sashalil:
Thanks for the response. do you think the Arduino Fio board would be a good choice since it has wireless capability?
No, start with a Uno. As you gain experience, skills, and knowledge you can then branch out to other more complex boards. You will find if you really enjoy learning and using a arduino board you will not be satisfied with owning just one type of board, so don't think your first board choice has to be your last and only board purchasing decision.
Lefty