Did it. 8.5 hours, just got done, but have my new i7 build from scratch. just wanted to say thanks to those who helped this n00b with decisions and build advice. here is the final build: 
Intel i7 920
asus p6t deluxe
WD 6400 aaks 640mb
evga gtx260 216 core superclocked
bfg 800 watt power
3 x 1 gb corsair xmsr3 ddr3 1333
cooler master rc 590 case
acer 22"
samsung 22x dvd burner
2 extra 120mm fans (top vents)
Saitek Eclipse Keyboard
Vista 64 bit
Intel i7 920
asus p6t deluxe
WD 6400 aaks 640mb
evga gtx260 216 core superclocked
bfg 800 watt power
3 x 1 gb corsair xmsr3 ddr3 1333
cooler master rc 590 case
acer 22"
samsung 22x dvd burner
2 extra 120mm fans (top vents)
Saitek Eclipse Keyboard
Vista 64 bit