Finally -
I got my nuc of bees Monday. Drove 1 1/2 hours and then waited another 1 1/2 hours for the bees. They had some trouble in the fields. Took them home and the next day when it got up to 60 degrees I put them in their new home. I was kind of nervous, but I suited up (didn't want the bees to go into "attack mode" as Lead Pipe says) and jumped in. I pried the lid off and smoked them, but forgot to wait a couple of minutes like I was told. They were very gentle though. I didn't mess around too long - didn't want to piss them off the first day! Got them all snug in the hive and stood back and watched. I was so proud when I saw them finding the water and drinking.
Felt like a new parent. In a couple of days I am supposed to look for eggs to be sure the queen didn't get killed in transport. Now I am sort of nervous about that. Am afraid I won't be able to recognize them. (Although I've seen them in books many times, the real thing may be different.) Wish I had a mentor close by. Have spoken with a couple of other beekeepers in the area, but they must be too busy right now. I will keep everyone updated.
