Sister Bee » Notes

Marjorie McLellan, 1925 – 2010

laura — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:23:42 +0000

Marjorie McLellan, the “older” beekeeper in Sister Bee, passed away on Friday, July 16th.

“You know, you reach a time in your life when you’re not trying to impress. You just want to get along.” – Marge McLellan

The above quote is one of my favorites from Sister Bee. It’s a tricky one. I don’t think I got it at first. I knew it was important when Marge said it because her tone shifted from lighthearted self-deprecation to solemnity. I used to think it had something to do with resignation and the giving up or softening of ones opinions/principles/stridency with age. Today I see it differently. I think it’s about an opening that comes with maturity. When we’re young we have so much to prove. As we age and gain confidence it’s possible to take a break from proving ourselves to listen and appreciate what others have to offer. I think it’s about empathy.

Marge McLellan using the uncapping knife on a frame of honey

Marge McLellan modeled graceful aging for me. She was a dear friend and mentor to many. I miss her already.

Marge McLellan walking with her garden cart

Midsummer Night’s Eve

laura — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 16:56:44 +0000

“Tonight is Midsummer Night’s Eve, also called St. John’s Eve. St. John is the patron saint of beekeepers. It’s a time when the hives are full of honey. The full moon that occurs this month was called the Mead Moon, because honey was fermented to make mead. That’s where the word “honeymoon” comes from, because it’s also a time for lovers. An old Swedish proverb says, ‘Midsummer Night is not long but it sets many cradles rocking.’”

- The Writer’s Almanac

Another tough winter

laura — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:44:27 +0000

Have you heard? It’s been another tough winter for the bees. There’s a good interview with Colorado beekeeper and friend of Sister Bee Tom Theobald on KSIR’s Noon Farm Show.

- Laura

Sister Bee beekeeper to teach beekeeping in Boulder, CO

laura — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 21:50:44 +0000

Learn beekeeping from Sister Bee beekeeper Julie Finley. Register and find out more at Growing Gardens of Boulder County. Highly recommended.

- Laura

Beesource

laura — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:31:05 +0000

There’s a nice Sister Bee thread on the beekeeping forum, Beesource. Includes commentary about Sister Bee being an all women production.

- Laura

Sister Bee Trailer now available on YouTube

laura — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 22:28:27 +0000

The Sister Bee trailer is now available on YouTube! I hope this is helpful for those of you unable to view the QuickTime movie on the home page. You’re warmly invited to pass it on to your friends.

Thank you.

- Laura