I didn't always like bees. In fact, I have many terrible childhood memories of being stung by flying stripey things that left me quite skittish of anything with wings well into adulthood.
It was my very perseverant husband who initially convinced me to get a couple of hives for the backyard so that we could experiment with mead-making. They arrived on my son's due date. My son would not arrive for another 12 days, giving the bees plenty of time to settle in.
Anyone who knows me will tell you that I never do anything half-assed. That's somewhat of my life's motto, actually. So it didn't take long for me to dive headlong into the world of bees, watching, reading, and learning with my hands in the hive.
Quickly our backyard hobby grew into a side hustle, and from there into a full-fledged business that I have now taken on full-time.
Previously, I spent 15 years as a wildland firefighter. When I chose to leave that career to spend more time with my children, I mourned the loss for several years. I was working as a middle school science and math teacher, but teaching was not filling the void left by firefighting. Beekeeping has finally filled that void.
I love the physical aspect of a hard day of heavy lifting when we harvest honey. I love taking a break on the tailgate for a cold drink when I'm sweating in my bee suit all afternoon. I love the problem-solving and experimenting that are required to be successful as a beekeeper. And I love the bees themselves and the way they make me marvel at the beauty and complexity of nature.
I'm so excited that you've decided to join me on this incredible journey. Welcome to my hive.
Christine
Awesome Christine, I am looking forward to reading all your fun antics and i am sure there are going to be lots. Love this