punkmusicfan21: Great stuff! I only browsed your post, but will print it out and read it thoroughly later this evening.
I found this guitar on Craigslist, and would welcome thoughts or opinions. It may have already been sold, but should help me get some feedback on a price range regardless. The listing can be viewed here:
FENDER ACOUSTIC GUITAR
As for electric guitar.. I can't say I'm really drawn to it, at least not initially. I find it very appealing to be able to create music naturally, without the need for amplifiers and cords; and I also suspect I am drawn to acoustic as a result of playing natural/wooden instruments in life. I admittedly do like the ability to take a guitar anywhere and play it, even if it's outdoors or at a friend's place, etc.
I'm excited about giving guitar a serious shot because it's something I genuinely want to do, whereas playing violin/viola was something my parents wanted me to do and felt it would benefit me in life, despite my opposition and frustration at having to wake up early on Saturdays to go to orchestra practice, when everyone else was sitting at home watching cartoons.
I do tend to be a bit streaky in my interests, but providing I don't invest too much in a starter guitar, I don't see myself having anything to lose. I'm also intrigued by reading guitar music, as it appears to be quite different than what I'm used to and currently looks like a foreign language to me.
I really appreciate the replies and recommendations. And please share more, as it's great stuff!