January Inspection

A quick look into the hives in January in a beautiful clear light. 

One hive recovered from the foulbrood but the other is almost dead.  

We only found about 100 bees huddling in the box.  

Nothing we could do for them but wait for them to die.  

It was heartbreaking to see them that way and know we could not help them.  

These photos celebrate the beauty and light in the living hives.  

Spring is just around the corner. 

Bee Poetry

This beeing-- is a guest house
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
-rumi.