Hi there!

I wrapped up my job in July 2017 and am currently traveling the globe, trying to experience and learn as much as possible about the world, others, and myself while I’m on this open-ended journey. I’m on an extended “sabbatical” from work; after working for the same organization for 7 years, and living in the same city for 6, I decided I wanted, and frankly needed a shake-up in my life. So here I am, on this solo journey, having the adventure of my life, and I want to share it with you!

I worked in mental health for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in the United States, and most recently was working remotely for the Office for Suicide Prevention, creating partnerships with external organizations to maximize our impact on reducing Veteran suicide. Previously I had worked directly with Veterans and their family members, and over the course ofy 7 years with the VA, I’ve learned so much about relationships—it’s genuine human connection that brings us joy, frees places of sorrow, and makes us real.

My favorite part about travel is meeting people, hearing their stories, and being given the gift of participating in their lives: for a coffee, a scramble into a cave, a dance, a jaunt to a nearby city together, a night on their couch, a week as their impromptu housemate!

Wherever I am, I love to hike, run, climb, and dance— movement has been very grounding for me while on the go. I’ll try anything at least once! I find great delight in novel experiences, and find sharing those experiences even more delightful. I’ve been thoroughly enjoying the travel community and connecting with people in hostels, AND I also want to learn about what local life is like— it’s such a gift to be given a little snippet of someone else’s life and to see their home through their eyes.

Hugs, warmth, and laughter,
Madrianne

P.s. One day, when I have a home again (I have aspirations of building a tiny house that can accommodate guests) I am so excited to cozy-fy it and welcome others in! I’m already dreaming about it...

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I’ve been thoroughly enjoying the travel community and connecting with people in hostels, and I also want to learn about what local life is like— it’s such a gift to be given a little snippet of someone else’s life and to see their home through their eyes.

I also have hosted others informally (i.e. not through Couchsurfing) and when I have a home, want to share it!

Interests

• modern art
• yoga
• minimalism
• hiking
• backpacking
• rock climbing
• food
• tea
• forests
• dance
• trains
• chips

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

My current experience of open-ended adventuring around the world feels so amazing!

What I Can Share with Hosts

I enjoy cooking and bring helpful in any way I can (oddly, I’m finding that I miss washing dishes)! I give good massages, can provide kombucha brewing and yogurt making instruction, and share stories and a good belly laugh. I am nearly always ready to be a listening ear or sounding board. Honest heart-to-hearts are my favorite!

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, France, Lesotho, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Thailand, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States