Thanks for posting this, Coleus! Excellent summary and history of the Rosary! Bourbon, I'm a recent convert like you (I was formally received into the Church Easter 2004). I started praying the Rosary in Lent 2001. I was Anglican then, and a Catholic friend gave me a Rosary in early 2001. I got curious, visited my local Catholic book store, and bought a couple of books on Mary and the Rosary. After reading them, I thought the Rosary would be a perfect Lenten discipline. I haven't stopped praying it since. The Rosary is a treasure and a great blessing.
Neato. You and I came into the Church at precisely the same moment. And like you, I'm also a convert from the ECUSA.
I wish I had your circumstances. Im a college student, and the distactions are endless. And im on shaky ground as it is! :) (it isnt a catholic university).