Here's a plan:
Gulfport Yacht Club (St. Petersburg/Tampa area) will host an A Class and F16 regatta this weekend, April 1&2, 2006. Why don't you jump on a cheap flight down here and hang out and learn about A's and F16s. You'll probably get some sailing time in as well. We have some excellent women skippers here. Jennifer Lindsey could tell you about handling either boat, on the water and on the beach. Ali Mims does a fine job soloing a H16 in Dunedin's non-race culture (day sailing, camping, drag racing, beer).
While you're here I've located a very nice Mystere 4.3 for sale. It has a snuffed spinnaker, trailer and cat trax, asking $3k (negotiable). You could look at this wonderful boat and talk to some very experienced M4.3 folks here who could show you how to make it sing.
If you're interested I bet someone would put you up at their home for the weekend. The weather will be 85 and "sunny". Do a Priceline or Hotwire search for cheap tickets and follow your heart, follow the boats.