Hi PFLs
Can happen to us all. Main thing is you stuck to rule #1! (dont hit anyone!)
We live and learn. You are obviously happy to learn and that is a great asset.
No doubt some will give you some elaborate answers on how to work it out just pick those that may work and give them a go.
I just put the VFR plate on my lap orientate it so that it will show the aerodrome the way it will look when I approach it. Identify the active runway and then run your finger from your current position/ direction over the paper the way in which you want to join and then via the circuit to the numbers.
You write:
He took it all more calmly than I would have done
And learn from this that one day someone will cheese you off. If you are calm it is all the more impressive and you give the other poor blighter the chance to learn something too!
FD