Questions about installing from net-install CD

[kaldrenon <kaldrenon@gmail.com>]

Hey all. I just installed etch onto my Dell Inspiron B130 laptop using
the net-install CD that I got at http://www.debian.org/CD/netinst/

Given the description of the installer on the website, I had been
under the impression that when I ran the install I'd be able to choose
packages from Debian's (rather massive) list, but that instead of
having to burn 21 CDs I'd be able to download and install the packages
of my choice during the install process. However, when I ran the
install, I didn't get a chance to choose any of these packages - I got
a simple dialog with options like Print Server, Mail Server, and Web
Server, but nothing like a list that would have taken 21 CDs to hold.

My primary question is, did I misunderstand what the net-install was
meant to do? I had thought it would give me access to the full package
list via downloads - does it not do that? Or did I do something wrong
during the install?

Recommendations and tips are appreciated - I'm fairly new to the *nix
world, so feel free to assume I know nothing, beyond what 'ls' does.

Thanks in advance,
Andrew