If used gear is ok, it's hard to go wrong with an iriver (120, 140, 320, or 340), a church audio 9100 preamp, and some audio technica 853 mics. You might be able to get all of that for $300 used.
But what everyone else says above is true as well. Starting off with the R-09 and the internal mics is a smart move. I know several tapers with pretty high-end mics who use the R-09 as their main recorder. I've never owned one, but I've used them a bunch, and always been satisfied.
And lastly, if things don't work out with your guy, you wanna marry me? I'd love to have a partner so supportive of my hobby/obsession