Bricklayer,
Well done!
If you had a hard time finding a proficient instructor and you NEEDED to learn to fly then you did the right thing.
I used to tell people don't pick an instructor by what others recommend or because someone offers to teach you. Spend a little time watching other folks fly. Pick out one that you like their style on the ground and in the air and then ask THEM if they will teach you.
More times then not I bet they will be willing to help you.
Now if you are a member of a club with a formal instruction program and designated instructors then I guess that changes things.
I always smile when I think back to the days I was getting my private license. Some guy came in and wanted the introductory ride. After they came back and the guy left the instructor complained that the guy knew how to fly. Turns out he had built a Volksplane out on his farm and taught himself.
When I asked how that could be done, who had taught him the flying school owner said "Who taught Wilbur and Orville?"
[sm=tongue.gif]
JLK