Thanks for the kind welcome, folks!
I have been out today bombing around in the rain with the X3. Somehow, the rain on the windshield makes me realize and appreciate the amazing all around view afforded by this new ride. The height advantage is really very easy to take for granted, unless you are dividing your time between an X and an E39.

The gearing is very different (of course) between the two cars as well. I really like how switching between such different vehicles keeps you on your toes in both. This X3 reminds me a good deal of my old 325is (E30? I forget) in both the gearing (the X3 is a bit lower and has that 6th speed that I always wanted for the 3) and the handling.

Bumpy is certainly one way to describe the ride. I do not see this version of the X3 being much of an off-road master at all. At slow speeds over broken ground, it seems sometimes a challenge to stay in your seat. I do not, on the other hand, mind the road-related jolts that come with highway speeds over Pa. roads. The X3 definitely feels more like my beloved 3 than my 540i.

As for the damage, do not fear. The offender's insurance co. has already been in contact and will be viewing the car on Tuesday. I am having my superb independent Bimmer guy do me an estimate as well and I will be sure to get my new friend all cleaned up in no time. Probably all she will need is a new bumper cover, spare tire tray and muffler before she is good as "new".

I have a couple of newb questions, but I figured it better to start a new thread for those.

Cheers and thanks again for the welcome.
D