OH DONNA

 

I've known Donna for quite some time since we met at a festival of radical
self-expression called Burning Man. This was in the summer of 2007.

I have a great amount of respect for Donna. I recognize the many contributions she has made to CouchSurfing.

Apparently, I misread the closeness of our friendship. I did not make a
sexual advance towards Donna. However, I recognize that my actions were
interpreted in a way that was not intended, and I apologize for my behavior.

I know that on this night, after a day of picnicking in the park and having drinks at the club, I could have managed myself better, and I have changed by behavior to be more sensitive, and respectful.

I am very open and committed to working this out with Donna. I appreciate the opportunity to resolve this issue. I sincerely hope to restore Donna's trust in me as a person.

 

I'm squeezing my brain, trying desperately to come up with something creative and explanatory of who Donna is.
So far I have failed, so I'll keep things plain and simple.

I have been admiring Donna's work on CS for a long time now, while working on the same teams, or even before that. The kind of personality she always radiated had earned my utmost respect from very early on.
And then I met her. And we had cocktails and dinners and laughs and mucked about with shade structures and dusty bicycles and burnt down temples and lots n lots n lots of tacos and...
And I was right. There is noone else like her. With her good sides and her bad sides, she is a strong mix only for the worthy.
So go ahead. Try to prove yourself worthy and indulge yourself in the "Oh Donna" experience. There's no return, nor would you want there to be. :)

Holy Amazing did that just really happen? Did I really get to indulge in the glorious energy that is aaaaahhhh, Oh Donna? I asked her if I could adopt her as my Chico God-Mother for good reasons! Her patience, honesty, LOVE, generosity, spiritual guidance, and hilarious humor just overflow and wrap you up in the glow that is Oh, Donna. She will teach you so much about anything you want to know, while making you giggle and uplifting your heart. AND THE STORIES!!! Donna is a must meet with her divine roommate Brian, who perfectly compliments her. These two are priceless, and precious. Anything I can ever do for them, done. Keepers I tell you!

holy shit, what an amazing weekend!! For two days Donna and her roomie Brian kept us highly entertained. They're both EXCELLENT hosts. Donna can tell a story like no one's business. She exhibits a beautiful, sharing personality that the world would benefit from should we all begin to act in accord. The wine was a treat, too!!! We all shared a bit of this and that together, and hours of laughter ensue. :D Her Luna-bug was a darling, so here's my reference to the one person in the household that doesn't have a CS profile! Go to Donna's House. Play with Luna. Your life will mean a little bit more. Only someone as AMAZING as (Ohhh!) Donna would have gone so far out of her way and let three vagabonding VW cruisers experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stay with her. Thank you, thank you, thank you a million times, Donna! :D Next time, though... let's pass on the Grappa.

Wow... I can't believe I didn't leave this sooner. I was just cruising CS tonight and realized I hadn't left Donna a reference yet... sorry *hides*... What can I say?!? Donna was my first couchsurfing host ever and blew my mind open to a whole world of possibilities. Who knew that random hosts could be so friendly?!? Donna took my friends and I on an adventure that was one of a kind and not possible anywhere else with anyone else!!! She is an amazing cook, a wise Goddess, and grows wonderful tomatoes (and other food). Her house was cozy, clean, comfortable, inviting, and exciting! I truly felt at home there and did not want to leave. I can't wait to go back! If you are in Chico, don't pass up a chance to surf the glorious wave of energy that is OhDonna!!! You won't regret it!!!

Donna is an amazing host as well as a friend. I would recommend her to everyone I know :)

I met Donna the first time during a cs meeting in Rome and we started to speak about Burning Man.. when finally we met there, she borrowed me one of her bikes and sh litterally saved my life.. her peace camp was my happy relaxed oasi with a good friend always ready to share some drinks and good vibes

Donna has a HUGE heart, is beyond generous and has always made those around her feel welcomed and accepted for who they are. I have met a number of couchsufers in her home and am always amazed at the connections she establishes. She loves this whole idea, loves her town and loves being an hostess and ambassador for everyone who comes to her home. She's fun, funny, and open to life. Plus she's a damn good cook.

 

To say something about Donna, I need to say something about Chico first.
It is a small town north of Sacramento where nobody is nervous, everybody is happy, smiling, dancing, ready to share with you everything.................
.........and OH DONNA is just the best Chico can offer to you!
We feel after staying with her for two days, like our family has a new member!
She will have a special place in our hearts forever.

 

WHOAAAH!
Donna was one of my 'most wanted to surf' profiles since the day I started with CS.
So I had to trick my son into going to California one day, and travel up to Chico. Well, there's Luna, so that wasn't too hard!
We have been working together online forever on CUQ's, finally we met in Vienna this spring and I booked my couch! Staying with Donna was like coming home, she took care of us, even when I was sick, she took my son out for the day, we enjoyed her cooking, aaah priceless! Just wished Chico was around my corner, so I could visit her anytime...

 

Donna is the host!! And if you think Chico is some remote place out there in the middle of california, you're mistaken... it's really awesome. Donna is amazing and is surrounded by an amazing group of people that will make you remember Chico no matter how little you visit of it. She's got some secrets also, and one is her cooking!!! You'll remember Donna, and you'll come back :)

 

DONNAAAAAA!!!
Special souls are necessary for us humble creatures,they brighten our days and bring a smile when we need it.
Dona..DONNA spent a week in my house and we went sightseeing, drank LOTS of wine, cooked, ate good food together.
She is not GLOBAL ...she is UNIVERSAL!
A marvellous person inside and out...even though her "pain killer" didn't make me sleep but gave me a bit of a headache!!
I have only one wish: that Donna returns to Pistoia and I can host her again!

 

Finally meeting Donna was an item checked in my list, I'm a more fulfilled person now. We work in the same CS teams for quite a while, we Skype each other more than I do with my family and she is always there for me! I like her so much that it hurts!

