SkierChickie...all I can say is, WOW, thanks so much for that wonderful feedback! Yeah, my brain hurts because I need to learn, but that type of info is exactly what I need!

Local sporting goods shops service help, not so good. I will look on line, and really need to take a sebatical to one of those shops. We are similiar in height. Im 5'5" and normally average about 118# give or take a few #s up or down. Not too far from MI actually, so lots of people around here travel into your state for the skiing. One of my GFs is a downhill girl, but they are avid Vail people. Not too much schooling on the xc skiing from her. I know there are clubs you can join too I've heard of, just like the cycling.

OK, don't know if you will find this post again or not...you got me covered on what to look for on the skiis, what say ye about what to wear? Thanks!