Bees...plus Wildfires!

Tonight we went to the local beekeeper meeting.  I love this group because they always have interesting speakers from various places.  Last month we had the Texas Bee Queen (along with her court) join us to talk about her bee experiences.  The boys loved that because they brought yummy honey recipes (along with samples!). 

This month we arrived to find a man from Huntsville talking to the group about 'top hive boxes.'  I have to admit we were late so it took me a while to figure out why anyone would go to so much trouble to cut the sides of a hive in 120 degree angles.  However, I slowly realized that this was an amazing technique that could be used in places (mainly in third world countries) with little wood or other resources that we take for granted.  The key was setting up a hive with only the top frame with a small lip that would allow the bees enough space to form their own comb.  The only material needed was the top of the frame placed in a simple frame.  The angle measurement was created for easy removal and was a natural form for the bees to work at optimum performance for the hive. 

The boys have really enjoyed becoming beekeepers over the last few months.  On a slow week, I will try to post about these experiences. 

However, I want to finish off this post by bragging on my boys.  We have been very concerned about the people in Central and East Texas who are losing their homes to the wildfires.  This has been an ongoing problem due to the drought.  However, this last week, we have really been hit hard.  There are so many people left homeless.  On top of this, our volunteer fire departments have exhausted their resources and themselves trying to stop these fires. 

Last night we were called by our neighbor who works for a non-profit search & rescue team.  He asked if the boys could help out.  When I asked them if they were willing to help, they jumped at the chance.  I think they thought they were going to actually put out the fires!  That is why I am so proud of them...they were willing to do whatever was asked of them to help with the wildfires.  They were actually a little disappointed that they were only asked to haul water to a local volunteer fire department.  However, they willing rolled up their sleeves and got the job done!  Maybe next time boys!  God bless you for your desire to help, and God bless all those affected by the fires and the volunteers who get these fires under control.

This truly shows how we try to 'make the best better!'