and would be happy to make you a great home-cooked meal. Also, I'm an open book, so I'd be happy to share anything with you. Learning, teaching, and helping people are my passions in life, so just talk to me.

I like to surround myself with friends and family. I volunteer in community service projects whenever I can and am an activist for several liberal and progressive causes. I enjoy talking about education, politics, spirituality, either at the pub or at home. I like trying new foods, exploring different cultures, dancing, art, and museums.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I've really thought about this. All I can say is that I will share just about any story that you'd like me to share. I will answer just about any question you want answered. What I know I can definitely share is meal with you, either I cook for you or I take you out somewhere that is typical or characteristic of your town.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Dominican Republic, Mexico

Countries I’ve Lived In

Mexico, United States