I live in the Chicago area and it's been quite a rough winter for me. I lost two of my four hives. But one hive I have is really unbelievable. This hive made it very strong out of the winter. However it was very light so I had to provide some emergency feeding in March by putting a deep from one of my deadouts on top of it. I had alternating honey and empty frames. When I inspected the hive in April, it was full of bees. Every frame I pulled was full of brood. I have never seen more bees so early. This hive is on a scale and is up over 60 lbs so far this short season. Here is a video of the orientation flights taken yesterday afternoon. As you can see, I have supered with a deep and medium.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou4gz-xRVi0&feature=em-upload_owner
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou4gz-xRVi0&feature=em-upload_owner