Sarge-

I'd take Bhole up on his offer. Go spend a day with him and see how much you can learn. If you're not ready to solo, meet up with him again. Take a gallon of fuel to thank him for his trouble. I don't think it will take you to long to get the hang of it so you can fly on your own. These bozos you are flying with are no help at all. I tried to teach myself with disastrous results. I totaled 3 spads trying to teach myself. Since I got instruction, I haven't had any crashes that caused significant damage (sound of wood knocking).

You've gone through a lot to get this plane. No one wants to see it wrecked because you can't find a good instructor. If I lived within 200 miles of you, I'd come help you myself.

-Scott