I've been flying RC for 20 years now. My daughter wanted to "fly," and her grandmother bought her a Champ trainer. It fell to Dad to build it and figure out how to fly it, then teach her. I did that, but whereas her interests quickly moved elsewhere, mine did not!
I enjoy detailing planes almost as much as flying them. I also have great friends that share the hobby (including flying seaplanes) and that is what ultimately make it worthwhile for me.