Growing up I wished for nothing more than the life of a songbird. Not because I had dreams of flying, but because I had the desire to live life with a bird’s sense of purpose. To me a songbird understands its needs, and its objective is to have them met. All its movements, all its doings are not driven by what it has read is best, but rather what its spirit, soul, and surroundings are telling it to do. To rise with the dawn, and to bed with the dusk. To follow the seasons in a way that is nothing short of magic. The songbird’s first instinct isn’t to turn on the media to listen to another’s thoughts on the weather, it is to interpret the world around for itself. To be as in touch with nature as the chickadees and sparrows. People are named a birdbrain when they are not complex - when they are seen as simple. But maybe songbirds are the ones who have it all figured out. They are attentive to their spirit, they fulfill their needs, and start every day with a song.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and animal behavior has always been something I have loved. I can spend hours watching, reading about, and being immersed in animal behavior. Birds are an easy one to watch and fall in love with. Cornell’s eBird is a fun tool if the world of birding interests you. Beaks, Bones and Bird Songs is a book I just discovered and is on my reading list for when I next get the itch to pick up a book.

My cup is overflowing starting this new week. Last week I was emotional and overwhelmed, but with the help of a wonderful husband, great parents, beautiful friends, and my sweet little town of Vergas - my heart is full. Make time to check out Skal’s new remodel, Blackboard’s Sunday Brunch, and 180 Balance’s Hot Yoga at some point. I am so grateful I got to treat myself to all three this week.