OK, I've put about 70 miles on the bike these last few days and I'm not intimidated any more.
This bike is truly impressive. I don't really have to think -- it does what I want it to do. Feels very planted. The only thing I need to get used to is braking more smoothly; I'm getting a lot of nose dive, which I think is happening from braking too hard.
Gear changing is getting smoother all the time.
You can reduce the "nose dive" effect some buy downshifting but BEFORE letting out the clutch give the throttle a little blip, this helps rev the engine up a bit to settle the bike. Since you're just learning this might take a little practice as well. Remember, DO NOT let the clutch out first you might pull an unwanted wheelie!
Oh, and try this link for posting pictures.
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=109.0