Since you are posting on the Web, I would assume you have access to a computer somewhat regularly.

A lot has happened in technology in 17 years. Ask your LHS or club about a computer flight simular. I jumped into RC airplane flying for my first time late last summer. After a short introduction with a buddy box with RC flying, I went and got myself an RC flight simular to play around with. After a few instructor flights and combination of the simulator, I did my first solo takeoff/landing by late August/early September of last year.

The simulator isn't a replacement for an instructor but it really will help you with control orientation and allows you try things without risk of losing the plane.