I live in the valley of the Connecticut River in Western Massachusetts. I live on a farm, where I raise chickens for eggs and meat, sheep for lamb, and grow shiitake mushrooms on oak logs in the woods. I also work with groups of children and teenagers, exploring the natural wood and getting to know ourselves better. I am lucky to be immersed in a wonderful community of heart-centered people.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Although I have only participated a few times couchsurfing from this website, I love the gift economy model of hospitality. I appreciate the stories I hear and read about of strangers offering a place to stay and enjoying the diversity of people from all walks of life. I'm inspired by that generosity and openness particularly in the world we live in now. I have not hosted primarily because my living situations have not been conducive to hosting, but I look forward to being able to host in the future.

Interests

I'm interested in ways we can work together to feed each other, nourish each other, and nourish the earth. Curious about peoples stories, where each has come from and the challenges that make a person who they are. Also interested in understanding and exploring how difference, diversity, and conflict can transform how we think feel and act towards honoring life on this earth.

• cooking
• meditation
• walking in the woods
• biking around town
• walking around town

Music, Movies, and Books

Music with roots: coltrane, bob and bob, folk music that I've never heard, that I've heard from a distance. traditional country music. Townes Van Zandt. Joni Mitchell.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Sleeping on the ground under the stars is as amazing as it gets.

Teach, Learn, Share

I can teach about... homebrewing, fermentation, music theory, simple meditation, being quiet, being still, simple instrument playing, laughing from the gut. Simple wilderness skills (fire-by-friction, hide-tanning, cordage). Cooking

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Croatia, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Slovenia, Sweden

Countries I’ve Lived In

India, United States