Welcome to the END of free time and disposable income as you knew them.

Sims won't help much without the aid of an instructor, but if you can fly the sim, you will learn very quickly. (If that sounds contradictory, it is. Some people can pick this up fairly quickly). Get an instructor before you buy ANYTHING. He/She will help you get the proper equipment.

Terminology is listed in the RCU glossary, but you will pick it up at the field. I am almost certain there was a glossary, but I don't see it right away. You can ask terminology questions here as well.

Save yourself some hassle and get a good divorce lawyer now.....(just kidding...a joke for your wife). I hope you have a comfy couch.

Welcome to the DARK SIDE...we've been waiting for you.

All kidding aside, this is by far the best hobby God invented. And those of us who stick with it long enough for the REALLY COOL stuff to happen are quite blessed. If you fly A LOT...like every day for a year...you will be able to do amazing things, like things you only see in videos. Your skill level will improve ONLY with stick-time. Sims will help, but actually flying is the only way to practice um....flying.

Good luck and welcome! ....Now give us all your money and smile about it.