In a message dated 97-04-14 20:00:45 EDT, you write:
 
<< This is a hobby and I enjoy doing the work.  If I were running a business
 my views would be different.  I have the time for the most part, I want to
 save the money.  My 12 year old son also works with me.  He loves spending
 the time with me and the labor is cheap although you have to settle for
 lower quality of work.  The quality of the time spent together is
 immeasurable. >>
 
If there were no other reason to keep bees your comments about the 12 year
old son is enuf to make it all worthwhile.  I've got photos of every one of
 my kids (son & 2 daughters) proudly holding a branch with their first caught
Swarm.  I cherish those events.
 
Might I make a suggestion... as soon as that 12 year old is out of the nest -
find another 12 year old and introduce him/her to the hobby.  The rewards
continue even if it isn't your own kid!!