I am a retired Training Officer from Cal Fire (California State Fire Department) living in Colorado. I am a divorced (36 years of marriage) single wanting to travel and attend functions that celebrate life (events, concerts, etc.). I collect classic cars and work on my own collection. I also do landscape design and installation as this area is growing with new residents. One thing I don't do is cook. Never found enjoyment in it. So, I eat simple, but can Barbeque with the best. I am low key, and low maintenance. When I travel back to California (I have a rental house) I am a working vagabond, whether it be construction or vehicle repair for my hosts. Makes me feel that my skills are still useful. At Texas A & M I was an instructor for Enhanced Incident Management (Incident Command for large scale incidents). I have been in Colorado since 2018 and was asked to be the Director of the Fire Academy at Technical College of the Rockies, which was quite a challenge since the college had nothing to start with. I was very proud of what I was able to put together (curriculum, physical props, and equipment) on a shoestring budget, till the college moved in a different direction and the program was cancelled. Now I plan on spending some quality time traveling and experiencing the world through others eyes. I plan on taking a trip per year where people are celebrating life in some way. Went on a 10 European country trip that centered around Oktoberfest last year and now going to Glastonbury this year. I am a low profile, low maintenance person and like to think that I can see many sides to an issue or problem.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I am not one for hotel glitz and glamor. I travel to see new things and experience new cultures, not to stay inside a room or swim in an oversized pool. I want to be immersed in the lo-cal that I am in and the people that inhabit it. Having a connection with someone would be such a plus to get that local vibe/experience. Saying that, I also think that this program should be a two-way street, with personal compensation of some sort going back to the host as well. Whether it be social, skills, sustenance, etc.

Interests

• https://www.blackcanyonclassics.org/

Music, Movies, and Books

80's Rock, Allan Parsons Project - but almost all music has a place in my collection. Quite eclectic.
Action/Adventure, Sci/Fi, Classic Blockbusters, Oscar winner movies.
Lord of the Rings books, movies - I even translated Runic and corresponded with my then girlfriend in that language well before anyone thought about making blockbuster movies.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I have worked in almost all aspects of the Fire Service and have been places so remote that no human had seen before. I have discovered ancient archeological sites and unknown artwork - Sacred places. I can also say that I have been credited with saving many lives as either a Paramedic or Firefighter in the 42 years that I was active. One of the most rewarding careers I could have ever chosen. I wish I was physically able to still do the job today. I really did not want to retire.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach, Share, and Learn about life. Sorry, this is so general. I have been a teacher for most of my career. I am no spring chicken and have many skills and experiences that span the last 65 years. I am always interested in other languages, even if I am only in that location for a short time, to work on correct pronunciation especially.

Note: After researching, I am not "Verified", since I do not want to give sensitive info (DOB, etc.) to an unknown entity as I have worked in a protected field and still had my identity stolen. So, I am very protective of it and don't want it floating on the web. I do not want to relive that horror again.

What I Can Share with Hosts

My own personal stories and experiences. My genuine interest in their stories and culture. Hopefully a meal or two - my treat, stimulating conversation, and some exchange of ideas and culture differences.

I would like to gain some knowledge/experiences through current hosts during my upcoming trip prior to hosting my own. I then plan to host with some first-hand knowledge to make the experience better for guests and myself.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland