Kevin,
VFP gives you everything you need to do coding out of the box. From this thread I have seen just how mixed up .NET is. I have been told it is free and that I can download MSDE and then I can download an SDK and I can do coding in VFP to .NET if I have some DLL's. I need VS.NET or maybe I don't need it. I can just code in NOTEPAD to .NET if I am eager enough.
Basically, .NET is just fantastic.
It is so clear to you guys - I guess I'm a little dim - I must be `history'
I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by a conscious endeavor.
Henry Thoreau