11231 E Amfay Dr Palmer, Alaska 99645

The concept of the Apiary evolved over nearly half a lifetime but it wasn’t fully recognized until a series of mystical synchronicities surrounding B’s or Bees. Let us explain…

The Brunnhoelzl family home was built in 1978, by Harry Brunnhoelzl Jr. and his wife Barbara, and was home to two generations of Brunnhoelzls. Chris and Nickie took over the house in 1998. Extensive renovations ensued over the course of many years. Their kids Bailey, Brooke and Braden all being born and raised here said the home was unique enough that it deserved a name. Recognizing that the 3 B’s were raised here along with some architectural elements that resemble honeycomb the home was christened The Apiary which is a structure that houses beehives. Since that time, Chris and Nickie have been blessed by synchronicities, sometimes known as G-d winks, surrounding bees. The bees showing up in our lives are Green Bees to be specific. These bees initially showed up in a dream, in a meditation, then in handicrafts, in song and in real life! Some apiarists may be familiar with the acronym “What you raise green bees?” The answer to that is yes we do raise green bees! Our beautiful Queen in our first hive has a green paint dot on her back.

The idea of the Apiary as a retreat center is that a group of people will gather here, following a teacher, a guide or a knowledge bearer. They will collect, gather, transform and disperse just as all energy does in its natural state. This natural phenomenon can be observed in something as small as a beehive with its foraging, production of comb and honey or as big as a tropical storm that becomes a hurricane transforming everything in its path.

We have found that life can be lived with greater ease when we honor the transient nature of energy, and the impermanence of all things which can result in a peaceful transfiguration of the soul.

While the home is not being used for retreats we extend our hospitality to travelers to stay in our warm and inviting home while we stay next door at the Farm. We were initially inspired to be innkeepers by the Old Testament story of Abraham and Sarah’s Tent but ultimately it is the beautiful union by this husband and wife that continues to inspire us for “Abraham and Sarah loved out of faith and they walked that path of faith to reach their ultimate calling.” If you care to read more about the uplifting Oneness of Abraham and Sarah check out this great article by Aliyah Jacobs.