I re-entered rc flying after 20 years of being "away". I assumed my skills would be adequate. Let's see....destroyed a Graupner Tipsy after three abortive flights. Destroyed a Great Planes Lil' Poke in the wind (turned the wrong way....oooppss). Bit the bullet, swallowed my pride and bought a GWS Slow Stick. Flew it for 5 months, successfully. Built a Great Planes Basic Light Trainer (BLT) and flew it for two months. Gained actual "stick time" and improved my skills. Downloaded FMS and, when too windy to fly, practiced, practiced, practiced!! Now I have upgraded power systems on both the Slow Stick and built a new Lil Poke with more power. I am experienced enough to fly (and land safely) in anything up to about 10mph winds. Took almost 8 months. Check out my gallery. IMHO - get a high wing trainer and get in the air!!!!