If someone gives you attitude becasue you have an ARF... JUST IGNORE THEM. I'm no big fan of ARFs myself, I've had a few, but I'd never give attitude to someone else about flying an ARF. At this time of year, you really can't get a built plane ready quick enough. If you want to start flying this week, you must get an ARF/RTF. Montague is basically correct, a large percentage of beginners start with an ARF trainer. You'll fit in just fine.