I got my license almost 3 years ago after years of tinkering and working in the electronics (analogue and digital) arena.  My dad was a ham when he was a teenager but was no longer active while I was growing up.  He did, however, help me along with my interest in electronics and now kick myself for not getting involved more in the hobby sooner.

Currently run a Yaesu FT-847 into a Hustler vertical 5 feet above ground with a steel railing as a groundplane.  Run a tuner when too lazy to re-adjust the whip length and a Yaesu FL-2100Z linear when required (only to 250W input until I get my advanced).

Christopher and YL Wendy

Cheers.
Christopher Netherton
VA3NTH