I am A newbie myself. I built my first kit just recently.The LHS is
so so. But at the flying field they are execellent. Sure I have to wait it comes with the territory. I brought my newly built plane to the field didn't tell anyone I had it with me. One of the guys who knew I was building a plane asked me how it was coming along. I told him it was done and ready for it's maiden flight and had it with me. He said bring it in and I filled out the form for the AMA.
Sal and another fella Bob checked out all the construction and radio gear. Satisfied they took it up for me and Sal even had a buddy box for me to use. It flew well though needed minor adjustments. Anyway nobody starts at the top rung of the ladder
you have to work your way up there. Someday I will be there (like I am now with my occupation) until then I will have patients,
keep my eye's, ears open and my mouth full of praise for those
who have accomplished what I am trying to do. Hang in there!