CURRENT MISSION

Become immersed in the NZ culture, work toward establishing permanent residency in NZ and bring a little Southern/Midwest USA culture with us (only the desirable parts of the culture). And to slow down to appreciate beauty, laughter and the journey.

ABOUT ME

They would tell you that Travis and I try to minimize any inconvenience we put on ppl. That I am hilarious, love to dance, witty, considerate, all about manners and being polite, and all about food. They would tell you that I am fun to be around and that I have an enormous heart. They also would tell you that I break the mold of a stereotypical therapist-for I am very human and am not afraid to show that.

Travis: I am originally from North Carolina and am the oldest of my 2 siblings. I enjoy sports, billiards, weight lifting, cards, running, and cooking. I went to school in the Appalachian mountains and am a masters level social worker. I am passionate about the outdoors and serving others in a meaningful way. I also love adventure--canoeing/kayaking, backpacking, and even a simple day trip. It is always great to meet new people and I enjoy the many varied perspectives people offer.

PHILOSOPHY

I live my life being honest, leading with my heart, and enjoying the laughs and tears that come with it. I live to be full and choose love rather than fear.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I would love to participate by surfing couches while I am in NZ and being a host when I have a residence.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE
We have only had the pleasure of staying with one host in Auckland who has been more than gracious. We hope this experience is replicated as we travel about this beautiful land.
We had the opportunity to be hosted by multiple people and still stay in touch! This is a much needed resource and has been helpful to us in our travels.

Interests

Connecting with people. Hearing the sound of laughter and joy. Trying new things-and bringing as much beauty into my life as possible. I enjoy hiking, canoeing, dancing, sitting and watching movies, meditating, baking, and loving (particularly my hubby-Travis). I appreciate honest, hilarious people.

• culture
• beauty
• dancing
• dining
• cooking
• running
• clubbing
• movies
• traveling
• billiards
• outdoor activities
• hiking
• backpacking
• canoeing
• kayaking
• surfing
• sports
• social work
• mountains

Music, Movies, and Books

Prince, 60s music, Bluegrass (Avett Brothers, Trampled by Turtles, etc.), Rap, Reggae, Pop
Self-Growth books though it typically takes me two years to read them. Smutt books (romance/comedy novels). Augusten Burroughs; Tom Robbins
Movies: Zoolander, Serial Mom, How to be Single

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Being in the Fern Valley, California with my husband Travis, and seeing a 6 point Elk less than 20 feet away from us. We watched him as he ate the foliage and pranced around with pride.

Jumping off Cascade Falls, Colorado. It is a place where once you start and fear kicks in due to heights and cold water, there is still only one way out, and it is through it. The Falls consists of at least 6 jumps (a natural waterfall, puddle jumping and extreme beauty).

Jumping out of an airplane in Kawaii, Hawaii with my sister and a tandem on our backs. As I jumped out of the plane the force from the air is dividing my muscle and fat on my leg like the Red Sea. My sister ends up throwing up (Triscuits) all over herself and the tandem behind her. Getting down to the ground, looking at her and having to give her my skirt so that she didn't have to wear her barf shirt all day long. Hilarious.

Dancing with my sister in the club/bar the other night. We were completely sober dancing our pants off and a girl comes up to my sister and asks "Are you girls rolling? And can I have some?". My sister responds,
"nope, just sober and awesome". Classic

Teach, Learn, Share

-By trade/skill I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I know how to communicate clearly and effective and can teach others how to validate
-By unpaid trade/skill I am a soulful dancer (can be embarrassing dancer) and I can teach people to dance from the heart despite what others may think.
-By unpaid trade/skill I love to bake (especially biscuits, cookies, cakes and muffins)-I would love to bake/cook with others.
-My husband who is traveling with me, can make fire with sticks and knows several more primal skills
-By unpaid trade/skill-I can encourage "city folk" how beneficial spending time in the wilderness can be
-By unpaid trade/skill-I am hilarious and am able to encourage people to be themselves.

What I Can Share with Hosts

-I can share authentic connection, gratitude and heart.

Countries I’ve Visited

France, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Netherlands, United States