Beeswax and Honey
You really never know what the barter’s going to be and, despite having been throwing it out there for years, I always feel honoured when people take up the challenge. A father and son spent a delightful couple of hours with me and had been pondering throughout the nature of the barter they would make.
When we got to sealing and polishing their pieces, I got out a lump of raw beeswax to melt onto the hot metal before rubbing it to a shine, with that glorious smell of honey filling the air.
The dad’s eyes lit up.
“I’m a beekeeper and I’m always looking for uses and outlets for the wax. If you give me your address, I’ll send you some.”
I didn’t hold my breath. Several times people have promised to send something, but never have – I’m still waiting for the hand-bound notepad from the bookbinder! But I really don’t mind, it’s all part of the fun, the adventure.
So I was absolutely delighted when quite a while later – later enough that I’d forgotten about it and the summer season of festivals was over – a parcel arrived containing a huge lump of beeswax, a jar of the most delicious Cornish honey and the kindest of notes. What a joy to be facing the autumn with – and I still have (and use) remnants of that wax.
Kate The Wordsmith 