There have been many reports over the last year about collapsing bee populations. In our backyard, we don't seem to get nearly as many. In fact, in the past, I have had to keep Isabel, our daughter, away from our sage when it is in bloom. The bees were often swarming around it.

This year, we haven't gotten any. I am not sure if the local colony has collapsed like numerous others have in California. Or perhaps it is just coincidence.

Germany has just banned 8 pesticides out of fear of this problem. Our vineyards don't use this pesticide or much of anything since several are organic. That said, I wonder if something else used by the wine industry is contributing to this problem. Bees aren't crucial to grape pollination but they may be beneficial and I would hate to see them go especially since I love almonds...