Hi Gary-

I agree with Kevin: take the guitar shop up on their offer to set the guitar up. It can make a world of difference to make sure the neck is at the proper angle. Tell them you'd like for them to "lower the action". (that puts the strings closer to the fretboard, making them easier to press down)

That, and a new set of light gauge strings ought to do the trick.

Many of my students use Seagull Guitars. They are just fine for the price range, but like any acoustic, will require the occasional tweak to keep them friendly on the fingertips.

Keep us posted - Lisa