Honestly, I sort of hope they don't ever return. I, like every other CFI out there, have been more scared, more frustrated more tired as an instructor than I ever imagined. I remember closing up the FBO one night after a night xc, couple of kids were splitting 152 time (probably both logging pic time and neither using a hood) they needed some fuel so I helped them out and started talking to one of them about his future as a pilot. "I've got 245 hours, I'm taking my commercial SEL next week and then my CMEL the week after, and then I'm going to apply to the airlines." It was said with such obvious disdain for flight instructing I honestly took offense to his comment. It was then that I had to stop and realize that as far as being a pilot, would learn far more far quicker than he ever would. Now don't get me wrong, I don't wish a furlough on any one, but that kid is probably now furloughed with 180 hours of PIC time and maybe 1,000 TT. Sometimes taking the more difficult road is more rewarding.

Ok, I think my ride on the soap box is over, now that I sound like a self righteous a-hole! Just a little frustration I've learned as a CFI. Long story short there is no substitute for experience!