Where to start

Hello all:

I am interested in learning to better feel and cultivate energy. I do yoga, am attuned to Reiki and I would like to start qigong. I did a course (6 classes or so) in continued education a few years ago, but I probably was not ready then - I did not stick with practice. Now my interest is renewed.

Unfortunately, there are no classes in my immediate area and driving even 30 min to class once a week is a bit of a challenge due to tight schedule. There is a chance one instructor will start a class in our town, but for now...

I am looking for any tips and recommendations on starting qigong as a home practice. Here are some questions which I woud love your input on:

1. best materials to get a good introduction to qigong (as a philosophy and energy system)
2. best books or dvds for practice
3. best time of day for practice
4. inside or outside (especially during the cold season)
5. what is the difference in effect form practicing qigong vs. tai chi?

Any other thoughts or advice for a beginner are very welcome.

Thanks, yozhik