RE: Complete newb - very frustrated!
Congratulations!
If you are self taught, keep doing what works for you, but like bingo says you will eventually want to learn how to fly the plane as it heads back at you.
A simple trick, kind of like learning how to back up a car with a trailer. You know how they say to turn the wheel towards the mirror that has the trailer in view? Same idea with flying. It is easy enough to remember that to level out the plane as it flys towards you, just move the stick in the direction of the low wing panel. After being given this advice I was flying a 6 foot spanglider on my own and the LHS owner was able to go back to the cash register.
Practice flying big laps and mentally rehearsing your stick movements before the need arises to turn. Pick a cruising speed that the plane is happy with, but no more than that.
Again, very good show dude.