I started with a Yamaha 6-string in '73. You could slice cheese with it, but I taught myself how to play (I'm left handed as well). Alas, I discovered after 6 months, that I play backwards and upside-down, but I still get a kick out of freaking out othe guitarists..;)

Not much of an expert on Acoustics, but there's any number of places that will sell through the mail, and on line. I get something (or used to) called The Musician's Friend. Catalog of all sorts of musical stuff.

If you're having finger problems, I'd recommend going to a couple of music shops and trying things out first. One thing that might be up your alley is a Fender acoustic with an 'electric' neck. You're looking for an 'action' on the strings that's fairly close to the fretboard (so you don't have to push hard to make chords, etc).  I don't know what the problem is (whether strength, control, or both), but there's no substitute for just picking one up and playing for awhile.

Hope you find out what you're looking for.

I wish I'd said that.. The Staircase Wit

anahl nathrak uth vas betude doth yel dyenvey..;)