 

donna is a real burner, and it's always a pleasure to have her around. i am sorry i did not have much time to spend together but i look forward our next meeting in black rock city

 

Donaaaaa where are my candies? I'm still waiting, maurizio ate all of them :( :D.
It was great fun to meet Dona. She is charming, funny and a great company. I tried to get a job at her farm as a supervisor, but she didn't want me to work for her.. perhaps i don't look that serious ahahaha.
Well, she is a great leader and you can see that clearly when you talk with her. I don't understand why she didn't challenge Obama during the last american elections... she could have win and solve this crisis with her cakes and candies.
Miss you!

 

Oh Donna, what a beautiful Being! Full of light, love, generosity, joy and fun. Never a dull moment when this women is around! An unnerving amount of dedication to care, protect, and look after those around her and those she values, which basically encompasses the whole CS community! Consider yourself lucky if you have the chance to be showered with her all she has to give. I have immense and deep gratitude for the support she gave me while volunteering. Donna, our paths will cross again for sure and I can't wait! Thank you for all you give to this amazing community.

i hosted a wonderful woman!!! she spoke to me but i didnt understand!!! i m a donkey!!!!
a pefect guest

Donna is a sunshine!!! im glad we had the chance to meet in Abruzzo! and will be definitely looking for her visit to Beirut one day :)

Oh dear Donna! After years of online interaction and missing each other in Venice we finally met during Vienna Calling for which she even changed her flights and her whole holiday schedule. I had lots of fun hanging out with her during these days and enjoyed our talks as well as the dinner she cooked for us a lot! Let's make sure next time won't take that long again :o)

 

What can i say about Donna?
It was a great experience to met Donna. We spent a lot of time together: we shared toughts, laugh, food, WINE ;-)), friends and more and more.
Really great time together, even if, i didn't try the COOKIES ;-)).
I really HOPE to meet her again somewhere areound the world and, why not, to travel together.
LOVE YOU!

 

Thanx to some god we met Donna! She is so pleasing, chatty, bright, sincere, easygoing; we had a wonderful lunch together speaking about cs activities and oddities, we really hope to meet her again :-D take care donna hugs!

 

Oh Donna!
Such a crazy and full of life person!
We spent two wonderful nights just chatting about politics, the Burning Man, and the CS community. She has an incredible knolegde of what's going on and of the site.
Moreover, she is a really warm hearted person, that knows the right way to magically put a smile on your face :D
See you Donna!

 

OH "Donna Clara" happy I have met you in Vienna. Your are so energetic, lovely and talkativ.I will never forget the time we spent together in the CS-Meeting. I hope I will see you soon in Italy, our common love!!!!!

 

Meeting Donna is worth every detour. Chico is not in your itinerary? Change it or you'll miss one of the best parts of your journey and of CS. Trust me (or read the other references on her profile if you're still in any doubt).

 

It's been great to finally meet Donna after having spent 3 years with regular conversations via email and skype calls and working together on the different CS teams. She came to Rome and we spent 2 full days together, have visited my city, went to the beach, and had some cool party with the local CS community. Next I look forward to come visiting you in Chico!

I spent some time with Donna at a couple of CS gatherings in Rome and really enjoyed chatting to her. Donna has a great attitude towards life.

***POSITIVE POSITIVE POSITIVE ***
DONNA ... a very special woman you can't forget once we've met her.
We spent a couple of days together in L'Aquila at the CS AID FOR ABRUZZO meeting ... working, chatting, drinking, cooking, laughing!!
I feel lucky I could shared some time with her. She has a pure light inside and she spreads it all over, together with joy for life, love for the earth and a heart full of laughter. Hope to come to Chico soon. (And ... by the way .. every time I go shopping I think about you ... I just adore my purple Chico Bag.) And don't forget to come to Vicenza next time you'll visit Italy. Lots of love

It was such a pleausure for me to spend few days with Donna...I met her in Abruzzo, she promised me to come to Bologna and she came!!!
I was so happy to show her around and see her so enthusiastic about Bologna (I'll try to get more informations about the building with the heads, that's a promise!).
Very brilliant, with a huge heart and always up for a chat and a glass of wine....come back to Bologna whenever you want!

 

Donna has a vibrant and positive energy inside and she spreads it all around. She joined us for a meeting in L'Aquila and then she came to Pescara for one night. After the meeting we were both pretty exhausted so we had a quiet time together but i could still enjoy her bright mood: she is always ready for a drink, for a chat and for hanging out. And of course, she has a lot to tell. I am very glad i have met Donna!

 

After being in touch for a while due to our co-working in same cs team, I was very happy to meet Donna. She's very active, trustful and easygoing woman with very interesting stories about her life. She joined our L'aquila meeting too and now I know i have a new stop in California not only for chico bag ahhah next time mexican food and see u soon in Wien hopefully.
Un abbraccio Giamp

I LOVE Donna!!!
She came to Galiga for a night and invaded our life with laughs, amazing mexican food, funny stories, gifts, energy-energy-energy and magic Willy Wonka cookies: we had a blast!!!
Donna is everything couchsurfing and human relations should be about: openess, happiness and genuinity. Simply a BEAUTIFUL person!
Ciao bella and thank you again for everything. See you and all the tribe soon in Chico!!!

extremely positive!
a magic woman taht you have to meet during your travel. She's full of energy and full of light, to stay with her means to feel well. Nice, warm, coloured, talkative, sunny and smart. Was a pleasure to chat with Donna, searching for something tipical to eat at the Padova's Fiera. thanks to be my personal driver in...Padova...

 

I was one of the many people here in Italy who were fortunate enough to meet Donna during her trip around Italy. I met her during the first days of her trip while she was surfing Giuseppe's couch. I've seen her three days/evenings in a row and I must say that I was amazed by this wonderful lively and enthusiastic woman who brought alot of laughter, crazyness and fun to the city of Padova. I really loved her hippy-kinda-attitude and I loved the stories about the Burning Man event. I really wanna go there one day, and then hopefully meet you again! Enjoy your days in Vienna!! Baci :-***

 

I got to know Donna and her butter at my place. We cooked together (salsa and a yummy risotto and, of course, her widely renowned candy) and had lots of nice conversations...

