I'm going to be working on updating the site in a few months (probably) from 1.5.2 to 1.5.14...whatever the latest is.
What should I be doing as far as ensuring I have all the modules, components, plugins, etc... as back ups?
When I look at my C-Panel, the mods, comps, and plugs there...are those the actual files? or will I have to download them ALL over again??
I just want to ensure as smooth a transition as possible. Any links to various resources you may have posted on RT before would be appreciated as well.
Unless you have made some core modifications to the standard joomla installation, you should be fine to overwrite with the update to 1.5.14.
I wouldn't wait a few months to update the site, you should update it now and always keep upto date with the latest updates to joomla, template, components, modules and plugins.
Espcially joomla, as there have been a number of security bulletins since joomla 1.5.2