Lister,
Many thanks for your sound advice. I've no expectations on time - just to do my best and enjoy it. My first lesson was fun, mainly checks, taxying and getting used to the controls in flight plus trimming out. The hour went far too fast but now I'm truly hooked and can't wait for the next lesson. In hindsight I'm really glad I read up about the PA38 beforehand otherwise I wouldn't of known what (for example) an 'alt static' was

Ground school is good for waking up those grey cells & getting into a learning routine again.. I'll just take my time and enjoy the ride.
Mike