I appreciate everyone's input. You've created an
informative thread that anyone interested in this
topic could benefit from. My take-away from it
is:

1. If I'm able to purchase a plane in the next couple
of years, then an IFR endorsement will be necessary
to satisfy travel requirements, and really get the
best value out of my certificate. Otherwise, you're
going to spend a lot of time waiting.

2. Although it's admirable and a challenge to fly "old-school"
with analogue gauges, paper charts, CP-R, and use
solely VOR and basic NAVCOM, it's only sensible
if possible, to carry the best glass EFIS and AHRS
available, including of course ADS-B weather.
I described somewhat this post:
https://groups.google.com/forum/#!to...ng/Oy5aJPeEfvw

3. While I know it's quite a challenge, the only way to
really know what it's like is to get out there and
experience it first hand. I believe a lot of people
think it's easier than it really it. Let's just
assume the opposite.

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