I re-upped this past winter. Got my PPL in February 1981 in a snowstorm.
Took 2 flights after that (hey - I was a poor college student), then never
went back.

Fast forward to summer 2002; neighbor joined a club, found out I used to
fly, took me up for a ride. Put me in the left seat. Did some airwork,
found I could still hold altitude, heading, etc.

So I got bit. Started reading up on material, got some current training
material. In the meantime, neighbor re-upped his long-expired CFI
certificate, and we started working towards a BFR. Finding an instructor who
works for an occasional dinner out has it's benefits ;-).

Took about 10 hrs. But this guy is a stickler. Did some x-c's, lots of
emergency work, airspace, ATC, etc.

So, after 22 years, I got current. Like all, still learning, though. Have
made the commitment to maintain currency / proficiency.

Now, contemplating a partnership so that I can fly with easier scheduling
(FBO pretty full-up; have to schedule 1-2 wks in advance for rental).

Welcome back. It's *still* a kick in the pants, IMHO....
Carl

wrote in message
om...
My grandson just turned 15 and has a great interest in aviation, so I
decided to get legal and show him how much fun we could have in a
Piper Cherokee. After not flying for the past 23 years I got my
medical, found a local club with a good instructor and hope to start
flying on my own in the next few weeks.
I was a bit surprised at how rusty I had become after that length of
time even with 350 hours in my old log book. Getting back on the
ground can be VERY exciting.
Has anyone else started flying after many years of inactivity? Any
problems or interesting things you would like to share with me and the
group?
One thing I can say without reservation.........flying a small
aircraft is one of the greatest pleasures that anyone on this earth
can experience!