It finally stopped raining for the first time in days. Still cold and cloudy. Not a good week to be a bee. I got all suited up to check on them and see if the queen was free. She wasn't, not that I could see her because her box was covered in bees. A sure sign she is still inside. I also needed to flip my bottom board and add an entrance reducer. Two things I was reminded of at our last class. These are the things I learned today.

1. Painted hive bodies stick together after days in the rain.
2. Remember to bring tools for unsticking.
3. It is extremely difficult to keep my smoker lit enough to smoke but no so hot it cooks my bees.
4. My entrance reducer does not fit with my feeder on.
5. I really can make my own.
6. I should wear safety goggles while operating power tools.
7. The dogs have figured out it is me in my veil and have stopped barking.