John my friend - very well done, I am made up for you. A superb post too, thanks
As others have said, the good feeling lasts a lifetime, and is boosted even more when you take your first passenger. It is then that you will feel a real sense of responsibility and realise that all those hours you spent training were worthwhile - you won't have you instructor with you any more
In my test, the instructor done the handling whilst I calculated the route. I suppose however, if he see's that you can put the aircraft in a decent trim, and have relatively relaxed flying, then I suppose you could do the same should you be on your own. Interesting debate though - I do see both sides...
Well, very best wishes to you all - I have seen this thread close a few times and am always made up to see people posting once again. Suppose when you've spent about 2 years of your life doing something, you kind of miss it when it goes (but that's the stella talking)
Take care everyone,
Lee