And the months go by...
I have remained in this lovely area of Ontario (Lindsay/Bowmanville, etc) in order to further explore agricultural learning. Through my work with Lunar Rhythm Gardens, I met the knowledgeable master beekeeper, Ian Critchell (http://www.beeman.ca), and I have moved on to work with him in what will hopefully develop into an informal apprenticeship. I have much to learn, but I am fascinated already not only by the important and complex nature of bees' work, but also by their under-acknowledged and under-appreciated role in keeping us humans fed.
Getting a dialogue going with people about bees is also complex. Most people like, if not love, honey and related products, but they don't like bees. Most people also don't understand the delicate balance between bees, plant life and the poisons we put into our environment unthinkingly. Bees keep us alive, and we need to respect them. Preaching never works unless you have the charisma of a cult leader. Providing good role models for potential beekeepers and customers and letting people see your passion for the work can open a crack in the communication doorway.
Talk to your local beekeeper today to hear the buzz.
