learn how to play the acoustic guitar

I’ve been playing consistently for a week and I’m starting to see some small progress. I’ve learned a few chords, and I’m trying to get my strumming to be more fluid and less choppy. Overall, it’s a fun process.

I just got my very first acoustic guitar and am learning to play using a combination of DVD and instruction book. The whole process is fun! The guitar is a Costco bargin classical guitar less than $100. I figure it’s okay to go the affordable route since I’m learning for the first time. If I’m still playing consistently in a year then I’ll upgrade to a higher quality guitar. Right now I probably couldn’t tell the difference between a $100 guitar and a $500 guitar. Does anyone have advice for the sore fingertip experience?