Welcome, dj. Seems like we have something in common. I, too, am a new forum member from the Lake Charles area. I, too, am just totally overwhelmed by the amount of information here. So many vendors, so many different types of hardware and liquids. Seems like the first thing I learned here is how much I don't know about the world of vaping.
Can't really make any recommendations at this time as I am still too new to it all and learning what I like. Only bought from one vendor I discovered herein so far. Got an eGo-C kit because that kind has a linger battery life than the smaller KR-808D that I started with. Problem with it is the doggone tank leaks and a lot of fluid gets wasted. Got to contact the supplier and see if he has any suggestions.