Bob Eby

Background

About Bob Eby

It all started with an impulse. I had read an article about the concern for bees, and had watched some videos about how bees were in danger. I became interested. I dug a little deeper and realized that the Ontario Bee Association was holding some courses in a few weeks, and on an impulse, I signed up to take the course. I thought I just wanted to find out a little bit more about this bee problem but I became hooked. The course fascinated me, and after a discussion with my wife, I bought and set up two hives within the week and so our story began. I was told that the first season would not reap much of a harvest. But my first summer I had some very busy bees and some great weather. I was surprised to see the boxes literally overflowing with honey. So I found myself bottling my very first harvest of honey. Family, friends and neighbours were excited to receive a jar. I sold out within a weekend, and knew that I needed to expand the following year. Now 4 years in we moved to Moorefield because more space was needed to make work and family life easier. We are excited to see where it will take us. Beekeeping is fascinating. There is so much to learn, so much to see, and so much to do. The bees are constantly busy, and it is just amazing watching them work. I get a little excited every time I pull up to the bee yard. I can't wait to see what they have been up to. I was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome when I was 7 years old. Tourette Syndrome encompasses so much more than the typical "tics" that are so often connected with the Syndrome. For me, my body always feels busy and the ADHD, OCD and anxiety that comes with Tourette Syndrome make it difficult for me to concentrate, focus and to even relax. Beekeeping allows me that quiet environment, to allow myself the freedom to just be me. When out in the bee yard, there are no distractions, no pressure to move faster and no interruptions. I can move at my own pace, enjoy the fresh air, calm and freedom. My body is allowed to relax. Beekeeping started from an impulse, but it has helped me discover me. So although our beekeeping story is just beginning, we are excited to see where it takes us!