Shane -
I've got two hives that I started in May. They seem to be thriving. I don't know the first thing about it, so I'm not really the guy to be giving lessons about bee keeping. I just jumped in, head first.
Nevertheless, if you, or anyone wants to come look at some hives, we can sure pull the lid off and watch the busy little rascals.
Already got my first (small) batch of honey!! Dee-lish!