how does a druid... work?

[evilbob]

As a starting point, why don't you try the RotG articles? Find them here:

http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/rg/20040511a

Thanks - I have a horrible time finding anything on the WotC website, so I had not been able to consistantly find these...

Edit: Although, as you said, this article is generally not nearly as descriptive as I'd like and doesn't actually answer any of my questions...

 

[Brother MacLaren]

So... Is there any reason a druid - at leats, one focused on wildshaping - would put her attribute points into any physical trait? Would it behouve her at all to basically dump her 3 worst attributes into physical traits at character creation (other than levels 1-4 of being a druid)?

Those levels 1-4 aren't trivial (and actually for levels 5-7 the offensive advantage from wildshape is often outweighed by the defensive disadvantage). That's a lot of adventuring.
Feats can be important. My druid can get astounding attack bonuses with wildshape and the right spells, but can't Power Attack to take advantage of that excess. And you need Dex 13 for Fast Wild Shape.
Other reasons for NOT being in wildshape, besides communication, include two very good spells - Spellstaff and Changestaff. Plus any staff or wands you've found or made.
Not all DMs agree that your animal form Con affects your HP - this is a point of contention. So, to be on the safe side, take a decent Con.
Finally, at level 13, the Thousand Faces ability works off of your base form - not wild shape. Unlimited Alter Self has many advantages.