As an independent consultant in international agriculture development, and an adventurous and curious traveler, I've been to a few dozen countries for work and pleasure (many of which in Sub-Saharan Africa.) With my professional focus on agriculture and food systems, my personal interest lies in food culture and history.  I find most success in identifying and building on the similarities between peoples living in different geographies while the joy comes from celebrating the few differences we may have.

After about 15 years in the Washington DC area, I moved to my 160 acre Oregon Coast forest property full-time 5 years ago. Living off-grid and close to nature is a wonderful balance to my analytical/knowledge-based work life.   Raised on a farm, with a fairly close rural American extended family (West Coast based as well), I enjoy the focus and sense of accomplishment that comes from hands-on projects and learning practical new skills; this summer I felled trees around my greenhouse and built a new home office - myself!  Among other treasured rural American values, the art of neighboring and 'making do' are wonderful parts of my current coastal forest homestead life.  I have two dogs for companionship and bear patrol (although I'm not sure they would do anything other than bark and hide behind me.) 

The theological foundations of tawhid and fitra were pivotal for my conversion to Islam in 2000. I am still drawn towards ihsan/tassawuf for personal and spiritual development. 

I could actually write a LOT more...  but look forward to speaking directly and learning more about you as well.