OK, so with enough time the answer finally came to me. Yes, my bacteria is growing, but since I bought the LR version, I can't see it very much, but I can definitely smell it. I was at the grocery store and saw some fresh Limburger out... I could smell through the foil and parchment wrap that the "smell" was the same as my muenster, which I believe also uses b linens. I think that since I know the bacteria is working, but not very bright, I will rub the rind on the next washing with some annato to make it darker... then follow the directions for waxing in a few days. I'm so glad to learn this batch is NOT a bust.