WOOHOO!
I had some lessons in the spring and one solo session, in which I had some short but awesome downwind rides. Then all summer, life got in the way. I spent two weeks at the beach in July, but the conditions were death for beginners: perfectly onshore wind with waves and chop, so I never even got into position for a waterstart, because I couldn't body drag upwind past the waves. Got very frustrated and felt really stupid.
But I've got all next week at Hatteras, with flat water and a few friends to keep me safe. All I need is wind, and the forecast there is up and down. Here's hoping!
-Tim
Edit: Looks like wind won't be a problem, thanks to hurricane Karen. Gulp!