Quote:
Do you believe that in my position you would seek an instructor if only to keep oneself focused? Or would you design your own practice plan and schedule and draw upon the vast amount of guitar instruction materials available on the internet?


I would definitely take the route of lessons by DVD/download accompanied by written TAB. Homespun is one of the best. The instructors are professional musicians in a wide variety of styles.

http://www.homespuntapes.com/

Most local instructors are just guys who can teach you a few songs but can't really give you an organized method of study.

Good luck.