Early in the post you mentioned your need to know what the different stitches look like.
This is a good link that will help you I think.
http://www.woolcrafting.com/crochet-stitches.html
The photos in this one are very good. They are bright and clear.
http://crochet.about.com/od/crochets...t_Stitches.htm
I have a book to look at because I can't remember all the abbreciations. Maybe some of your older magazines have the crochet stitches names and photo as well. Some of mine do.
Good luck. I am happy you have such good help. I think the people on the Quilting Board are awesome