House Sitter in Chicago, Illinois

Hi I’m Lee! Nice to e-meet you! :) I’m an actress, director and teacher around town, and I would love to care for your home while you’re away. I get a lot of energy from being in new spaces, and often consider it a little retreat. I’m passionate about holding space, cultivating good energy where I go, keeping the good energy flowing that’s already there. Having been an Airbnb host in my own apartment, I know how important it is to actively care for your home. That certain something you feel when a home has had positive, thoughtful inhabitants is intangible but very, very real! I’m passionate about filling my own home with good vibes, and would love to do the same for yours. Guests have described my space as “artistic,” “charming” and “cozy,” and “perfectly clean and comfortable,” with consistently positive remarks about my communication and friendliness. I like to think that I’ve left some warmth, creativity, and restfulness for them, and guests, both friends and strangers, have agreed! I would like to share that easygoingness and generosity of spirit with you and your home. In terms of housesitting, I’ve housesat for several families in the Chicago area, often petsitting, as well. It’s such a joy to sit with morning coffee in a new home, and even more so when there are loving pets around. I’ve dog- and cat-sat for young, rambunctious ones, as well as aging dogs with serious health problems. I treat them as if they were my own, responding quickly to any emergencies and offering lots of love and care. And in terms of being a houseguest, well, this vagabond-artist lifestyle has had me sleep on more couches and in more spare rooms than I care to remember, from here to Montana, sometimes just stopping through, and sometimes for weeks at a time during a gig. I consider myself well-versed in the art of “leaving no trace” but gratitude. I’m also a nanny, which involves quite a bit of light housework, tidying, some cooking. I would of course pull out all of my hosting and nannying skills and leave your space cleaner than I found it. For an additional fee, I would be more than happy to offer an additional deep clean, if that’s something you’re interested in. I’d even be delighted to leave you a home-cooked meal for your return. I do usually travel and housesit (and often babysit!) with my little dog, and it would be ideal for me to bring him along, although I’m often able to find him a sitter of his own, if he would be a deal-breaker for you. Presley is a ten-pound shelter mutt I rescued while working in Idaho, a bundle of love and kindness. He opens hearts wherever he goes - it’s really incredible to watch. A few years back, he broke his two front legs, which never healed properly after surgery, and he has a limp that only makes him more endearing. He’s well-behaved and very good with other dogs and children. Because of his legs, I leave him in a crate whenever I leave him alone. Anyway, that’s the run-down of my home-care experience! I would be happy to tell you more about my theater work, which has included shows at Steppenwolf, The Goodman, Brooklyn Academy of Music, and others! I teach acting at The Artistic Home and occasionally at ChiArts High School. Please reach out with any questions! Best, Lee