A very nice post indeed. And you're very welcome Shakes!
This is a great encouragement for all the newbies out there.
And for you newbies... As Shakes said, your experiences may vary, but this just goes to show that when learning is done properly (IE, Good Trainer plane, Club, Instructor, Sim) you can advance at a very rapid pace (Providing your wallet can keep up with you!

)