Which iPad?

Hi everyone!

I'm looking into purchasing an iPad, but have had a hard time figuring out which one I want from so many of the different options. I have a new job where I'll be traveling quite a bit. I know I want a black iPad and I don't think a 16gb iPad is enough because my 16gb iPhone is already overloaded. So, that leaves me with a black 32gb iPad. Now the question is what type of an iPad? Should I go with the mini - I'm leaning more towards the original size because I'll probably be using it to watch shows (whenever I have a spare moment). But then...what generation? Definitely not the original iPad or iPad 2. I'm leaning more towards the 3rd generation because it uses the charger that I already have, which would make it convienent if I misplaced the cord (which I have been known to do more times than I can count).

After figuring out which generation, I then have to figure out Wifi Only for Wifi + Cellular? I have Verizon and I've been told that if I have the "Personal Hotspot" feature on my Verizon iPhone 4s activated, I can then tether it to a Wifi only iPad. To me, this makes the most sense to get, because I believe there will be free wifi basically whereever I go, except the times I'm in an airport where they charge $10/hour for wifi.

With that being said, I'd love to get y'alls opinion on the matter. Help a confused girl out?!

Thanks in advance!