Well I finally get to end this thread! Got her back home on Sunday dispite all the ice up in NJ. Thanks to all who helped out in the buying process! (and thanks for putting up with an 11 pg thread!) I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. It feels great to be able to make an informed decision buying my first plane. Couldn't have done it w/o all of your help.
Next stage is to re-do the pannel overlay and some other small cosemetic stuff. I'll be sure to post pics of the process.