Help with 1.0

[ejimsmith]

I just want the same awesome mods I had in beta 0.9.   The stock install on 1.0 does not cover all the cool parts, and extras (I love me MechJeb).  I've been out of action since June, and the new release isn't working with my current crafts.  I can stick with the beta, but I want to use the latest and greatest.  What should I use?  What do people like?  I play sandbox, and am working to build some geo-sync comm-sats, a LKO station (likely a refueling one), and then some stuff in Mun (which I still haven't reached yet).  

Basically, give me a jump start on some mods I *should* be using to maximize my fun.  If you had a friend that was staring with KSP, what would recommend you give him/her?  That's what I want.  I promise to contribute further cause I love, loVE, LOVE KSP!!!!!!