Most of the tutorials and tips I`ve got have been through the monthly magazines I buy Karen,been having them for nearly 4 years now
Never bought any of those books but you should def check them out,some kind of classes if there were such a thing near you would be great too...I agree with what you said,it`s much easier if someone is physically there to hold your hand and guide you through it
Check those books out though at the very least.