Mkerr,

The first thing I bought was a membership to the AMA and became a member of a local club. The benefits far outwiegh the cost. If you've done that already, the next step is to find yourself a trainer to fly (both the person and the plane). My club has a buddy box system and several great folks who are excellent trainers. I spent some time on a sim before tackling the real thing and there are some differences but the main idea is there. I didn't try landing for several flights (let the trainer do that) but while flying around, Bob (my trainer) kept telling me that I was "boring", meaning he didn't have to take the controls back from me. I take that as a compliment.

My first plane was a SIG Kadet Senior. Great flying plane. It's big but it's stable as an anvil. Great plane to learn on. Tower hobbies has the ARF for around 200 dollars and it's well worth it. i bought mine used but got all the radio equipment with it and a Saito 50 engine. Pretty much turn key. I still have it and fly it quite often. The Senior would be my vote for one of the best first airplanes. IMHO.

Andy