Well, going on two years now as an official ham, and sure don't regret getting into this hobby.  I'm running an Icom 746 Pro using a G5RV antenna and so far works out pretty well.  I do have an Ameritron 811A amp when needed but since the solar cycle is about to get hot, hopefully I won't.  Right?  Picture taken at LAX back in the 70's.  Me with the beard....