Sorry, I can't agree with these points from a previous poster:
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you should downshift/engine brake or you will wear out your brakes. (Brakes are designed to slow the car down and are cheaper than transmission/clutch.)
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you should start off from full stops in 2nd gear. (Ever hear of clutch slip which is synonymous with clutch wear?)
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the less time you spend in 1st gear, the less wear on your car. (I don't know where to start on this one...)
You can find a few links about driving a manual transmission here... read for some good advice...
Driving a Manual Transmission
Oh, and BForbes, it's very important to rev match with your girlfriend - if you don't, you'll find yourself grinding your own gear!