Beekeeping Decisions

There is so much to consider. Getting set up can be quite an expensive undertaking. Not that I mind that so much. But paying over $100 for bees, another $100 for a bee suit, and at least $100 for a hive, only to have the bees die or run off? I don't think I want to risk that right now. I am now thinking about building my own top bar hive and somehow capturing a swarm or finding another beekeeper who will part with a nuc. I'd love to find some good ol' hardy PacNW bees who need a loving home. I'm going to build the hive and then be patient until I am presented with an opportunity to host some bees.