Also...wind was at 18 from 309, but we WERE taking off from runway 31.
Pretty good gust of wind I'd say around 50-100 AGL after takeoff from
left to right that had me pretty scared.

Okay, gusts to FORTY, did you say?

My opinion just changed 180 degrees. You weren't needlessly scared -- you
were properly scared. I've flown in winds like you describe many times, and
it is extremely uncomfortable.

Any CFI that takes a newbie up for a "Discovery Flight" in conditions like
you describe is what we call a "time-builder" -- a whore that is out to pad
his logbook, with no regard for you or your future.

Find another CFI -- pronto -- and go up again on a calm(er) day. You'll be
absolutely astounded at the difference.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"