RE: First thermal?
Once you start getting 'into' sailplanes you'll be hooked! I do like many aspects of the hobby- even free flight- which is very challenging. A really great book that will stoke your fires about catching thermals is titled 'Exploring the Monster'- can't remember author. It's a GREAT read! Martin Simons has some great books with 3-views and the history of many types. Well worth the money if you are 'into' scale. Ride that 'Cumy' (cumulus clouds) Highway!