I decided to take the leap, and I'm starting to regret it
please help

I've ran across several issues, but I'll list the first one only:

Running Windows XP
3 hard drives -
80GB - Windows default
200GB - Linux
500GB - files and documents

Downloaded OpenSuse 11.2

Installation appeared to complete easy enough.
Rebooted a couple of times and found I can select either Windows or Linux, so everything is good.

Removed the CD from the drive. Rebooted and I get the following errors:

Grub loading state1.5

Error 22

System won't boot unless the CD is in the Drive.

Is this normal?
How can I return it to just boot straight to Windows?
What problems will I have if I decided to get rid of SUSE and install Ubuntu?

thanks

No this is not normal. You didn't install the bootloader [GRUB] in your MBR. So, insert the CD, boot in Live mode, when you are in the desktop type: su and get root privilege. Then run "fdisk -l" to check your drives. Then install grub on MBR: grub-install /dev/sda [or /dev/hda depending on your fdisk -l output]

Firstly, if you decide to stick with your SUSE/Windows dual-boot, check out this thread on restoring Grub in openSUSE.

Or, if you want to get rid of SUSE and install Ubuntu, it may be just as easy -- and take only slightly longer. In this case, just proceed with a normal installation of Ubuntu, but make sure not to delete your Windows partition. The Ubuntu installer should recognize your Windows partition automatically and add it to GrUB's boot menu while it is install GrUB towards the end of the installation.

you are experience with restoring Grub.
My Windows xp main directory corrupts 2-3 times a year like clockwork. I have to re-install windows and suse linux. Linux has only failed once. Gotta love it. Does the opensuse dvd have a restore grub menu command?

What?
Clearly, you're doing it wrong.