Can't emphasize enough the need for a helmet. I wouldn't ride five feet without one.

1,000 miles? I have 30,000 on my present frame. Of course, every component except the seat post is at least a first generation replacement.

Read up a bit and ask around about a good local bike shop. The most important feature of your bile will be proper fit. Everything else is details and can be fiddled with, replaced, or upgraded. But the proper size frame is forever.