Wow!!! thanks for the rousing welcome. I was in Sugarland for a course at Schlumberger a few years back and really want to get back for a social visit or one during hunting season. As for the questions:
LittleGun - Once you take the safety and storage courses, get all the licenses, join a pistol club (the whole process is like a never ending colonoscopy) and comply with all the storage and transportation regulations, it's snap gun transfers take about a week, as long as the weapon is not on the prohibited list.
HK_Fiend - My SIG P226 (9mm) is my favorite, so is my S&W K38 and M&P40. I'm a complete tard when I go to a gun show
BeNotAfraid - Our guys and gals in Afghanistan make us all incredibly proud and gratefull for everything they are going through.
I hope to pick up a lot of wise tips and hope to contribute as well. Thanks again.