Needing small electronics help

[JustPlainJim]

Well, since I'm new here, I might as well jump right in!

Nerds. I need nerds right now.

I've done a couple small electronics projects before (though, they're just above the level of a flashlight. A bit of soldering here and there), and I'm starting yet another project. I know what parts I need and I know how they all go together, but I just don't know where to find 'em!

Things like microcontrollers, diodes, crystal oscilators, etc. Radio Shack doesn't have squat, and they look at me like I'm crazy when I ask about this stuff.

Anyone willing to offer some help? Know where I could start looking for some of this stuff?  

[DivideByZero14]

Well, your Shack should have oscillators, and I cannot believe they don't stock diodes...that's like milk. Would they ask you to live without milk!?! scream

As for microcontrollers, there are enough types of those you'd need a higher-end, more specialized store for something like that. Online you have to buy in bulk or in presorted kits. Do you live in a metropolitan area, or somewhere among the Mole People of northern Montana?  

[JustPlainJim]

Ehh... semi-urban. A city of 100K+, about 5 hours from Chicago. The shack had SOME of the diodes I needed... I hate to admit this, but I'm not exactly experienced with stuff like this. I haven't found anything local for stuff like this, believe me... Though, I did find a site online that had the microcontroller I need for about $3. ... And $6 shipping.

Here's a list of exactly what I'm looking for (if it helps): Parts list