Congratulations on the PPL. Are you a member of your local PFA strut ? The reason I ask is that it is a great introduction to lower cost, fly for fun, aviating.
I have a share in a Piper Cub, run on a Permit To Fly, under the auspices of the PFA. Just one of the great things about it is the cost per hour; another is (since it is a group owned aeroplane) there is a ready made group of flying partners. I have often shared a flight with a fellow group owner; typically he flies there, I fly back. I guess you could do that with a club 'plane, too.
Sure, an IMC is great - but hey, go have some cheap fun (too) - you deserve it. Happy days...