Bees and Dogs and One More Meeting

We had a lot of fun tonight with two activities.  We had our regular beekeeper meeting and then we had our last obedience class with Hank.  Since the meetings were at the same time, we had to split up to make this happen.  I was very thankful for the help from Amanda and Katy.

Amanda took Henry and Edward (along with Brendan) to work with Hank.  Since this was the last class, they mainly worked on review and 'testing' Hank's ability to follow the commands.  He was able to earn two more patches (Leave and Down).  The instructor talked about an advanced obedience course.  I would love for Hank to join this group but I am not sure we would be able to make this before moving.

While they were busy outside, Sean and I attended the beekeeper meeting (along with Zaira and Katy).  The guest was the state apiary inspector.  We learned that he is the only inspector for all of Texas (there were once three but they have since retired) and he travels on most days throughout the year.

He spoke to us about how to treat for mites in our hives.  We were told that if inspecting hives and there appears to be more than 4% infestation, then some form of treatment should be taken to protect the hive.  He spoke about several options for prevention and treatment.  This was very helpful.

After he completed his talk, Sean introduced himself and ask questions about entering into the profession.  Mr. Baxter spoke about his experience (26 years) and how to go to school in order to find a position.  According to him, A&M is the only school in Texas that offers a Bachelor's degree in entomology.  He also mentioned that all graduates leave school employed in the field.

He also encouraged Sean to visit him at the university.  He emphasized this many times and I hope we are able to follow through with this opportunity.

Finally, we were able to enjoy refreshments with the group.  A daughter of one of our members just graduated from culinary school and offered to make a cake for the occasion.  She made an amazing beehive cake!

Along with all of this fun...which we really do love and will miss so much...we also had one more 4H meeting.  We hope to find a new 4H home in San Antonio but I do not think we will be able to go to any more 4H meeting here.  It was a sad thought as we started our 4H journey here but it will be for the best to just stop our activity here and move forward.