I just picked up the Bold 9700 for Tmobile, I love this phone! It is my first BB and I am still learning the ropes. I am just amazed at the build quality, my brother has the 8900 and the battery door rattles and the keypad does too, but the bold is just so solid. I also love the faux leather back, makes the phone grippy.
Check out the BlackBerry 101 How-To Lecture Series ! This will help you with the basics such as downloading apps, themes, wallpaper, ringtones. It's also a good idea to browse the forums and read as much as possible. Many questions you have are answered there already!