I got in on the group buy and am about to order spokes for my first wheel build. I'm a total novice and my neighbor is going to help me build them. He has built lots of wheels, years ago... I have 28 rear and 24 front. I'm looking for a strong yet light wheelset I will use for general riding and perhaps some racing. I'm 180lbs.

Where should I buy spokes?
What pattern should we use?
Any other suggestions?