Ken, hey, you know what, I think that when people first start beekeeping that it is a good idea to look in the hives alot. I think that it is more important that you really get to know what is going on in your hives, so you can understand this wonderful world better. If you don't go in there and look around alot, then you can't tell first hand what is going on. REading is great, but you need to see what is up. My first year of beekeeping I went in the hives all the time. My mentor told me that it was more important to look in the hives lots, the bees will do OK regardless. Of course, letting the bees do their thing is important too, but us as the caregivers really need to know.
My opinion, for all it is worth, go into your hives lots, get to know them up close and personal, they will be OK. Of course, they are slightly set back (and I mean slightly) every time a beekeeper noses into their home, but you need to know them well. Go in as much as you want, Ken, they will be fine. Others may disagree, but that is my story, and I'm stickin' to it. Know your bees. Love your life you're livin', yeah, the fascinating world of our dear little girls (and some big boys too), the honeybees!!!!! Cindi