balsaBrkr,  Your advice is great.  Tonites flight will be just that.  AFTER thorough pre-flicght, taxi testing.  Then take off rolls, then take-offs....    BY MY SON....

We are taking baby steps in this.    Thank you.</p>

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JETMECH,  Wow, I am excited about rc flying.   But, having been down the path a few times IN OTHER ENDEAVORS, my reliance on others is limited.   Been there done that.   NEVER once did I say anything about RC instructors and you made that assumption.  I applaud you in your dedication to assisting others, but I haven't found that in other avocations I have enjoyed.

Example:  I started racing Outlaw Karts three years ago.  Was assured that I would get all the help I needed.  Didn't happen.  So I taught myself about a few things and have become the go to guy at the track for carburator troubles.  Before three years ago, I did not even own mechanic tools.  Now, I will miss a race in order to help someone else out at the track, especially competitors in my class.</p>

I am not stubborn, just realistic the IN MY EXPERIENCE the best way is for ME to do it.   Ya want it done, ya got to do it yourself.  I believe that you misinterpreted my comments as a slam on the RC world and RC instructors.  Nothing could be further from the truth....   until now.  JETMECH, you don't know me.  You don't know my life experiences.  Yet you condemn my philosophy on life and learning.  You suggest that you experience RC Flying as a social setting.  Good!  I hope you enjoy it and have great social experiences.  But from the tone of YOUR post, it seems that to get along you have to go along.  Sorry, I don't live my life that way.
I march to my drummer.

So having said that,  I guess I'll just enjoy time and fun with my son.  Crash/no crash, who the h#ll cares.

To those who urged and offered sincere advice, thank you.  To those who know it all and "condemn"  my actions or attitude, thank you for reinforcing the fact that there is one in every avocation.

Soured by the reactions, I may not return to this forum.  I just will be an old retired guy having fun, the way I want to have it! </p>