My Nonprofit Reviews

When my son was four years old, we had an opportunity to join a small group of farm-schooled teenagers from northern Virginia who were in Floyd County to visit Spikenard Honeybee Sanctuary. Prior to this visit, my son was extremely scared of any insect with wings (including the common gnat). He would become hysterical when a bee or wasp flew near to him. Our visit, in particular sitting down in the shade near the hives with Gunter and the other students, changed my son's perspective on this interesting part of nature and really cured him of his fears of flying insects. Gunter told my son exactly what he needed to do - be calm, quiet and slow when a bee or wasp came near him. Later, when my son offered to the group what he knew about wasps being aggressive, he was strengthened in his knowing as Gunter confirmed with a gentle, wise and honest humor: Yes, you are sure to be stung if you poke a big stick in a hornet's nest, so don't do that. There is something very magical about Gunter and his way, Vivian and her way, and everyone I've met working and volunteering at Spikenard Honeybee Sanctuary. Since that first visit, I have become an aspiring biodynamic gardener, we as a family are learning the methods taught at Spikenard for setting up an apiary and are overjoyed that both our hives survived our first winter together . My son who is now 7 joins us when we visits the bees and feels safe in his bee hood. He takes great care and responsibility to button everything up and tuck everything in so no bees get trapped in his clothes. We have come so far since that first visit and are eternally grateful to the spirit and wonderful people that sustain Spikenard Farm Honeybee Sanctuary with their love and hard work. A visit or workshop will surely change your life.