Unfortunately, I was forced to concede that Donna can eat more jalapenos than I can, which earns her my respect.

I hope to see you again at the meeting in Vienna!

 

Donna is a couchsurfer that I would definitely recommend to meet. I was so lucky to spend a few days in Munich with her. Donna is a super traveller and an amazing couchsurfer, always smiling and laughing. A free and joyful spirit like an happy kid with candies! :)

Donna, the world is super small. Sure we will meet again somewhere some time soon. Ciao and Happy Surfing!

Staying with Donna was a pleasure, she was pre-instantly welcoming if there's such a thing, a master with food and a Chico professional. I'm happy I got to meet her and look forward to the next time I'm strolling through her neck of the woods.

 

Donna is a force of nature! She is friendly, inclusive, fun, caring & generous & she really believes in CS's mission. She is a Good Person.

 

Donna is a wonderful person -- and that wonder extends to her AMAZING food.

Cate and I had a wonderful few days at her place (yes, I will bring NO WORK next time!), and it was better than home (remember that food!).

Can't wait to see her on Taco Tuesday :)

 

Motherly, friend, sisterly, counselor, companion, mentor, confidante, companion, crony, pal, lover of life, opinionated (meaning she shares her opinions), giver of love, gardener, nature lover, honest, truthful, cyclist, earth lover, uncompromising values, talented chef, generous, silly, funny, shelter giver, foodie, intelligent, worldly, open, caring: These words all describe Donna.

I worked with Donna on CUQs and The Verification Team for months before I finally got to meet her.

You know how they say you should never meet your heroes because you'll be disappointed? Bullshit! Donna was the same honest, open and loving person that had made her a hero in my mind.

She understands what true friendship is all about -- getting through the bad to the good and being honest and open.

She opened her home and heart to me, and for that, I will be forever her friend. Even if I have to call her a bitch every now and then. :p

Then there's Luna!!! Beautiful, moody and loving!!

 

Donna is one of my favorite people. She is giving, outgoing, honest, caring, and very welcoming. Besides being an amazing cook and a free spirit, Donna is trying to save the planet one step at a time. If you ever get a chance to spend some time with this amazing woman, do it because she is the real deal.

I couldn't have found a better place to land after driving several thousand miles. Donna is so kind, has a cozy pad and makes a person feel welcome and comfortable. She's a great cook and has a Luna dog to boot. My new Chico friend is much loved and appreciated.

 

Donna is the best host I have ever stayed with! Generous and fun...took us to vineyards,a local Irish Pub, live reggae show, an EXCELLENT cook; I spent both Thanksgiving and Christmas at Donna's place in Chico!

 

Had a great time with Donna and crew for Thanksgiving. Got to check out Chico and some other great local spots. I look forward to seeing her again.

Donna is a wonderful person who likes to have fun, eat great food, and enjoy life with good friends! She has been a very generous friend to my sister and I and I look forward to fun times together in the future!

 

Donna took the ball and got the Chico meeting together. I had fun. It was nice to hear about the workings of couchsurfing and what goes on behind the scenes. If I can figure out how to make those burning man pieces of jewelry, I'll let you know.

Donna is a fabulous hostess; For starters She greeted me with a hug and a glass of vino rojo which was much appreciated after an 8 hour drive. I spent two days surfing with her during which I met friendly folk, shared her love for cookery, and political satire. I hope to have more opportunities to get to know Donna!

 

An amazing cook who fed the masses as they entered the place that would change their lives.. that and she's got great costumes and a warm heart!
it wa great having Donna one of my first welcoming experiences into the CS community.

 

Donna hosted us in her wonderful home with her wonderful smile and she cooked us a wonderful dinner...
... and she shared with us deep thoughts too...
You can't miss her hospitality and happiness!!!

 

Donna (or Santa Donna, after knowing her!) is one kind of a woman and of a couchsurfer. She was so available, I changed date and time at least one zillion time, but she didnt lost her aplomb, and when we arrived she had dinner ready... and not just any dinner! She has very clear ideas about everything, and she ain't a "not in my backyard" kinda person... :-D Watching the Colbert Report with her was pretty instructive. The day after our good sleep in a nice nice bedroom we went cruisin' for Sierra Nevada beer, and candied almonds... hhhmmmm... and then followed the gigantic yo-yo and the hands sculpture. What a nice pleasant day we spent in Chico...

June 2009 update: Donna found some time on her long Italian trip to visit me in Torino, bringing in the small rented FIAT 500 a caravan of good stuff... although she changed dates 73 times we finally did it and I'm so proud... :-D

 

Donna is a very nice and warm person. I enjoyed visiting her before the collective started in Chico, and then seeing her again in Alaska. Your food and your company are amazing, chef!

 

Fe*king Sh*te!! Absolutely brilliant host ... argumentative beyond belief!!! *smirk* ... a strong woman with the best heart in the world ... you will be lucky if she hosts you ... write a real nice request. Including 'fe*king sh*te' in the request will get the Irish woman in her. Great friends, great trips, great bike rides, great food. Love & Joy live here.

Oh Donna! Thank you for the taquitos, the best I've ever had. My smoked reds plus your skill and fabulous spicy sauce was magical. Thank you for the hospitality up at the collective. The view, the view, the view. Not to mention the birds and the burners. Thank you for educating me about faux-fur.

 

I hope I'm as cool as Donna in a few years! She saved the CS Camp from starvation by cooking for all 35 of us who showed up early to set up camp the Sunday before the burn. Her dedication to the CS Project, and to humanity, warms my heart.

 

Donna is awesome, Before meeting her at Burningman 08, we had shared emails a few times, and she personally delivered to me my verification of my address! She is a great spirit, fun, always up for troub,..I mean a good time! I am so glad I have met and have gotten to know Donna during BM)'(08-09. I look forward to seeing her again! I would recommend for everyone to have the chance to meet and to get to know Donna!

