+1 for the Mizuno Franchise. Not expensive and gets the job done. It was definitely a tight fit on my hand at first, but as with any new glove, you just need to work it in.
Agree on the shin guards. That's on my list to purchase. I took a shot to the shin from an awkward bounce over the winter, black, blue and swelling for two weeks and she's only 12. Wouldn't trade the ability to catch for her though. Worth it.