I didn't set out to create natural, organic all body care using what the bees produced. It just evolved that way. I made products for myself. Body cream, salves to manage poison ivy contact while working around the property. Medicinal salves to manage my arthritis. As I shared some of my creations with friends and family they became quite popular because they were effective. So not only was I extracting the honey, beeswax, propolis and pollen to sell from the farm gate I was filling requests for everything I was making. There is very little waste in making honey and at the same time the bees are pollinating the crops and increasing yields. My sweet little apiary became a success beyond the intention.
Bee keeping is a very environmentally friendly business where you are improving it and giving back to nature. Bees are considered livestock. So a farmer knows the worth of their livestock.
In beekeeping you are always learning. Mentors are a must and most willing to share their knowledge to help you be as successful as possible. Search out Beekeeping groups in your area through social media and join in on the conversation. No question is a silly question.
Originally starting with two hives soon turned into seven and some years more. Sometimes less. All these hives need to be worked and the bees prefer a calm and quiet beekeeper. Going into the hive is as close as this girl has to meditation. When I am opening a hive I listen to them. This will tell you how they are feeling. Clumsy banging and bumping is not zen. One of the challenges I face is the weight of the boxes. I have switched to medium honey supers so I can lift them myself with out breaking my back. Raising the hives to allow me to remove supers easier. Beekeeping can be hot, back breaking work so any leverage is helpful.
Beekeeping can be quite challenging this day and age and winter losses vary year to year. That being said there are many local ethical beekeepers that I support should my demand become more than I can supply.
I am the primary owner of Beewitched Potions and Garlic House portion of the farm here in the Ottawa Valley near Eganville, Ontario. The farm is dedicated to producing high quality Honey, Garlic and Hay. The fields, marshlands, fruit trees, mixed hardwood and deciduous trees benefit our bees allowing them to forage for everything they need close to the hive.
So today on International Woman's Day I celebrate all women beekeepers and the men that work with the bees. Those of the hive stick together. Male or female. We need one another.
Go to https://www.beewitchedpotions.ca/ and indulge in a ritual of natural self care the bees and I create.
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