I would buy a ready to fly trainer from one of the reputable manufacturers. This will give you what you need for basic flying experience. In the mean time, buy a kit or two and start building. It sounds like you'll take right to it and you'll learn a little about airplane construction. From there, the possibilities are endless. You can build from plans, etc.

Like the others have said, join a local club. Find warbird and other events in your area and attend. You'll have a blast and learn a lot. One good thing about this hobby is that it has something for everyone. In our club you'll find guys strictly into WW-I scale, WW-2, pattern, 3D, racing, jets, whatever you can think of. There are guys who can barely assemble an ARF and there are others who design and build their own aircraft. Everyone enjoys it just as much.