Jim-

JLK's not that far off. Given your fun fly experience, I'm sure you would have no problem with something like a UCD, as long as you had someone standing close by for support. Another good plane that can be had VERY inexpensively (about $90 ARF) is the Hangar 9 Twist 3D. Again, on low rates it is a *****cat. Has the added advantage of an upright engine. The UCD's is inverted and causes some people troubles. The only disadvantage of these planes is that they are lightly built and do not do well in rough landings. The UCD is particularly noted for losing its landing gear.

That said, if you are willing to go with an ARF for the first plane back, any of the sticks would also be a good bet (Hangar 9 Ultra Stik, GP Big Stik).

One other thing that JLK mentioned is worth noting: the popularity of 4 stroke engines. They were just coming on the scene 20 years ago. (like you, I spent about 20 years away from the hobby) Now they have become very popular and easy to use. Like JLK, I bought a Saito for my first plane when I got back into it. They sound so much nicer than a 2 stroke that they are worth the extra money.

Have fun,
Scott