Here we go, January!

What Is Your Offering to Yourself and the Community?

On January 1st, 25 of us gathered at Rockwood Park to simply walk through the woods. We spent two hours immersed in nature—some might call it Forest Bathing, Forest Therapy, or just time outside. But it was also about community, fellowship, and exchanging energy—all essential to our well-being, individually and collectively.

We know that nature heals. The medical world confirms it: spending time in natural settings can help lower blood pressure, ease anxiety and depression, and spark creativity. Whether it’s the feel of crisp air on our skin, the smell of trees, or the sights and sounds of wildlife, being outdoors matters—it restores us.

But this walk wasn’t just about exercise or physical benefits. It was about reconnecting—with nature, with others, and with ourselves.

Together, we shared our intentions and offerings aloud and silently. We had singing, prayer, and poetry. We hugged, wept, laughed, embraced trees, and even cheered on a group of runners by forming a “spirit tunnel”- twice!

It all felt perfectly aligned, as if we were meant to be in that space, together, at that time.

As I reflect on that day, I’m deeply grateful for the power of connection. It reminded me that being in community—whether through big gestures or small moments—is transformative.

As we step into this new year, I invite you to pause and reflect:

• What will you offer yourself this year?

• What will you offer the community?

When we prioritize care—both self-care and community care—we create a ripple effect of growth, connection, and strength. It’s these acts, big or small, that help us navigate whatever the year holds.

Let’s support each other through shared wisdom, collaboration, and kindness. Together, we can create something beautiful.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—what’s your offering?

Warmly,

Hollee

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Hey Friends 🐝

I’m so excited to share my Honey Bees and Me course, and registration has kicked off this month!

This self-paced course offers six engaging modules packed with everything you need to know about honeybees and their vital role in our world.

Whether you're curious about beekeeping, considering starting your own hive, or just want to support pollinators, this course is for you.

You’ll explore the culture and history of beekeeping, learn about essential tools and techniques, and discover how to care for bees responsibly.

Plus, there’s an optional visit to an active hive where you can experience the magic of honeybees up close!

Don’t wait—registration closes January 15th.

Click the link below to register today and be part of this incredible journey!

Honey Tasting and Book Reading

Our first honey tasting of the year will be happening at Maymont’s nature center and is just around the corner 🐝📚

Join us on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 2–4 PM at the Robins Nature Center at Maymont.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

•A live reading of City Bees by Dr. Hollee Freeman, following the bees’ journey through Richmond.

•A honey tasting where you’ll savor unique flavors and uncover what makes each one special.

•Fun science activities and meaningful conversations about pollinators, beekeeping, and why they matter to our world.

This family-friendly event is free and open to the public (donations accepted.)

📍 Robins Nature Center, Maymont

2201 Shields Lake Dr, Richmond, VA 23220

🗓️ Saturday, January 25, 2025 | 2–4 PM

Visit www.holleefreeman.com/events to register and secure your spot.

Kemet & the Ecosystem of Bees:

Honoring Bees, Community, and the Spirit of Nia

This year’s Capital City Kwanzaa Festival was truly a powerful and meaningful celebration of the principle of Nia (purpose), and I’m honored to have been part of it!

Hosted by the dedicated Omilade (Janine) Bell, founder of the Elegba Folklore Society, the event brought our community together in a profound way, and I am deeply grateful for her commitment to preserving and sharing cultural traditions.

Leading the session, Kemet & the Ecosystem of Bees, I had the opportunity to explore the cultural and historical significance of bees and their connection to agriculture, mindfulness, and collective well-being. It was inspiring to see how engaged everyone was as we drew parallels between the ecosystem of bees and our capacity to work together to build healthier, more connected communities.

The processional was especially moving—a beautiful, unifying moment that reminded us all of our shared purpose and collective strength.

Let’s carry the spirit of Nia into everything we do!

Follow the Hollee Freeman Foundation on our social media platforms for more content!

Vision Boarding: Starting the New Year with Reflection

What a beautiful way to kick off the new year! We gathered to align our visions, reflect on our goals, and embrace the importance of rest—all to the backdrop of a soulful soundtrack.

