T - great photos....looks like you had FUN!!!
As far as purchasing your first stick.....rule of thumb for a beginner is to get something that floats you well so you can paddle and catch waves easier then progress over time to smaller sizes to add performance factor if that is your goal. Some surfers have a more cruiser type style especially on long boards but smaller boards allow for more tight maneuvering like snap backs and such.
I think it would help if you tried out several different sizes to see what you feel comfortable on. The one in your pics seems to suit you OK. Only you know if it does or not as everyone has a different feel for what works.
Also - what worked the best for me over the years is when you find a shaper who shapes the type of board that suits your surfing - that's like finding the holy grail. Living in Arizona is not going to help your progression but who knows over time you may wind up moving closer and surfing more. The more you surf the faster you progress and the more you know what board works better for you and the more you swap them out to get better ones. Almost like these Porsches..ha ha.
Well those are my thoughts but I'm sure there are many other Pelicans who can offer their opinions as well.
Cowabunga girl!!!
