I’ve been a nature lover and casual birdwatcher for my entire adult life, but I never had much time for it. I spent 20+ years working my butt off in the culinary industry as a private chef, a pastry chef, and a wine and cheese buyer, among other things. That work was my passion, but by the time I was in my late 30’s, I burned out.

I left it behind a few years ago, and traded it in for a cushy desk job. It was good for me. I don’t regret it, and I don’t miss my old career. But I found myself with more energy, free time and head space than I knew what to do with. So I grabbed my binoculars, ordered an updated Sibley guide, and headed outside. Birding soon took hold of me, filled the void, and has enriched my life every day since.

The more I learned as a new brand-new birder, the more I realized that I could bird my entire life and never run out of things to be amazed by. My aim with this blog is to share my excitement about this, and hopefully entertain you while I do.

-Louise Ruggeri

12/09/18 Newport, Rhode Island