Package bees ready for pickup from Tim WIlbanks / Kalona Honey Company.
   Being there to help distribute the packages was great. It always amazes me how friendly bee people are. I grew up in a small town, so I am used to everyone being friendly, but bee people seem to take it that one extra step.

   Tim came back from Georgia with nearly 700 packages of bees on this trip. There are a PILE of bees stacked in his garage. Throughout the day Friday people trickled in and picked up their orders. Always friendly and always happy to talk bees. The day passed so fast that I was startled when my wife called to say she was on her way home from work.  An enjoyable day to be sure. Tim, his wife and kids are good people to know. Tim Grew up with bees, so can spout bee information with only a "little" nudge in the right direction. Friendly Iowa Hospitality at its best.

  The bees were installed Saturday afternoon. One dead queen that Tim quickly replaced. Getting packages from someone who has a vested interest in seeing the bees he sells you SURVIVE is a bonus that is hard to find now days.
   I posted a vid of the days proceedings under the getting started Page. Scroll down to the Package installation section to find the video. I got a few stings, that was fine, then the wife got it, that wasn't so good....   She CONSTANTLY yells at all of us if we swear, so Revenge by posting this ONLINE is SWEET!!!!  Until she sees it, then I will probably PAY!!

   Keep your bees Happy!!!!!
   Scott

  Most of the cutouts I had scheduled were canceled because the bees did not survive the winter, but slowly more calls are coming in. I have a cut out scheduled in a couple of days, so with luck we will get vid and pictures, as well as add some seemingly hard to get bees to the Apiary.
   As you can see in the picture, the dandelions are in full bloom. I cultivate them as you can see in the picture below.

   I have about six acres of dandelion infested yard and pasture. I love it, but I am quite sure neighbors are shaking their heads.
   With swarm cells showing up, Swarm season is about to start. Captured swarms will hopefully add to the hive count. The fun is about to begin! Stand by for updates!
   Scott