Spring hive inspection with TJ

On Saturday, TJ issued an invitation irresistible to any new beekeeper: a hands-on demo of his spring hive inspection.
My first hive opening, it was magic. Check out some annotated photos from the inspection and a slideshow version below

Dear neighbors

Here’s the letter I left my neighbors last night regarding my upcoming insect invasion:
Dearest neighbor!
I’m thinking of inviting 10,000 of the world’s best pollinators to live in my backyard this summer. They’re quiet, docile, and oh, did I mention they produce honey?
I’d like to start a beehive. But before I do, let’s talk.
Do you have [...]