Did you know that it's possible to raise not just honeybees, but also native bees? In this episode, you'll hear from Valerie Wampler, a full-time federal employee (I'm sending love to all of you out there!!) and full-time beekeeper. She cares for her hives, teaches classes on queen rearing, making nucs and splits, rendering beeswax and using it for bath & body products, and now...harvesting mason bees!

Hear from Valerie on the importance of giving back, being part of a supportive community, and advocating for all aspects of the environment, including our dear little pollinators. For more information on the classes she teaches through MSBA and beyond, you may email her at valwampler@yahoo.com.

What is nature therapy? In several episodes of this podcast, my guests and I talk about the mental health benefits of beekeeping. I may also have mentioned I was recently certified as a Nature Therapy Guide. This episode briefly explains nature therapy and how you can easily incorporate it. You don't even have to be the outdoorsy type. Your body and mind will thank you!

To learn more, reach out to me at www.AtticBeeLLC.com

The owners of Vintage Family Farms joined me to talk about their flower farm operation and the importance of allowing pollinators to thrive. Their approach to farming, agritourism, and "flowertainment" is intriguing AND admirable!