Lister,
Good luck on the skills test.
You are correct, the simulator does help. I find that an hour or to on MS flight sim at home really helps get back into instrument flying before going up to practise for real.
I haven't tried using it for VFR but as I am lucky enough to fly regularly it has not been necessary. I'm sure when you get your hands on the Cub you'll fly regularly even in the winter. You do get quite a lot of very cold but gin clear blue skies days in winter..great flying
Again, good luck.. we'll expect a special post giving us all the details.
ZA / DJ
ps couldn't you get Stik to take you up. you could practise some really steep turns etc!!