Upcoming classes/events:

"Gathering Sun Light"

April 28&29, 2012
Saturday 10am – 5 pm
Sunday 10am - 4pm

The second weekend will be a continuation of our study of the bees. The middle of spring will give us ample time of interaction with the bees. We will continue our study of various texts and have the opportunity to deepen our understanding of the “bien”. Additional topics will be the Demeter standards for apiculture and beyond; conscious apiculture; the concept of “ensoulment” of the landscape through the bien; Health and the bien II; contemplation, meditation & consciousness studies; creating Honey bee sanctuaries II; project presentations; individual projects for next weekend; individual home study.

The “Bien”, the life line of the biosphere

July 14&15, 2012
Saturday 10am – 5 pm
Sunday 10am - 4pm

The third weekend will be a continuation of our study of the bees, and it will focus on meeting the bees on a soul level. Most of the topics of the previous weekends will resurface in a new light. In addition to Health and the bien III & creating Honey bee sanctuaries III, we will include geomantic dimensions of apiculture. Through contemplation, meditation & consciousness studies, we will work with our range of perception and other ways of bee communication. How can the bien be a source for hope and inspiration in a world of transition? Vision and outlook.

The bee gives herself completely to the wellbeing of the oneness of the bee colony. Her physical existence is completely devoted to the prosperity and survival of the “Bien” (oneness of the bee colony). Apiculture can become a spiritual path, a journey into the great fullness of life, and it can deepen our personal life. The “Bien” can be a kind of apitherapy for the soul. To touch them on that level and to be touched by them will show a new way of being with bees and a new way of being in this world.

The fee for the entire course is $450.00 or $175.00 for individual weekends. Some scholarships/work exchange will be available. A bag lunch is available for an additional fee for Saturday & Sunday (needs to be ordered at least 7 days before each weekend). Please contact Barbara for a list of Hotels and B&B's.

Tours of The Melissa Garden

Garden Tour Date schedule for 2012:

May 11, Friday

June 15, Friday

July 13, Friday

August (TBA)

September 7, Friday

October 5, Friday

Information about tours:

There is a charge of $20 per person. We have a group rate of 8 or more. Please ask.

Tours begin promptly at 10:30 and end at noon. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early for tea and snacks.

There are picnic tables under the oaks so feel free to bring your lunch.

Cameras are OK. Be sure to bring a notebook.

As soon as you are registered, you will be sent a map to The Melissa Garden. The address and directions are NOT on the website as this is a private residence.

Sun hats and walking shoes are a good idea.

Please keep cell phones turned off and refrain from wearing scented products

Fee: $20. No refunds 48 hours before all classes and tours.

Previous Classes

List of previous classes

Work Exchange

The Melissa Garden offers limited work exchange program. Please inquire about work exchange and discount opportunities by sending an email to queenbee@themelissagarden.com or by phone, (707) 433-2114.