Hey, CGRetired,
Just a suggestion on one detail you mentioned...............
If you're going to finger choke the carb, no need to open or close the throttle. You're blocking off all atmospheric pressure with the thumb and that makes the throttle position a moot point. But to add some positive advice.........

Most of our carburated glow engines self prime excellently if we almost close the throttle and just apply an electric starter. Closing the throttle and backing the TX throttle STICK back 2-3 clicks (the throttle sticks almost all have ratchets) virtually sets a "choke" for us. It's a choke that works perfectly with an electric starter. The carb is choked and draws excellently well, AND when the fuel reaches the engine, the engine starts at a very safe speed. With a lot of engines and installations, that setting will also work if you're flipping manually. It won't usually start on the first flip of the first starting attempt of the day, but restarts on the runway and later flights very often are one or two hand flips. That is, if you're one to hand or stick flip them suckers.