That's right, Lacey's sweet hive did indeed raise a new Queen and she seems just as sweet (and yes, lazy) as the one before.
Man, I just love those docile ladies!
I originally planned to stop in to help Lacey with her bees in the morning, but she rescheduled because her bee mentor was joining in the afternoon to check on the Queen status and the overall operation.
It was such a treat to meet Mike and watch a seasoned Beek in action! He didn't have on any protective equipment, he joked that he was too stupid to protect himself. He was so mellow and comfortable with the bees, which was not surprising, but cool to watch. What I did find surprising was how well he read the bees' behaviors. In my studies, I've learned that it's important to appropriately gauge each hive's behavior in order to be the least disruptive and most effective, but I didn't know what that looked like until today.
I don't know how to explain it other than it's like he was reading another language and responding to that culture's social cues accordingly. Friggin fascinating!
I guess he and his family live on acreage and he has cut down the number of hives to about 10-15 now. Today was the first time I met him, but I boldly invited myself to his home so he could show me all the things. I have no shame when it comes to these lovely ladies! We'll see if he's actually open to my imposition in the future. Super cool guy!
I eagerly help up my naked hands where he casually dropped a couple dozen beautiful honeybees. Seriously, OMG!
I've never felt anything like it and was totally mesmerized.
Most flew away quickly, but probably 10 of them hung out a bit longer on my one hand.
Then it dwindled to 1 small lovely lady who inspected each area of my hand for at least a full minute longer than her sisters.
It's becoming clearer that it's all about the bees for me. When I've been struggling with decisions regarding my career, etc, I fantasize about being with honeybees. I picture myself relaxing in a special secret garden, usually Bandit is sleeping next to me and I watch them work. They don't mind my presence or curiosity, they just keep working.
Occasionally one will take a break by landing on my hand, like the tiny lady from our last hive check. We share a moment and then she moves along back to work, ever content to fulfill her role.
This harmonious relationship is oddly emotional for me, much like the picture of Muse.
I keep thinking that my fascination and love for this photo of Muse will dwindle, but it's only grown.
Isn't she beautiful? I never would have thought I'd love an insect, especially one that I will never meet, but I do.
In the words of a local Beekeeper who I have yet to meet in person,
"Bees are the most amazing thing God created."
I agree that they are definitely top of my list too!
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