It took me quite a while to get used to the Wacom, but once I did I can't even imagine trying to paint with a mouse.  First of all a mouse does not give you the ability to vary pressure nor can you change the tip so you can choose a 'feel' that fits your style and/or what you are using it for.
 
If you choose to go Wacom, then push yourself to use it for all your artistic needs...that is the only way you will become used to it and comfortable with it for all applications.  My set up is different than most.  I have 2 computers attached to one monitor, mouse and keyboard.  One computer is my art system and the other is my online and business system.  Though we have wireless throughout the house, I do my best not to go online with my art computer which provides a more secure environment.  My Wacom is attached to my art computer and I only use the mouse for basic functions.  The Wacom is used on that computer to do anything I need.  
 
The trouble I found with going back and forth between mouse and tablet for art techniques is I would find the tablet to be frustrating.  Once I resigned myself to use it for everything no matter how frustrating at first, I began to get very comfortable with it and that's where you need to go with that tool...if it doesn't feel like an extension of your hand, then it will never serve you well.
 
Only my opinion  

Oooo! Aaaaa! Pretty colors  

Quote from Rachel__144130 on May 4^th, 2011, 5:54pm:

 
Thank you Rachel!  Actually, I've never painted anything except a house.  LOL  I'll take that back, I painted a still life in Jr. High or High School that my mother still has last I saw it and painted some snow capped mountains and aspens on my mailbox about ten years ago.  Corel has been around a long time and I know a lot of people use the program.  I haven't and just started using this My Paint program with this picture.  I did do a practice run on a scrap page checking out the different brushes and what they do.  Nice thing is you can try something and if you don't like it, hit undo and try a different brush or tool.  They also have layers whcih I'm not sure what that is, but sounds like fun when I get my feet wet using the brush tools.
 
You should download the My Paint program and try it out.  I think you'll really llike it for working once you learn to navigate around in the application.  They've got a varied selection of brushes to work with, charcoal, pen, pencil, watercolors, air brushes, sprays, blending tools and more.  More than enough to do some nice work with.
 
If you start playing with this or Corel, be sure to share your work as you get the feel.  We'd love to see what you come up with!
 
Best always, Randy

Quote from Websprinter_148078 on May 4^th, 2011, 9:11pm:

 
Actually, I wasn't the one who introduced 'My Paint' originally.  I was looking for the post from the artist who found it, but it's either not in the system anymore or I'm not typing in the right search words.  But yes, if I could use it this easily without having any training in any of the other paint programs then I figure it must be easy and the results amazed me.  
 
Glad it's working out for you too and hurry with showing off some of your work using it as we're all holding our breath here!  
 
Best always, Randy