RE: Getting started is so dang hard
Check with the local clubs in your area. I'm sure that if you look around you can find a good club with training and reasonable rates. Our club, for example, has cut rates for minors who have insurance ranging from 1/2 price to free and provides a trainer with radio and buddy box. All the trainee needs to pay for is fuel. It's worth a look and if you can't find one, then you're no worse off than you are now.