hey carl. I too am in the same boat as you are. i am 21 years old, bought a plane about 5 years ago. Just bought my engine and radio, and in the process of getting ready for that first flight that i am optimistic about, even though i have about 15 min. in the air about 4 years ago on a buddy box. anyway I'm new to this site this is my 1ST post and im just glad to see that im not the only one trying to learn by myself. I won't be able to fly for a few more weeks being that i am broke as a joke. and don't quite have everything lined up yet. but anyway keep posting your progress and im pulling for you.