Artistically, I work in professional theatre all over the country as an actor, manager, and/or musician. I've been gigging this way since 2013, and my life partner has joined me on this path since we met in 2015 - he plays upright bass, electric bass, tuba, among other things. I play trumpet, piano, sing, and act. We're usually put up in cast housing for this work, so it's a fun way to get to see new areas.

Professionally, (aka "the day job,") I work remotely as an independent contractor (basic video editing, copywriting, transcription). This is what gives me the flexibility to travel whenever I get the travel bug - which is pretty frequent. When just plain traveling, we have memberships with apps like Trusted Housesitters or Couchsurfing to give us a more local POV and feel more immersed. We're always happy to swap travel stories or play music with our hosts or make a communal meal.

Personally: I’m originally from rural Illinois, so I have Midwestern mannerisms (politeness, keep to myself, and hospitality). After leaving my hometown, I volunteered with AmeriCorps in both Montana and Texas. I was a trail-building, chainsaw-wielding, hiking, environmental steward - it was some of the best times of my life! After "the American version of the Peace Corps" work, I then followed a dream to study performing arts at an NYC conservatory. Music, theatre, and film were my focus in New York. Since then, I've toured the U.S. as a gig-pursuing theatre grad, and had a lot of interesting experiences. Some of my favorite places to be are Portsmouth, NH; Washington, DC; San Luis Obispo, CA; and Denver, CO (or, really, anywhere in the Rockies).

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I want to see as much of the world as I can, while I can! What better way than to immerse myself in the local community? Whether you've traveled often or are just interested in hosting travelers, I'd love to hear your story and recommendations. This platform is such an amazing way to interact with people and places, while going back to the basics - kindness and community.

Interests

• writing
• vegan
• blogging
• music
• piano
• trumpet
• hiking
• camping
• travel
• theatre
• national parks
• vegan cooking
• musical theatre

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Avett Brothers, Will Whitmore, Joy Williams, Alison Krauss, Eisley (bluegrass, indie-folk)

Movies/TV: Pensive, beautiful, or comedic material. Some examples are Into the Wild, Bridgerton, The Great, Schitt's Creek.

Books: poetry books, non-fiction, inspirational books

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Hiked onto a glacier in Iceland in 2021... and saw an active volcano - on the same trip!

Also... being an aunt. I feel like I'm pretty amazing at that - shameless plug. (Four nieces/nephews from 3-11 years old.) Spending time with them is never dull, and always amazing.

Teach, Learn, Share

I can teach any travel hacks I know, including how we've made agendas or plans for trips before.

Would love to learn more about international travel and hear your experiences.

Happy to share a couple of recipes!

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm happy to whip up a veg-friendly meal for everyone! I've been vegan for 17 years, but I'm not a prude about it. My partner calls himself a dumpster because he will eat anything (meaning he is not vegan). I don't mind sharing a table for a meal as long as I can bring my own rabbit food! haha.

I can always share friendliness and common courtesy. Giving you space, or - if my social battery is charged - spending time socializing.

I'm also a chandler (a candlemaker) and will gladly gift you a non-toxic scented soy candle, if you're a candle lover! Depending on what I have with me. :)

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Germany, Iceland, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States