bb - lots of great advice about your party and travels already, so i'll show some restraint (it's rare, so enjoy).
one thing i will mention, though, is that there's lots written about character development. jandrall is a good place to start (i think it's where a lot of players get their earliest tips). there's also been stuff written at this board (check out scottg's beginner's reference
http://www.ironworksforum.com/ubb/no...;f=15;t=003356 ) and also check out the atlus7 postings for some different ideas (
http://robincollins.net/forums/index...60d&act=SF&f=5 ).
with so much to choose from, i suggest read a bit and try some ideas on for size. no advice written above is right for everybody, but you're bound to find some things you like. see what works for you and what doesnt, and dont be afraid to make some real stinker parties. we've all been there and it's half the fun.
the turning point is when you realise the character classes and races, and the build strategies, that work best for your style - the best way for you to have fun.
then comes the other half of the fun - tearing that all apart and learning all over. this is where you start tweaking the builds further, and trying different party combinations, and trying new classes, or old classes in different ways.
so dig in. we'll be here to compare ideas and provide advice if you need it. good luck!