So I was reading the renegade beekeeper thread, which put me in mind of some of the negativity I got last year. I also wanted to reread the thread as a reminder of what I did and what I was told not to do. This forum is full of knowledgeable people who " know what they like and like what they know". They also, judging by the tone of some posts, don't get out enough. I read and digested the comments, some of which were useful , and did say how I'd get on. Well after that dreadful spring, it was an easy technique that increased my stock, provided a total of 30lbs of honey by September, and after feeding up and treating for varroa has left me 2 strong colonies. What's not to like for a new backyard beekeeper?