Thanks for your thoughts Sewnoma. I was looking at a Motorola but the reviews at Verizon threw me off a bit.
The last phone I got was through a local franchise. The sales agent was pushing a phone I knew I didn't want. I ended up with a Convoy (my choice). It cost more there than getting it online. Lesson learned. My DH's phone was purchased through Costco where the prices were more competitive. Sometimes you can get Verizon online deals too. I understand if you print them out and take them to a franchise they have to honor it; even if it is not a special in that store.
My SIL has an Apple that she likes, but she doesn't have a lot of experience with the online functions which I will eventually need.
I'll look into the models you suggest. I believe there is a model higher than the Droid X that Verizon isn't showing. Do you know if I got it at Best Buy...let's say...that Verizon would recognize it?