CURRENT MISSION

Adventurous homebody. Wandering nester.

ABOUT ME

I have been working with or helping people as a career in some capacity since 1999. I tutor neurodivergent kiddos, have worked on social skills with children in foster care and adoptive homes, and worked for child welfare. I grew up in rural Pennsylvania and always knew I wanted to experience things beyond the boundaries of my hometown. I have lived in Washington, D.C.; Berkeley and Oakland, CA; Prescott, AZ; Raleigh, NC,and now Pittsburgh where my extended family is from. I love animals and have 2 cats and 2 dogs.

PHILOSOPHY

Integrity, respect, and the idea that every human and thing deserves to be treated with dignity. I live simply and try not to use any more than I need. I strive for enjoyment while not affecting others in a negative way.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I would like to welcome folks into my home as a way to meet new people and be more open in life.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

I've been off this platform for sooooooo long.

Interests

Film photography, bicycling, swimming, life-long learning, meditation, reading, cooking--a lot, eating delicious food, education, beer.

• animals
• cats
• dogs
• writing
• photography
• beauty
• education
• dining
• cooking
• chocolate
• beer
• running
• meditation
• clothing
• reading
• cycling
• swimming
• teaching
• social work

Music, Movies, and Books

Movies: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Music: Yo La Tengo, Caetano Veloso, Marvin Gaye, Tanlines, Juana Molina, Rubblebucket, Perez Prado, etc., etc., etc.

Books: Middlesex, The World According to Garp, Cutting for Stone, Everything is Illuminated, children's books, and on, on....

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I worked in an artisanal chocolate factory where I saw cacao beans roasted and ground into chocolate on antique equipment--it was my Willy Wonka fantasy come to life! My closet smelled of chocolate as it infused all of my clothes. I ate chocolate all of the time--at work and on my days off. No, I never got tired of it. Ever.

I traveled to Havana, Cuba in 2005 and it blew my mind.

I taught my dog to run along side of my bike--frankly, I think that's awesome (side note, said pupperoni, Cookie, is no longer with us, and she was one of the loves of my life).

I think everyday life is pretty miraculous, so I look for beauty, enjoyment, and amazement in the little things.

Teach, Learn, Share

I received my degree in writing and film photography, but I have been in social work and behavioral health, and have been working with neurospicy folks for years.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Peace and quiet in the morning. A nice reliable personality with a smidge of nuttiness in there once ya get me goin'.

Countries I’ve Visited

Cuba, Germany, Mexico, Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Spain

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States