 

Donna was my first boss and friend at the Collective in Alaska and I couldnt get luckier :-) It was a pleasure helping her in the kitchen (when she wasnt doing her seriuos work) and sharing wine and wonderful moments. She helped me in evry ocassion and made me feel welcome from the first time I arrived. Thank you my friend!

 

My first connection with donna, ever, was when she sent me a lovely ecard for my 30th birthday :)
When i actually met her in BM, and got to know her a little, i learned this is just natural to donna. this lady is all about making everyone around her happy. One of the most life-loving, generous people i have ever met, we immediatly became good friends on the playa. She kept on astonishing me with the way she just lives life to it's fullest, the way she loves people and always will have time to give u a good advice, and her total friendliness.
Donna, i can't wait to meet u again, and although i hope it will be before BM 2009, you are a very very strong reason to convince me to be back on the playa in 2009. SEE YOU SOON!

 

Wow. Donna is so giving. Of her time and herself. I never want to meet the person that is capable of getting the smile off of her face or the sense of fun out of her heart. She is a tireless worker for CS and a bright spark skipping around the Playa. I'll have to go and stay so that I can bring the perfect food to be graced by her salsa and treats.

 

It was great to finally meet Donna after all this time!! The queen bee of CUQs and I met on the playa during Burning Man!! The general chaos of the event meant we didn't get to hang out too much, but it was excellent to see how crazy and smiley she is in person. She does excellent work under the hood of Couchsurfing to make sure we all work together efficiently for the greater good of the site! Thanks so much for all your hard work; hopefully see you again soon with less dust :)

 

OH, Donna! Even though we only hosted you 2 days here in Anchorage, I am glad we were able to connect up especially since you have been also at our Homer digs. Your culunary skills in our kitchen were very much enjoyed and I was the envy of my co-workers when I took the leftovers to work! It would be great to visit sometime and really hope to make it to the Burning Man in the future-your pics made it really intriguing.
Come back anytime! PS- thanks for the crocs....and chicobags, of course!

Donna has lots of passion for CS and spends innumerable hours helping out. In essence, she's like a 2nd mother to CS volunteers and is always looking for ways to make those around her feel loved. We finally met in Alaska after over a year of working online. I feel special to be friends with such a beautiful human being, and look forward to visiting Chico in the coming year :)
p.s. her smoked salmon taquitos should be served in heaven!

 

Had great fun hangin with Donna over the years, always a laugh and good times. She is the greatest...

 

Donna is amazing, warm, loving, generous, and she cooks too! I wish she was my mom. Or maybe my sister?

 

Wonderful time and experience. Donna made me and my husband feel very welcomed. Donna is a generous, kind, loving and peaceful person. The world needs more people like Donna. Plus, the accommodations and cuisine were better than a 5 star hotel.

 

She was standing outside my Camper at HSMF and knows Lucinda.. that is becoming a common theme with people here. Anyway, I heard her name mentioned and sussed out that she was the same Donna as OH DONNA from Chico. We shared some drinks later and I got to learn a bit about the upper echelons of CS. Eventually we will meet up by clicking 'Surf my Couch'

 

Donna is clearly dedicated to all that CS is. She spreads love and warmth wherever she goes and always gives 200%. CS would be much the poorer without her. I'm so glad we finally managed to meet in person, however briefly, and look forward to many more such opportunities!

Where do I begin? I was supposed to surf on Donnas's couch, but before I arrived at her house I got into a motorcycle accident... she went so completely out of her way to help me and my friend. She picked us up (far away from her house)... brought us to the hospital... cooked us dinner... totally took care of us- better than my own mom would- and I had never even met her!! I dont know how to begin to thank you Donna...

 

When I came around Chico and contacted her to hang out, she was very welcoming, sharing wine, her city and her company. Will definitely meet up again when I'm around!

 

Ahh, Donna. :) Donna will always remind me of butter (long story) and delicious food. She's a fun selfless person who has helped out the CouchSurfing community in many ways, and at many stages. She continues to help out and always loves to chat and eat candy. I've really enjoyed surfing her couch and spending time with her. If you have the opportunity to spend a lil' time with Donna, don't miss it. :)

 

Words to describe Miss Donna:
Serene and ecstatic all rolled together, wise and deeply innocent, beautiful, gracious, & witty...I've run out of words, simply because I'd rather smile like an idiot as I stare out the window of Powell's to reminisce. She's found a place into our hearts and home whenever she would like to appear - I look forward to the next chance!
(I drank all the rest of your wine, by the way...)

I was very privileged to meet Donna and get to know her pretty well during my stay in Portland. She is a very giving, conscientious woman who has inspired me to become more involved with the wonderful CS community.

 

Donna is simply the best couchsurfer I've yet met. I can think of no area where she is lacking, and has singlehandedly inspired me to higher levels of volunteering within our lovely CS. Thank you, Ms. Donna. You are a saint and a sinner, both ;)

 

OH DONNA, when I talked to you, was I talking to friend or foe?! Definitely friend, my sources say, and I'm happy to have met you.

Donna never stopped smiling when I saw her in Portland, and her sense of humor didn't stop either. I hope she's at every other invasion I attend this year.

 

Donna is a generous woman and even though busy with her own life she still took time out to serve up some of her wonderful cooking and to show me around the park on a bike ride as well as introduce me to some of her friends in Chico. She makes a great chicken marsala and a wonderful salad dressing. I must trade salad dressing recepies with her. Donna is a magnificent example of generosity and warm hearted kindness.

We locals all got to meet the legendary and infamous Donna of Chico, and it was definitely a great time. We drank, talked, drank, blew up couches, stayed late and just had a blast. She's a truly gracious and friendly host and we all spent hours just talking about everything. It was great meeting her. If I didn't live here, I'd stay with her, but I do live here, so I can't. Sad.

 

our common interest in the CS community is what first brought us together - I subsequently made arrangements to surf her couch and I couldn't recommend it more - Donna is an amazing host who cooks a killer meal to be shared over powerful conversations

Thanks for all your wonderful work

 

THANKS Donna for having us over. Your house is warm and cozy, and I can NOT stop thinking about your food!!! Can't wait to see you again -- Chico or SF, or maybe elsewhere?

