Minn,

It seems I just felt a bit...'stupid' asking my instructor to maiden another plane for me. I am not too proud to ask for help, in fact I do it too much it seems. But this time I felt it was best to do it myself. I did it when no-one was there and in poor conditions. I did not want any added distractions or .....um.....witnesses.

I have done first flights on all of my foamies...of course. My next maiden will be in better conditions and likely a SIG Mayhem 3-D.

I feel I am almost beyond the 'beginner' stage and moving slowly into the 'dangerous' stage. I have seen over-confidence cause more than one crash...and at least one serious injury.....(TWO lost fingers and the end of an RC hobby).

When exactly does a student/beginner become a proficient flyer? What are the key skills and/or milestones that separate good flyers from perpetual beginners and/or 'weekend' flyers?

I mean, I know I need to work on a lot of things....and I really would like to fly basic IMAC someday, but I feel different about my flying now. There is far less 'mystery'. I am armed with information, some experience and a really good BULL$h!% detector. (There is no shortage of bad advice out there, believe me).

Anyway, I can't wait to go flying again tomorrow.

I CAN STOP ANYTIME I WANT!!! .... (sheesh...who am I kidding?)....pass me a foamie....for the road.