SBD said...thanks for the advice.I am going to have more lessons but thought i might give it a go a few times by myself. The instructor said that I had the hang of it. I think it's the thought of embarrasment that is putting me off at the moment as where we go EVERYONE can see you and I am pretty shy as it is.

Everyone feels that way when they get into something new. Just be honest about your abilities, ask questions, and be safe. If you do that, anybody that gives you a hard time for learning, is just a knob. You'll find most people are really cool. As KIT33R pointed out, your state association will give you a lot of benefits, not the least of which are social events so you can get to know a few people.
Have fun and be safe.