My Bees get Visitors

My dad wanted to come by the house to show his brother all of my shenanigans -- the chickens, the garden, the bees. He's pretty proud. He thinks the world needs a 'Sandra Show' -- like Martha, but more down to earth. I told him "Dad, tons of people do this." He wont be moved. 

When my parents and uncle pulled up to the house, I offered to suit up in my bee outfit and show off the bees. I have one other 'grown up' suit and veil. My uncle wanted to look from a distance after a bad experience with yellow jackets and his youngest son, now in his forties. Dad jumped at the chance -- he couldn't wait! Checking out the inner workings of a honey bee hive wasn't on his 'bucket list', but he quickly made the addition!

Benjamin, who is often at school when I go into my hives, was thrilled to be able to put on his suit and take a look. Here I am after a long battle with my smoker puffing the front of the hive. Dad is in the back left, Benjamin back right looking on.

Looking at the frames.

Sadly I didn't see the queen -- which always gets me nervous -- 

because I don't know where she is, 

I worry about crushing her when I slide the frames back into place.

One exciting piece of news from my hives -- my first batch of baby bees have been born! 

A large patch of capped brood (where the babies do their 'incubating') was uncapped and empty! Yipee!

(Benjamin is hidden behind the right hive.)

And here is Victor, my closet Master Bee Keeper in the making looking on without veil.

I want to get him in these hives, he'd be great at it. So mellow and low key.

The Visitors

Although the queen was feeling shy, all of the bees behaved beautifully during their showing.

Good little bees.