 

Wow, Donna is great woman. She is very kindhearted and free spirited. We enjoyed very much meeting her and look forward to being friends.

I completely enjoyed chatting with Donna. Her dedication to the prinicple of couchsurfing is beyond any that I have seen anywhere in the world without exception! She is very knowledgeable about Chico and the surrounds and goes out of her way regularly to make new comers and Couchsurfers visiting the Chico area feel comfortable and at home. Donna will be the person I consult in the future about any questions I have about Couchsurfing without any doubt.

Donna is an incredibly sweet & considerate womyn. She makes her home yours and takes into consideration all of your needs while she's being hospitable. I'd recommend a trip to Chico just to meet her!! She is smart, has many interesting stories to tell and also wants to hear your stories. It seems that she wants to help as much as she can, and I think she geniuinely does. Thank you Donna, again, for letting us stay with you! We really want to come back and probably will!

 

Donna, OH DONNA! What a glorious hostess and women. We had the most action packed days during our stay in Chico. Market, biking, worlds largest yo-yo, followed by international yo-yo contest, the HANDS, bike ride in GREATEST PARK EVER!, CS meeting, wine tasting, dinner party, fine dacing, fine dining, fine people! and that was only one day! You moved me Donna and you are the best! We WILL cross paths again I am sure of it.

OH. DONNA. You are so "famous". After all these years of seeing your smiling userpic I finally got to see the real thing. I would like to hang out with you for a million more days....okay?

 

Donna is like the Mother of Couchsurfing. She is sweet and maternal and extremely giving. She is also an amazing chef, with a diverse and colorful personal history. She is a wonderful host and I am so pleased she is part of the Couchsurfing community!

 

Donna is a generous, giving person, as well as a really good cook! You can count on a good conversation and fun time whenever you're in her company.

Donna heard about my travel plans after Burning Man 2007 and went out of her way to make sure we'd find a comfortable and interesting path into Central America. Giving advice and sharing contacts I'm sure it would have turned into a great trip; unfortunately I was not able to make that trip. If I do find myself heading in the Central America direction again, Donna shall be a person I shall call upon and hopefully visit along that journey.

She is great. Donna is lovely and friendly. She is always to be kind with everyone. I was in her house in 1997. She lived in San Diego at that time. I miss our dinners, to hang out with her and also our conversations. At that time I did not speak English very well and eventhough she spoke Spanish with me so I could understand.
When you meet her you will know what I talking about.
Donna is an excelent host.

 

Donna is a very festive host! We had a great time staying with her, cooking with her, dining with her, exploring the Chico Farmers' Market, and partying/conversing late into the night!

 

Donna is a Couchsurfing GODDESS. Not only is she an amazing, generous, warm, righteous and fabulous hostess, but she is also passionate about her town and the CS project. And she is truly a joy to hang out with. (...and cook for!) Once again, we were sad we'd only planned to stay for one night. Hope she comes out our way so we can get into some trouble on this coast!

 

Donna is so generous and welcoming and her home reflects her warmth and vivacity. Many times I have stayed late, had wine, interesting conversations, and lots of laughter...I truly feel fortunate to have met her.
She is a force to be reckoned with, and a wonderful person to be around. She gives her all to Cs and it shows, it wouldn't be the same without her.

Thank you, Donna.

And for Luna, who has (according to Donna) now accepted me as pack member...many kisses to you!

I second Eric. Mama Donna loved us and showed us a glorious Chico. If just a little of her peaceful giving vibe rubbed off on me then I am a much better man.

 

Oh Donna and her peaceful, yummmmy salsas! Somehow or another, she always found me on the same exact spot... the Gatekeepers at CS camp. I don't know how, but that was the vortex for bumping into Donna. If I don't see you sooner, Peace, Love, and DustyHugs back home!

 

Donna is so warm-hearted and welcomes everyone into her life with open arms. She is always ready for a good time and works very hard for CSers. I love to spend time with her and feel like family when I'm around her. She is definitely a person that will brighten up your life!

 

At Donna's I felt home. The atmosphere around her is so natural, so relaxing. Her smile, delicious food and fun stories of Mexico make the magic happen. Thank you Donna for being just like you are... and sharing it! Oh!.. and for the very practical Chico bag!

 

Donna is a wondrful woman, we finally met at Burning Man but I hope to see her again somewhere soon or late! :)

 

Though our paths cross only every few years, Donna's hospitality, generosity, and sharp outspoken insight never fail to keep spontanious smiles from happening and drinks a flowing. A giving soul to the core without any BS whatsoever.

 

Donna is pure inspiration! I am so glad I made the journey to visit her in Chico cause she rocks! Donna introduced Seb, Amanda & me to the Chico way of life and boy, was it GOOD! I'm looking forward to my next journey! Thanks Donna!

Oh Donna! You're the best!!!

Donna,
Unforgettable dinner and a long chat in the garden!!!! Donna is just a Great lady, I like her very much

 

Oh Donna, Donna!!!!Love her dearly..what a warm and gregarious person whose laugh fills the room with a presence...cooks some amazing meals, has a passion for wine and wacky conversations and has a kickass sense of humor...Knowing her has been a pleasure..learnt so much about how to be tactful from her...dont miss out on her and those Chico bags!!! xoxoxoxo

 

Oh Donna is one of the most giving and generous and loving persons on this site and at Burning Man -- if you have the chance, know yourself some Oh Donna -- YAY!!

 

Oh Donna, mother of CS, positive person, and helper of lost CS souls! She brought joy (and delicious treats!) to our CS camp each time she came around. I love being in her company. She is fantastic!

I have known this woman since she was a woman-child. Through the years, she has kept her sense of wonder, and delight. She has a heart of gold- and you can't help but be touched by her warmth when you are in her presence. She fills you up with her laughter and her heart welcomes. If you ever get the honor of meeting this woman- She will make you feel like "home".

