what part of the body makes the most sense to start on

It would be a whole lot easier to start with a car that has no rust issues. There are lots of them in Nevada Arizona and California. It would save you a whole lot of hassle and would last quite a long time.

Thanks, but my goal wasn't to find a rust free car, not that I was hoping for the rust either.
I did a quick look in those 3 states you are referring to and only one '69 swinger (auto) showed up. Sure, probably no rust but I was looking for 4 speed car.

This should be a good learning experience and it will probably make me only look for rust free cars in the future, but i'm looking forward to it.
Besides... no looking back now... all of my metal has come in. :cheers: