a butterbee

Dear Readers,

A "Butterbee" isn't a real creature. You didn't miss a lesson on that in middle school biology class, in case you were wondering! 

Here's the story. When I was little, my dad told me a bedtime tale about a cabin in the woods, where I lived with a butterfly named Butterbee. We would wake up to a sun-soaked morning, eat delicious muffins, and wander outside, exploring pathways and discovering mushrooms. Sometimes we got lost and fireflies led us home, or we met other woodland creatures along the way.

I loved Butterbee. My Grandma got me a necklace with a butterfly charm on it at one point, and somehow I still have it and wear it often. I also still picture the cabin and my butterfly friend when I have trouble sleeping, and it always helps.

Years later, I started this farm business, and made a list of farm names: Green Sage Farm, Wildflower Farm... and then Butterbee popped into my head. I asked my dad what he thought of naming the farm after his creation. His face lit up. And so, Butterbee Farm was born.

There is, of course, more to the story... butterflies have always been my symbol of truth and purpose. I didn't come to farming easily, and like everyone, I have demons that still emerge to surprise me. But I've arrived at a place of synergy. So naming the farm after Butterbee was just right.

There's a story to every farmer, every florist, every business owner, and every one of us. Isn't that such a precious thing about life?

I wish you all a thoughtful Monday. And, special thanks to Jin Zhang, who photographed the farm yesterday with such delight that I had to write this post featuring her photos. She asked if she could take a picture of my butterfly necklace, perhaps sensing it was something special to me.  Thank you, Jin! Her Instagram handle is is jinjin2000, if you want to see more of her gorgeous work!

Laura Beth