I believe I can do pretty much all I need to do (in theory) for the current app I am building. Except for push notifications. Is this something that can be done or is there a recommended push service that is easy to set up with the apps?

Hi Brad,
The Visual App designer is used to build your app layout. The push notifications should be controlled by the Cordova builder.
I've already added this request in the wishlist for the Cordoba builder add-ons.

Excellent, I look forward to the Cordova add ons!

Thanks

Another great Cordova add-on would be the ability to open pdf files from the app