Go gt 'em Brian! Actually my experience with bees was very interesting, and fun. But alas, one too many part time pursuits, which I dropped after a couple of years, simply because I didn't have the time to do it right. Not that bees require all that much time or care.
Don't be embarrassed about the "Dummies" book(s). They are always written by top experts on the subject, and usually are the best introuction one can find to any topic. I always tell people who are just starting out on any new subject that is somewhat complex, to "go get the Dummies book" on the topic.
Now if you had to start with the "... For Total Idiots" book, you might feel somewhat justified in your embarrassment. [img]/forums/images/icons/grin.gif[/img]