Profile information
Travel information
I am currently
Travelling
My next destination:
Rome, Italy - from Apr 2025 until May 2025 View all
Description
I have always really enjoyed exploring, and my favorite travel memories stem from experiences in which there was an opportunity to learn another culture and truly connect with people around the world. In some cases, that connection was fleeting yet special -- such as during a couchsurfing experience in France about 15 years ago, when I spent the evening watching the fireworks in Carcassone and dancing until the wee hours in the square with our host's adorable little girls. In other cases, I developed lifelong friendships -- such as during my time living in Mexico as a student, volunteering in the Dominican Republic on social justice causes each winter for several years, or through family exchange programs with French and Spanish families when my daughter was growing up. It's fun to be a tourist, but it is a much deeper gift to experience somewhere new through the eyes of those who call that place home. Likewise, being open to connection with other travelers leads to interesting conversations and stretches perspectives in a way that I see as crucial for growth.
I am happiest when in nature -- especially when near water. At home, my soul is most settled when I am on my paddleboard or hiking the grand dunes of Lake Michigan. Away, I am always pulled towards finding new experiences of awe-inspiring natural beauty. If I'm visiting a friend in an unexplored area of my own country, I'm usually dragging them somewhere they haven't been - whether that's hiking, kayaking, or snorkeling! I also very much enjoy animals, especially dogs, and endlessly indulged my children's passion for pets -- our house has been full of everything from dogs and cats to snakes, birds, and bunnies over the years. I am passionate about the environment, and was trained as a Reef Check volunteer.
Currently, I am taking a sabbatical from corporate work. I was an information technology leader over data management for many years, and am now taking some time to catch my breath before deciding what is next for my career. Since November I have been enjoying quiet time at home reading, doing weight lifting and yoga, and moving through our overflowing list of home projects.
Now it's time to spread my wings. If you think you have a workaway project that would be a fit, I'd love to hear from you! I speak rusty Spanish (used to be a teacher!), am a quick study for DIY projects, and am both analytical and creative (I've developed code and painted murals!). Thanks for your consideration!
Interests
Blogging
Culture
Water sports
Photography
Writing
Cooking & food
Beach
Charity work
Drawing & painting
Hiking
Sustainability
Pets
Mountain
Dancing
Art & design
DIY & crafts
Fitness
Self development
Outdoor activities
Sailing / Boating
Yoga / Wellness
Politics / Social justice
Nature
Books
Animals
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: FluentMore details about my language interests
I don't speak any Italian, but I speak Spanish and English
Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Being an elderly companion
Charity Work
House sitting
Some knowledge of:
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Eco Projects
Helping around the house
Animal Care
Hospitality/Tourism
Languages
Art Projects
Helping with Computers/ Internet
Teaching
More details about your skills
My master's degree is in library science and I've worked in IT for many years. I have strong leadership, project management, computer, and writing/editing skills.
From a DIY perspective, I have done a lot of painting, both standard interior painting and interior murals. I am handy with basic tools and am comfortable learning new skills. I took a basic woodworking course last year.
I speak Spanish. Although is rusty, I have past experience as a certified Spanish teacher and have done volunteer work as an interpreter.
I can cook and clean. We do all our own gardening and property maintenance, so I am able and experienced, although gardening in particular is not a passion.
I am a strong swimmer and am scuba certified, was certified by Reef Check to do reef assessments, but have not been active in a while.
I am great with animals and am a mom of 3 grown children.
Age
51
Some more information
Smoker
Driver's licence
Allergies
Special dietary requirements
