APRIL 2022

APRIL burst into bloom with apple blossoms, fresh air, the earth awakening from its winter sleep. Our activities were about to get into high gear. There was much to do, getting established for the year. Apple blossoms were calling to be pollinated, and extensive feeding was required for the trees to help them survive

As I worked on the orchard, Tim researched the area to find local suppliers to get the new apiary started. He cleared the area, cleaned up the hive boxes we had moved from Missouri and got ready for his new brood.

He found a local beekeeper, purchased 8 packages of bees and started up his hives at the edge of the woods. This gave them a clear path to the open area including the orchard, which was now in full bloom. The first year would be for building up colonies and watching how they did in VA.

With 7 of the remaining 8 apple trees blooming, it gave the bees something to do – the orchard looked promising. I had high hopes for fall apples. The bees took to them immediately – it was beautiful to see them and the yellow and black swallowtails, as well as numerous other pollinators working blossoms in the orchard and on the flowering cherry.

It was also time to order chicks, so we would have eggs this year. Again, Tim researched and ordered 26 chicks, delivered via US Mail (what a ruckus at the post office) He quickly finished their first brooding box.

After having unloaded the cargo trailer yet another time, it was clear the new 2-car garage, carport and existing lower shed did not provide enough space for our stuff. I needed garden tool space (my She Shed), so I ordered a 10 x 20’ garden shed (to keep track of all my tools, lest they wind up in places they should not).

We chose a spot next to the house by the unfinished access door. That put the shed between the house and garden - Perfect. Tim brought the tractor around and started grading the site.

About the same time, Tim ordered a 24 x 48 barn with a 12' lean-to on each side, so he would be able to house his honey operation, tractor, flat trailer and implements, as well as to the other animals he had wanted for years. It was a race. Who would get their building first.

The seeds planted in February were ready to harden off outside in preparation for planting in May. My scaffolding is a great tool for painting AND for moving plants in and out of the house

We took time off to celebrate Nat’s birthday and Nat and Mal’s anniversary, by going to the ballpark. Much smaller than Busch Stadium, but equally fun for all. Nat, Tim, and I were sporting Cardinal gear, and helped to cheer on The Memphis Redbirds, who beat the Durham Bulls that night. Score one for Redbirds, wherever they are. I don't want to mention, Nat was also wearing a Durham Bulls baseball cap.