I moved to Guatemala without ever having visited and barely having practiced my intermediate-level Spanish in 15 years. Over the course of 11 1/2 months living by Lake Atitlán I became comfortably if not perfectly fluent, I learned how to connect with and survive well in a very different culture from my own; I became capable of so many unexpected things because of the nature of rural, non-Westenized living; and I became physical, and physically fit, after a lifetime of deeply sedentary living. It was the most amazing and empowering experience of my life to date and propelled me to go out and experience way more of the world with just a backpack, a little money, a love of people and good food my brains, my smile, and my great big zest for life and learning. I've been traveling full-time with my backpacks since mid-December. 3 states in Mexico, then Chicago, then... ?

See my Facebook page! Many of my posts are public because I love to learn and share. It's a good intro to the authentic things about me that I naturally share with all.

I have a way of getting along with most people, it's rare that someone just flat doesn't like me although it happens; not all humans like all humans. I have excellent listening and communication skills. I understand a wide variety of things from academics to energy healing to cooking and, always, laughing. I love to teach and to learn new recipes. I can make you some mean garbanzo beans in a variety of styles. I strive to be someone you enjoy having in your environment and I share from the heart my experience, knowledge and passion for living well with compassion and love. I just try to bring the good wherever I go.