 

Donna is the nurturing mother of many CSers. When I went to visit her for the first time, it was as if I went to visit a dear family member. Feeling at home was instantaneous, and very few people and places have that effect on me. She'll show you around Chico, introduce you to her circle of friends, buy you little things, and of course prepare you her legendary dishes. She has a "joie de vivre" that can only inspire you. Lucky you, who gets to be taken care of by Donna... You can't help but love her after having met her! She's always keepin' it real...

 

OOOOHHHHH Donna.... how oh how am I to fit what I want to say in this silly box? I love this woman deeply; let's start there. She is part of an elite group of the people that love CS the most, and she works her butt of for it. Seriously. She is the perfect hostess and a cherished friend. She is honest and loyal and direct. As for the weekend I spent... well... Here's to 2 hours from Marysville, Lucy in the truck, forks in the fork drawer, ridiculous food, dolphins in the Yangzi vs. Chico bags, huge yo-yos, flys in the vodka, and Spark and Cinder. I can't thank you enough, honestly. Ever. I love you so much.

 

CS has a Mama. Its Donna Garrison. She truly puts in real effort and cares deeply. We but heads nearly everyday, but we learn from each other quite a lot from it & I love her dearly. Really what CS was intended for. Her cooking is as amazing as it is healing. She took me and red couch guy in during the fall of 06 while we recovered ourselves and got our shit together. She gives to no end and it's good that CS gets to have and appreciate her very much. Here's to you mama: Thanks for everything you are and do for Couchsurfing!! I double vouch for her.

We shared in some fabulous meals, delicious wine, and stimulating conversation. Donna is a beautiful, friendly, exciting, and generous creature, and an amazing chef! If you ever have the opportunity to be hosted by her, do it! She is a blessing!

Donna is an amazing person who has spent a ridiculous amount of time volunteering for CouchSurfing. On top of that she is both young and warm at heart. And my mouth starts watering when thinking about the food she makes.

 

Donna is a great person to get to know.
Finally after three years we met face2face at Vienna Calling 2009 where we had interesting talks and also laught a lot together :) Donna is always welcome at my place.

 

Donna's my mama - we met in Montreal, I stayed avec her in Chico (& have no doubt that I will again!) & we saw each other again in New Zealand. She epitomizes generosity. The wicked giggle & gleam-in-your-eye that is Donna astounds me - she loves life, she adores her friends, & her friends are her true family. I feel so fortunate having her in my life. She's a great person to have in your corner when the going gets tough. She's an earth mother avec an airy spirit. How does it get better than that?!

Auntie, Auntie, you are so my fave Auntie Donna. This wonderful woman takes care of our little family big time! She goes above and beyond the norm all the time (storing the cars, finding us jobs, cooking killer food) I want to be like Donna when I grow up (if I ever do..) She's gracious, beautiful, positive, openminded, intelligent, and a whole lot of fun! When Donna's in the house laughter roars, palates are delighted, and the wine.... well it just pours and pours. We've experienced some hard times together.. but we have also had MANY excellent times in Chico, Quincy, NZ... and plan on having many more!

 

Donna is so positive and caring about people! She's easy to talk with and her compassion for animals, nature, and the human race is astounding! I look forward to building on our friendship.
Oh yes, LUNA is such a sweet dog. She really loves to eat popcorn with you..

 

OHDonna is WOWDonna. I surfed with her and felt as if I had known her for ages. The epitome of host. Her dedication and knowledge of the CS community leads me to believe that she just might be......"The Oracle of CS". This was my first surf and what a great start! Thanks Donna. You ARE the best! Oh, and Luna is great too!

A pleasuer to be around. Donna is always ready and willing to have a party or just hang out and have fun. I am happy to have this awsome woman as a friend!!!!

Wow! I met Donna first at Burning Man 2006 although I had heard her name many times before that. One of our first conversations was about couchsurfing as she pressed a couchsurfing sticker into my hand. We all had some crazy times there together. Donna always has Spirit! Donna = community. She cares about everyone and wants everyone to have a good time. She creates a happy, festive, joyful atmosphere wherever she goes. She lives each day like this is the last day you might have so live it to the fullest. She is full of life and joy and craziness. A loving risk-taking adventurer with a big open heart! She is loyal and an advocate for things that matter. Oh and did I say she is FUN FUN FUN!

OhDonna Rocks Chico - is Ms Queen CouchSurfer - takes you into her home and heart, feeds you yummies and just keeps inviting more and more juicy times and people. EVERYONE MUST MEET THIS GREAT CHICO LADY HOSTESS!!!

 

I have to just repeat what everyone else says, awesome lady(food, mmmm). Ya, i'm easy just feed me. (also has the red couch). A++++++

I had the wonderful privilege of having dinner with Donna two months ago. Its taken me ages to write a reference for Donna because I wanted to write something original but I can't think of anything. Everything I've read and heard about Donna is true. She's an amazing, beautiful woman. You know straight off that she's a no bullshit person and someone you can deeply trust. She does prepare fantastic meals...its true! She's also full of great wisdom from her life experiences. Donna is a Tribal Elder. She has my respect.

I loved my stay with Donna and Luna, and wish it could have been for longer. We had a deluxe evening of great food, fine wine and good chat! This couch surfing Guru is a treasure and i would reccomend a visit to Chico, and this fab lady to everyone!

I and my friend Samantha highly enjoyed our stay with Donna. She is truly warmhearted person, a great cook and knows some good wine. Donna made us feel welcome and at home. Thanks for showing us around and bike ride beautiful Chico.

 

Donna was the host with the most! The only regret I had was that I did not have more time to spend in Chico. Donna had great life experiences and perspectives to share along with one of the best home cooked meals I have had in a long time, her couch and even some clothes when one of my friends took my car keys by accident.

I can't wait until the next time I am up in the Chico area to ride bikes and laugh and generally have a good time.

Donna is an amazingly open & friendly woman with whom you can't help talking all things wonderful. This couchsurfing guru/gourmet chef revived the Australian roadtrippers and we left Chico rested and content, smothered in Luna dog fur and kisses.

