Hey Flyswamper. I know there will be a bunch more reply's, but here is my $0.02 for what it is worth. Don't want to sound negative, but the cards are stacked against you. If you have never done this before, there are so many things involved, in this sport/ hobby that are better learned from someone with experience, than on your own. As other people have already said, teaching yourself is not impossible, but from what I have read from others, is difficult. There are many more threads here, that I have read on this subject. I also started off with a sim. and then a trainer with an instructor and buddy box. Without the buddy box and instructor, I would have lost my trainer first go, guaranteed. Another thing is that there is more to this sport/hobby than just the flying. You will meet lots of, how can I say this, interesting, people at a club. I am lucky to have a runway cut in my field at home, but I do most of my flying at the club field. Lots of really good times.

Welcome to the sport/hobby.

P.S. If you do this on your own, we WILL want photos of the remains.