This is my second year and right now I have 2 hives situated on a friends property up the block from me.
I have had many challenges this second year. I started my beekeeping last year with only 1 hive, which went into winter very, very strong. So strong that in fact it swarmed in March. Before it swarmed, I was able to split it into another hive. That new split took off so strong and I actually got 18 llbs of honey from it. My original hive was doing great, but all of a sudden got very sick and almost died from a disease called deformed wing virus. (due to varroa mites being to high) Well, now it has come back very strong, but never made any honey for itself so I was forced to start feeding it sugar syrup for about 10 days.
Now things are looking good for my 2 hives and I pray things continue.
As you can see, this hobby can be extremely challenging and you really have to commit to helping the bees no matter what mood you are in. I have had to drag myself up to visit the bees some days when I felt very tired. (my problem is the supers are to heavy for me and although I watch when I lift them and know the proper way, I always end up with a sore back afterwards)
Stay in touch and if you want me to come look at your bees, I will be happy to help you. I am also a new beekeeper, but have learned so much this year. Sometimes 2 heads are better than one.
Sincerely,
Annette