The affirmation cards were a highlight, as always!

Each participant crafted a personal affirmation and shared one with someone else, spreading encouragement and positivity to begin the year.

We’ll continue to check in quarterly to support each other’s growth and balance. Here’s to a year of purpose, progress, and peace.

#SoGoodSoulGood

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City Bees takes readers on an exciting journey through historical and cultural landmarks in Richmond while learning all about honeybees. From the vibrant streets of Jackson Ward to the peaceful beauty of Maymont, every stop offers a chance to explore Richmond’s history and discover the amazing world of bees.

It connects the science of beekeeping with Richmond’s history, making it a fun and educational read for kids and families. You’ll learn how bees help the environment, their role in cities, and the big impact they have on our world.

Whether you’re curious about bees or want a new way to explore Richmond, City Bees is a fun and exciting adventure for everyone!

Get your copy today and join the adventure—there’s so much to explore in Richmond! 🐝✨

The Bee Happy Nature Journal is your invitation to slow down and connect with the natural world.

This beautifully designed journal is the perfect companion for kids and adults alike, inspiring you to slow down, connect with nature, and unleash your creativity through writing and drawing. Inside, you’ll discover thoughtful prompts and gentle guidance that encourage you to observe the world around you with fresh eyes.

With plenty of space for sketches, notes, and reflections, it’s more than just a journal—it’s a keepsake that celebrates your personal journey with nature.

Whether you’re sitting in your backyard, hiking a trail, or simply enjoying a sunny day, this journal will help you document every inspiring moment.

First Day Hikes: Memories, Intentions, and Why We Walk

2020 marked my 6th annual First Day Hike here in Richmond. As always, these walks stir up vivid memories of my First Day Hikes in Boston, where the experience was often an entirely different adventure. Picture this: snowsuits, boots, snowshoes, poles, and even dogs outfitted for the icy trek. It was usually freezing, and more often than not, snowing.

As I wandered Belle Isle on January 1st, 2020, I felt that familiar mix of happiness and wistfulness. Standing at “Bubba’s Bench” (yes, it’s a real spot with a plaque), I was transported back in time where the cares of the world didn’t bother me as much, where community was evident and intact and where all I had to focus on was navigating the snow.

Walking past Hollywood, Riverview, and Mount Calvary Cemeteries here in Richmond, I thought of birthdays spent climbing to the top of the Blue Hills and swimming in Houghton’s Pond in Boston. Later, as I cast my intentions into the James River beneath the railroad trestle, I remembered floating at Ellen’s house in Menemsha on Martha’s Vineyard and the time I jumped off the Jaws Bridge in Oak Bluffs.

Back on the trail in Richmond, I watched Angela cross the “swinging bridge,” and an overwhelming sense of pride and joy swept over me. In that moment, I had to pause. The tears came again—not of sadness, but of gratitude. Gratitude for the life I’ve created here in my hometown. Gratitude for the people with whom I’m connected, and for the way these hikes, these moments, remind me of why I’m here in this place on this Earth.

First Day Hikes are about more than just the steps we take. They’re about the memories we carry, the intentions we set, and the connections we nurture—past, present, and future.

Here’s to walking, reminiscing, and building new memories together.

Warmly,

Hollee

Creating Your Own Sanctuary

In my CreativeMornings RVA talk, I shared the many ways I create sanctuary in my life—spaces where I feel grounded, inspired, and at peace.

Whether through storytelling, beekeeping, or nurturing connections, I’ve discovered how personal sanctuaries can help us navigate the world with intention and joy.

Take a moment to explore these ideas and see how they might inspire your own sanctuary. Watch the video of my talk to learn more and reflect on what sanctuary means to you!

Honey Bees and Me: A Self-Paced Course

Check out this video visit to my apiary! 🐝

Join me this January for Honey Bees and Me, a six-module, self-paced course where you’ll explore the amazing world of honeybees and their crucial role in our ecosystem.

You’ll learn about the culture and history of beekeeping, essential tools and equipment, and how to care for bees responsibly. Plus, there’s an option to visit an active hive for a hands-on experience!

🗓️ Registration Deadline: January 15th