Checklist,

Everyone thinks this is stupid, but I think its a great idea for a newbie.

Sit down and write out a 2 part checklist. Part 1 is "take to the field", heck, just last week I forgot a large flat bladed screwdriver which I needed for a slight adjustment to the nose gear.

Part 2 is a Pre-flight checklist (dash 1). Going through a checklist should calm you because you have specific tasks AND you can be fairly sure you haven't missed anything.

Finally, keep in mind, its not a contest. If you're having fun then it doesn't matter if you don't get to take-offs and landings for a few sessions (not flights).

Tim