[2m] Getting back on 2M

[Hart]

I haven't been on 2M's  for awhile and I'm thinking of getting back on. 
The last time I was on all the local repeaters were dull and boring to 
listen too. I don't like the idea of using a computer to talk to people 
on other repeaters. To me it takes all the fun out of ham radio.  So I'm 
thinking of building a 12 or 15 element yagi (or something along those 
lines). And I'm wondering what brand of 2m rig I should buy that has a 
lot of power rather than buying a 2m amp. So my two questions are:
1. What brand of radio should I get, that has a lot or wattage output?
2. Does anyone have the plans or were I could get the plans to build a 
yagi antenna?

-- Thanks
73's Hart va3kis