Well, my attempt at being a Global FreeLoader was a dud. On my trip to Portland this week, I had no response to my request to crash at someone’s home for two nights on the Global FreeLoaders website. No, I didn’t sleep in my car.

Instead, I accepted an invitation from a wonderful couple that I met in August, through friends. They were kind enough to provide me with a very comfortable bed and some fabulous home cooking. I couldn’t have asked for better hosts and hope that I can return the favor when they pass through Seattle.

I will give the Global FreeLoaders another shot when I go to India in January. Now THAT should be an adventure.

I did have the chance to host someone earlier this week when my neighbor had a death in the family and had a number of people visiting from out of town for the services. A lovely woman, Marilyn, from Florida came to stay for just one night. She stealthily came and went and was quite appreciate to have a place to stay right across the street from her best friend.

And, earlier this month, I was the guest at the neighbor of a friend when I went to Dallas for a funeral. I stayed in a beautiful home with Southwest/Tex-Mex style furniture and was hosted by a sweet southern woman who had coffee waiting for me in the morning and was a generous hostess.

So, that makes three homestays for me just in the last month. I like this hosting stuff and hope to do more of it. It’s a great way to meet others and I strongly believe we could all use a bit more connecting. Who would want to stay in a sterile hotel room when you can spend an evening getting to know the ideology and lifestyle of new friends?

Happy Travels!