When I was looking around I found there were handlebars that came all the way to your sides and every variation in between. I have an lbs in Jefferson City that has a lot of retro bike stuff and I just went in and looked and compared to ones they had on their bikes. The ones on my Bianchi came out of a used bin. $5. Could be something to do while you wait! Check out the different bars people have. On this mixte, I'm keeping the drops. I find them the most comfortable now.

To walk you through everything, I find that DebW is invaluable. You just have to post on the bike maintenance forum. I also purchased bicycling magazine's book Bicycle Maintenance and Repair by Todd Downs . The Blue Book (by Park Tool) is suppose to be good also. Both available at Amazon and you can look at reviews. You don't want ME talking you through it. I know just enough to be dangerous now.

(But I can internet shop with the best of them!)