About Us
How We Became Bee Lovers - Chris's Story
Over 25 years ago, while working in our yard, I was stung by several bees. Annoyed, I ignored the lumps and went back to work. The next morning, I woke up feeling decades younger—my usual arthritis aches were gone! That’s when I discovered the surprising anti-inflammatory effects of bee venom. Reading further, I learned that honey and other bee products offer similar health benefits.
That winter, I decided to try raising honey bees—a hobby my “better half” and I could share, and one that might boost my health. Growing up resourceful, I found ways to start without spending much, even using recycled pallets to build my woodenware. We joined local bee clubs, attended meetings, and learned from experienced beekeepers.
Hands-on experience proved invaluable. We began with just 2 hives, grew to 5 the next year, and now maintain around 30 colonies, depending on swarms. Over time, others asked for guidance, and we started relocating swarms and removing hornets. Our hobby grew into a small business—retirement was never really my thing anyway!
Through beekeeping, we’ve not only gained knowledge but also met wonderful people who share our passion for honey bee health and their vital role in our food supply.
Chris’s Latest Adventure
Chris’s educational video about honeybees was used as part of Norwalk Summer Academy for over 1,250 students. The children loved it and learned to respect bees, understanding they just want to smell flowers. A snippet of the video will be featured in a mini-documentary at the September 5 Back-to-School celebration at Stepping Stones, highlighting healthy foodshed education.
Old Beekeepers’ Saying
"A swarm in May is worth a load of hay; a swarm in June is worth a silver spoon; but a swarm in July is not worth a fly."
– Mid 17th century, reminding us that later swarms have less time to collect nectar and pollen.
How We Named The Apiary - Kathy's Story
We all have pet names for our life partners. Over 40 years ago, during a Caribbean scuba trip, we spotted a little monkey tied to a tree with a sign: “Dangerous Monkey – Do Not Touch.” Naturally, we petted him. From that moment, I started calling Chris “Monkey”—tough and intimidating on the outside, but kind at heart.
Around the same time, as a pediatric nurse, I was searching for colorful uniform tops with pockets to hold supplies. On a trip to Mexico, Chris started calling me “Pockets.”
For the past 45+ years, our nicknames have been ‘Monkey’ and ‘Pockets’—hence Monkey’s Pocket Apiary. Corny? Maybe. True? Absolutely.
Food for Thought
- Give a friend some honey, you will satisfy them till the honey is gone.
- Encourage them to raise and nurture honey bees,
- You will have a friend for life, helped Mother Nature in her plight to save our ravaged planet,
- But most of all do a righteous act that will be appreciated long after you are gone!
~Monkey (Chris)