We're empty nesters with a blended family. We began homes haring seven years ago on a whim since we only used two out of four bedrooms. Also, I (Missi) have been living with a chronic, yet undiagnosed, condition for 11 years. Traveling for work was becoming too much, so I decided to try to find other ways of generating income. I'd been intrigued by the home sharing concept since my first stay in someone else's home, so I decided to give it try but not expecting to do it long term.
In the beginning, we only offered the house on weekends and holidays. We hosted our first family Thanksgiving 2014, and I was immediately hooked on being a host. Those first guests were so appreciative, and I was so appreciative of them choosing us.
In Spring 2019, we decided to open the individual bedrooms. Despite being trepidatious about sharing space with others while they were in the home, we've come to really enjoy meeting and interacting with people from all over the world. We've made a few lifelong friends, and I still get a rush of excitement when a new reservation notification comes through. I can't see myself ever going back to traditional work and am so thankful that I have been able to establish this new "career"!