Childhood in Vermont: A Natural Connection

From a tender age, Robert was captivated by the lush landscapes of Vermont. Raised amidst the verdant mountains, his childhood was a tapestry of sparkling streams, tranquil rivers, and serene lakes.

A Fateful Journey Across the Atlantic

At just five years old, a voyage to England with his family expanded his horizons—quite literally—to include the ocean. It was on this journey that young Robert made a resounding declaration: he was destined for the Navy and, curiously enough, a parrot tattoo.

Adventures in the Navy: A Global Exploration

As years rolled by, the documentaries of Jacques Cousteau fueled his fascination with ocean life. Eventually, Robert made good on his childhood promise by enlisting in the United States Navy. Stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, he explored the wonders of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, delving into marine biology and gaining a profound understanding of the necessity to protect our blue planet.

A Return to Civilian Life: Always an Environmentalist

Upon leaving the Navy—now sporting the prophesied parrot tattoo from Hawaii—Robert resettled in Vermont, embarking on a career in construction. Yet, the call of the sea remained irresistible. Family vacations often revolved around eco-adventures in destinations like the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and the Florida Keys.

Inspiration from the Next Generation: Ronnie the Raindrop

The inquisitive mind of his young daughter, asking, “Where does water come from?”, sparked the inception of Ronnie the Raindrop. Initially a cherished family bedtime story, it eventually morphed into a book series aimed at instilling a sense of environmental stewardship in younger generations.