Writing on these formums is really an act of trust, isn't it? We really know o little about the people we send our thoughts out to: we don't see what kind cars each other drives, or homes, not to mention other subtle indicators of income or class.

I think I was also wondering how a bee-keeping article by a staff writer of this magazine would sit with the ordinary beekeeper. So far, I have not a met a single gentleman or "gentlewoman" beekeeper.

Here's another reading recommendation: a slim novel called "The Final Solution" by MIchael Chabon. The protagonist is a very old, retired sleuth, who comes out of his private isolated world- which includes beekeeping- to solve one final case. You may recognize the book title as one of the last Sherlock Holmes story titles. There's a description there of him filling his briar pipe with a particularly noxious dark smokey tobacco, and exhaling into the hive to quiet the bees. It is priceless.Lots of good bee obervations, too, as literary and symbolic devices- I thought it was just neat to see bees "talked" about in a different perspective.

I feel the same way about this little thread, and other occasional ones: beekeeping as a spiritual experience.

So, Tonybeeguy, thanks for continuing to check in with us new 'uns, and giving me a chance to update you on this little love affair.