Kate is a fabulous host who made me feel more than welcome. Her dog, Blu, is a little sweetie.
I was a bit worried about the train noise, but it turned out to be very muted and almost relaxing once inside the apartment. I really didn't even notice it after a couple of days. The only real downside is that the apartment is a bit dark, being shaded by the Manhattan Bridge above and to the south.
DUMBO is definitely up and coming with great restaurants and coffee shops. The north end of the river trail (Brooklyn Bridge Park) starts in DUMBO and winds south along the river for several miles with great views of Manhattan...a must-see adventure.
The A train is within several blocks (maybe 8) of the apartment (High Street station) and connects quickly to Manhattan and Kennedy Airport.
I definitely recommend Kate's fun and funky apartment, and the bed is very comfortable to boot.