PH2 does not count as core rule, as I have limited time to go through all the rules. I do have interests in bard, half-orc, and some resources available through PH2, however, I think I will start from the basics.
I would suggest not using halfling and draconians, to be honest, I have very little interest in these creatures and thus will have a hard time tailoring their stories, they belong more to monster manual than player race anyway. Eladrins are renamed high-elf, and elf are renamed wood-elf.
Evil and chaotic evil characters are not allowed, as always.