After doing a fair amount of research, some pixel peeping, and taking to heart what's been advised here, I've decided on the 77 mm Ltd as my first lens. I want the pixie dust! I may miss out on the wider angle, but this lens will fill my needs perfectly until i'm able to afford a 21 mm Ltd for wider shots. I can always stitch landscapes if/when needed . This seems to be a perfect portrait lens, it'll shine for candid shots, and I can get some great nature shots this Autumn as well. I don't shoot indoors that much so this is not a concern. While I also like architecture, it's not top priority. That can come later ... much later for that matter.
I shot Canon for a few years. I had a 50 mm prime, an 18-135 mm, and a 35 mm prime. The only time I used the zoom was for wider landscape shots and when I needed a little extra reach. The 50 mm rarely left my camera, however. Even so, I always felt like I needed a little extra reach when taking portrait and candid shots. The 50 mm was too short, which is one reason the 77 mm is so appealing. I would like a lens comparable to my old 35 mm also ... like the 31 LTD or the 18-35 f/1.8 Sigma, but again, not top priority. It can come later. First things first! Lens selection, then camera body, then next lens in line, which will either be a longer zoom upwards of 200-250mm or a wide angle like the 21 mm Ltd. this will be determined by my budget come football season. If I can afford a zoom, then a zoom it will be. If not, I'll have to wait till next season and I'll purchase the 21 mm Ltd instead. Baby steps, right?
Now it's time to decide on a camera body. K-5 II/s or the K-3. One body and one lens to start me off. I'll work my way up to more gear as my budget allows. I can get the 77 Ltd for around $1000, which leaves me between $600 to $1000 for the camera body. Although I can get the K-3 and stay within
actual budget, I'd love to see some images taken with both the K-5 II/s and the K-3 using the 77mm ltd lens. It will help me make a more informed decision. If the images taken with the K-3 are significantly better, then I can justify buying the K-3. If not, then I'm certain the K-5 II/s will work just as well for my needs ... Including a year (maybe two) of high school football. Anyone care to share a few images for comparison purposes?
I appreciate everyone contributing to this thread. You have all been extremely helpful! Thank you for that, eh?