CG-
Thanks for all that (too long to quote). This is so exciting! I just found out that there is a local club AND a club where I will most likely be interning this summer, so I plan on flying lessons at least once a week. Practicing the "dead stick" maneuvers sounds like a lot of fun, and I imagine that, while getting a dead stick is a royal pain, safely landing the plane must feel great.

I really can't wait to get a plane, and I really appreciate everyone's input. I look forward to the day when I have the experience to regurgitate all this to another newbie.

Thanks everyone.