Thanks everyone for all your input!! I live in Nogales, Arizona, which is right on the border with Mexico. I'm somewhat of an oddity around here with my bike riding. There are a few (and I mean very few) men that road bike here but I've never seen any women do it. Needless to say, I get a lot of stares!! Another drawback is that my town doesn't have any bike lanes anywhere on which to bike safely. I've gotten great at riding with cars!! It would be wonderful if someday the city/town would consider cyclists in any future road plans but I don't see that happening when interest in cycling here is so small.

As for El Tour...I think I'm going to start off with the 66 mile ride. I know I'll be able to handle the distance for sure and it'll give me a great insight into the workings of group riding and future bike tours. Lenusik, I'm interested in the Scottsdale tour. Let me know when that is, if you can. That'd be cool to meet you there!
Mtkitchn, let me know if you decide to do El Tour. I'd like to have a TE companion along with me ! We could learn together!
Maillotpois, thanks so much for your insight! Hopefully next year I'll be able to do the whole thing, and you'll be able to join as well!!
Thank you all for your info!! I knew you all would guide a crazy newbie in the right direction!!!