Anne, thank you for your post. You captured a lot of the things that have attracted me to beekeeping and keep me engaged.
It is like being a student again! That crazy 45 years ago feeling, so much to learn, so little time!
And bugs depending on me to do it at least passably correct.
I had no mentor and no one asked for my bona fides when I started. I have no regrets for taking this path, what a wonderful adventure. 
I credit the people here at Bee-L, Mr. Randy Oliver, Allen Dick and others for getting me through my early days.
We all come to a new enterprise with eyes wide and full of trepidation. 
There is always a winnowing process in any worthwhile endeavour, and beekeeping is no different. Some will thrive, some will fail, and many will muddle through. 
I am glad I do this, and I will continue to study the bees and the books, the seasons and the cycles. It is good for my soul, and I am glad that I found it, however late. 
I slipped through the cracks into this wonderful realm of bees, and I intend to dwell here as long as I may.  
Brian

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