 

NEVER underestimate a lady who's name starts with 'Oh' !! And she has the thickest skin in CS.
We first met at the CSC in Montreal, but she just walked in the door as I was walking out of it and we didn't get enough time to chat.
Now we both work together, so I figured she's a friend worth keeping ;)
Hehehe xx

Woohoo! What a gal! With her laugh every 3 seconds, a smile from ear to ear and an infectious personality it's hard to resist kidnapping this wonderful lady just to keep some Donna on tap. What a joy to be around.:)
The more I talk with this woman the more blessed I am by her

 

I'm so jealous. Everyone else got to spend so much time with Donna and I only got a couple days! She's an amazing lady with a big heart. Next time I'm in Chico, I know who to make a beeline for...

 

I typically don't trust people at first, but I would trust this woman. Please do not abuse her hospitality, which will make you just look bad. Trustworthy, warm and wacky, beautiful and blissful, fair and funny, friendly and fun, active in the community (quite inspirational). Please buy a bicycle, keep fighting for your causes and your people. love you too.

 

Oh Donna, the house with out you seems almost empty! Waking up by the delicious smell of uevos rancheros and the house filled with Donnas happy laughter, it felt like home and she was gone as soon as she came, was it a dream?. Donna has the talent to bring people together with the love she spreads and the sunshine she brings into the house with her happy nature, gratitude and honesty. My best wishes to!

Oh Donna! She's wonderful. Charming and direct, open and vivacious. We sit around and brainstorms adverbs in ode to her in her absence. I've chosen just a few. I'd love to chill with Donna one of these days. Who wouldn't?

 

I knew about Donna long before I knew Donna. I had heard tales of her amazing personality and even more amazing food and she no one could do her justice with words. She is more than a person, she is an experience. I will meet up with Donna again, we need to make amazing lamb chops and hang out with bottles of wine. You should probably try and have a Donna experience for yourself if you want to have any idea of what I am talking about. Do it, do it now!

 

Donna will give all she has for CS and her collective kids! She arrived with waaaaaay more luggage than she was allowed to just to bring us a food processor to cook us sublime dinners! We got lost in Chch and got lost in Picton (haha) and she left wayyyy too early. Donna rocks and she knows it but we should still remind her from time to time! We love you Donna!

wonderful wonderful donna!!

 

A true Feng Shui master... amongst things like cooking, keeping the books, having fun, and keeping folks in line. Now a women of her character and demeanor should not be taken lightly or she will kick your butt. A legend in her own time. Someday Oh Donna...someday we WILL meet again.

Ohdonna! Top o' the mornin to ya! You are as delicious as the food you cook-and that's a BIG compliment-yum! You made us feel sooo welcome and in short you rule.

 

Donna has a massıve heart. She passes out hugs and kindness like special gifts to brighten your day with a generosity that is unmatchable. She opens her heart and her door to everyone and gives you the support you need to show your mettle. İt was a great experience to spend time with her.

 

I love Donna, how could I not!!! She has this ray of awesomenest around her!!! I'm so happy to have had the opportunity of seeing Donna again in NZ. I'm really fortunate to know her and know that we will get to see each other again and again!!!! Donna YOU ROCK :D

Donna fitted in well to my temporarilly over busy scene. She went out of her way to cook a nice meal. I found her chatty and friendly with a good vibe, sorry to miss the CS Bbq.Thanks for your energy.

I know that Donna is dedicated to making the world better, and it makes me happy to know her. She's such a strong, vibrant, joyful, talented, and bright woman. I love being around her!

 

We met at the collective, and what can i say, donna is a great person. thx for the awesome meals :)...

Gudonya from Guatemala Love! Too Cool.. Donna is a Multi Talented Chef Extrordinaire, BarTender, and awesome Amiga! We Love Her like our own! We adopted her, actually. This is a Traveler you can learn from and Connect with! You have to meet her!

 

Donna ROCKS! We hung out for a while in Baja, dinking wine, going to great parties, and solving the world's problems. With Donna, I feel like I've not only made a friend, but an ally. I look forward to surfing with her some more sometime soon.

 

Definatly an awesome lady! lol she's the queen bee of Chico couchsurfing =D

 

Donna's a friggin hoot! We recently attended the High Sierra music fest together, and had a blast. She has also introduced me to some of the great people of the world.

 

There's NEVER a time where I don't want to go visit Donna. I love her!

 

Shhh... don't tell anyone, Donna let me stay on her couch even after she said no more CSers. It's all about who you know. And Donna knows half of Chico. Now I do too. She can show you where to fix your bike and where to find the best tacos in Chico and where to get alcohol, even when you forgot your ID :) And yes, she cooks too. Magnificently.

Donna is the best!!! She is always there, always happy and always willing to help out.

Donna, Donna, Donna... she's a wonderful woman enjoying life with no problem. She love laughing, have good dinner and wine hahhaha Thanks Donna for all you have done and I wish that a lot of poeple will have the chance to know you. That's a must!!! I love you Donna :-)

 

The Best Cook I have EVER known in the world, and I can stop by for dinner any time I want because we live very close!! She is sending couchsurfers to me from now on, but she will cook all the meals! What a deal. It's a win/win!! It's good to have a friend like this one.

 

In short Donna is amazing. She went out of her way to find me a couch even in a time when there were 5 other slated to sleep at her house. I feel lucky that I had the opportunity to stay with her.

Donna served us one of her legendary feasts. Her cooking is extraordinary, her hospitality is unwavering, her friends are just as sweet, and she definitely knows how to have a good time. Thanks for being my awesome first official CS host!

I'm hungry, will you make me food? I love it when Donna makes me food. She has hands-down created the best chili I have ever tasted as well as a host of other culinary delights! She is witty, resourceful and a loyal friend.

We asked Donna to stay with her but she had another surfer. She was very helpful, and she made sure we find another place to stay. She had us over for dinner, the food was great and tasty. Donna is a great person with a big heart and also fun.

