It should technically begin when extraction begins — so (depending on your machine) when you press the button, lift the lever, etc. Water time on grounds is what you’re tracking.

That said, don’t be afraid to play. Times are just guidelines. Pay attention to what’s happening at the group head. Some of my best pulls have been longer than 30s.

Where should we point them?

Quite happy with my life, thank you. And the bees.

As a local beekeeper, I take offense to your sentiment.