It is that time of the year when we need to keep an eye on our apiary. Although the hives are currently empty, critters coming out of hibernation are hungry and looking for food. We don’t want them damaging our hives like the raccoons and bear have done previous years. However, I can’t do everything myself, so I asked Asa to help guard them. Big mistake. Worst yet, exactly 3 years to the day, Asa pulled the same trick on me!

Chuck Billy: Asa, do you know why I called this meeting today?

Asa: Nope.

Chuck Billy: I know you had a good time celebrating St. Patrick’s Day yesterday. However, that does not give you an excuse to avoid your responsibilities today.

Asa: But I didn’t avoid my responsibilities. I hired a substitute to do it for me!

Chuck Billy: If I wanted our neighbor Sparkles to do it, I would have hired him myself!

Asa: But…he did a good job!

Chuck Billy: I do agree, Sparkles was more attentive than you, that’s for sure.

Asa: Hey, all you told me was never to subcontract with the neighbor’s cat again like I did in 2019.

Chuck Billy: This is also true. However, Dad has since paid Sparkles in treats for his work, and helped him to get home safely. Now will you please get out there and do your apiary patrol shift!