Thanks for all your help, especially regarding the alchemy skill. Looks like I gotta have a holy bowl, first; so I'll wait for that and then start mixing away!
I have downloaded and installed the latest patch (1.47), and I still can't open barrels. With lvl 2 lockpick, my char. still said he didn't have enough skill.
Well, I'll hit the game when I get home tonight, so for now, I thank all of you for your help!
