Dave, welcome to our forum. I am also in Canada, 45 km northeast of Vancouver, in British Columbia (you probably knew Vancouver was in my province). You know that your and my weather are very much different. Where are you exactly located? Update the location in your profile, so we all can know your area, please. So nice that you want to begin to keep bees. Just wait until you get the bee fever. You will become so addicted to these beautiful little creatures of nature that it is gonna make your head swim. The more that you learn about bees, the more you will want to learn....and waiting for that day when you can actually get that hands' on experience with your own....well, say no more. Going deep into their secret world is one of the most wonderful and beautiful experiences in our life. You will love to keep bees and will become a great beekeeper one day, something we all aspire to. Stick around. This will be a place where you can ask your questions, tell your stories, tales and experiences, and plain and simply, have some fun!!! Have a wonderful day and a great life, great health wishes to us all. Cindi