Yearningtofly,

I'm also just getting ready to take the plunge into learning RC flight. I definitely don't have ANY time on sims, or any planes, only some time with RC trucks(no "rudder" involved on those ).

My only adivce is about the club since you seem to be frustrated with that part of it also. It sounds like you have alot of clubs in your area. It might be great to check all of them out and just talk to the members etc... and get a "feel" for the club and ask about instruction etc... maybe that would help you decide where to join. Iwould guess that every club will have members that are all different, but you may see more of the type of flying you are interested in at one club vs anotherIMHO. Or give the instructor a chance you talked to and learn from him and then you can always get more instruction from other pilots.

Ialso have areas close to me to parkfly (which Iwill eventually get for extra fun), but for me joining a club is also a way to see alot of other planes, and flying styles. Not to mention the social fun of flying with other's. I personally would get bored (just me) if Icould only flew by myself all the time.

Iwish you well in all this. Don't give up!