WTG Barto!
I have my first rc flights behind me as well, without any trainer.
Well... I actually like very much to build planes and doesn't hurt me, if i have to build one plane several times.
Meaning it is easier to do it with trainer. Was lotsa things to find out (glad i had glue and balsa

) the hard way without one.
Simulators do help, or at least for me they did. My biggest problem was plane built too heavy, 'cause when i finally got it up, i had it under control.
There's been some scratching noises in my shop (can you belive my shop is right in my working/office room with 4 puters, large inkjet + stuff

)lately, so that means maiden flight for my ex-Fournier is near.
I wonder...
..
. nevermind.
GL and have fun.