 

Donna surfed our couch two days. She brought not only her smile and great sense of humor, but also one bottle of wine per night. I can tell you that was not enough for our late night talks. Donna really enjoys life. most of us should learn from her.

 

More than a great cook. Ran into her at burning man. Slept in her truck for two nights when my sleeping sitation did not turn out. Could not refuse the offer to Chico and see her community and the true extent of her warm and funny soul.

Donna is such a great addition to Couchsurfing. She can cook the most amazing dishes anyone has ever tasted and she's got a wild streak in her too that you have to see to believe. She warms the room whenever she enters and brings gifts to all she befriends. A very fun loving classy woman.

 

What a girl! If you don't mind someone taking over your kitchen, and I was a willing assistant in mine, then this is the person to invite to your little homestead. She is not only an excellent cook but she is great company to boot. Just make sure you have plenty of wine handy!!

 

Donna is a superstar. The only reason I waited for her to request my friendship is that I knew EVERYONE would be pestering her!!! Everyone Donna meets falls in love with her, and not just because of the exceptional food! Donna is a total free spirit and so kind it would make your ears bleed! Can't wat to meet again!

Donna is a treat to all the senses. She is friendly, uplifting, and extremely humorous, and I find myself dancing at just the sight of her! Thanks for all your help at the Collective Donna. You're what CS is all about.

Biggest smile and the brightest blue eyes... Thirty years of smiles and bright blue eyes. Donna is the warmest, most giving, caring person I know. When you first meet Donna she treats you as if she has known you all her life. It doesn't matter if you are the girl at the register or someone she has invited into her home. She if fun, loving and the friendliest person I know. I should know this about her, we have been great friends for close to thirty years. Love that girl!!
Rose

Donna is the mother you wish you had when 30 friends decided that Friday night was a party at your house night. You're shittin bricks and unsure how your parents will handle it. Donna would welcome each friend with open arms, not to mention she would prepare a gourmet feast ... just remember this chef enjoys good vino.

 

Donna loves to cook with wine and sometimes she even adds some in the food ;) What an amazing week I've already spent with you how will I manage to make the food good enough after you're gone ? ...and yeah I'll keep the secret ;);)
(Donna makes the best food ever !!)

 

Donna is an excellent couch-surfer! She is lots of fun, with an easy wit and open sharing nature. She is a wizard in the kitchen, and very enjoyable company!

 

Donna was the best host a girl could ask for! She was laid back and comfortable with my long stay and did everything possible to make me feel at home in Chico! I had a great time enjoying her stories, watching some movies and enjoying her delicious cooking. I really admire Donna and her life in Chico. She seems to have it all figured out. It was such a great experience to couch surf with Donna. She really is a wonderful woman.

 

GUDONYA MATE. My friend Donna. A ZEST FOR LIFE is the first thing that comes to mind. She has a contagious smile and laugh and is just a beautiful human being (oh, did I forget the gorgeous eyes and that her cooking is like "you died and went to heaven"?). Suffice to say that she drove 500 kms to Santiago from Bilbao just to pick a friend up and drive him another 600 kms to see San Sebastian. This shows you what kind of a friend she is. More people like Donna would make this world a better place. What can I say? I just love this lady. Gudonya baby. Besos y abrazos

 

Donna is so fun! She rocked the CSC kitchen and touched my heart.
Can't wait to see you at Burning Man and visit you in Chico!

Donna Rocks! She is a fun person to hang out with, full of interesting conversation and wise thoughts. She is an expert in the kitchen, and loves to share a nice glass of vino!

You have to Meet Donna!!! Donna is awesome and does everything with real flare and heart! We Love her and highly, highly recommend spending some time traveling with or staying with Donna, she is a Fantastic cook and Bartender too!
She is off to Montreal to help out, need I say more! An Amazing Friend! If we only had more Donna's in this World and community. She has a Great Dog also! Peace and Hugs, Sharon, Zoe, Dwight and Aleeya

 

Mamma is a great cook!!
She has a magical sense of taste that caters to all taste here at collective in Montréal.
She was also a big hearted lady who could say anything without worrying about someone taking it too seriously.
I seriously miss all those salsas that she made, and of course, the CSC kitchen is never the same without her. . .

Cooked the best vegetarian meal (vegetable lasagna)I have ever had for me and everyone at the couch surfing collective on our last night (for both of us) in Montreal.

 

Donna is a very generous, insightful and delightful person. She's curious, a lot of fun to be around and an amazing cook! Lucky are those who cross her path. She's on a mission. ;)

My Goddess Mother, My Auntie. Stay with her!! Host her!! She will make you great, yummy food. She will Nurture You. She will take you places you have never been before and you will love it! I guarantee you! We are family and she is one with all of us.

 

She is a great chef. Great person. And knows her food and wine like the back of her hand. If you host her take her shopping for ingredients and let her cook you dinner, it will be one of the best experiences of your life!

You must have her cook for you. she loves to and you will love her for it! trust me you will be in heavenly bliss after the first bite.

Fire spirit. Staying with Donna is an unforgetable experience! I was welcomed into her home as if I was family and was lucky enough to enjoy the magic of Donna's culinary skills. This gal has zeal.

 

Gardening Gourmet. Staying with Donna would be a highlight of your trip...a gastronomical delight, not to mention a comfortable atomosphere. It wouldn't take much to talk her into cooking a meal for you!...no pressure,
Donna :-). She has a beautiful vegetable garden, a nice big back yard and a gourmet kitchen that suits her uunforgetable cooking! I've known her for 6 years or so and she is a very trustworthy, reliable and down to earth person. Surf on!

Great zest for life and wonderful person. I have known Donna for 15+ years. We met through a friend in Mexico and she let me live with her for a few months until I found my own place. We have been great friends ever since! She is friendly, kind, honest and so supportive. She is a true friend and very trustworthy - I too would trust her with my life. Her energy is infectious! I hope to meet up with her in Spain!

A Great Laugh. Donna is great company with a huge smile and a great laugh! We had a great time chatting and discovering Cantabria. She is just a nice, fun and spirited person!