Hi bhome83,
Here are my thoughts on this matter: Both the Intel P4 and AMD Athlon XP are "good" processors. The important thing when building a new computer is making sure you pick the right components to go along with the CPU...you want to avoid incompatibilities that can result in an unstable system before you start your build.
Which ever CPU you decide on, make sure you match it to a high quality, name brand motherboard that has a proven track record.
The same goes for all the other components...get good quality RAM, a good case with an approved high quality power supply, a good video card, sound card, hard drive, etc...
Careful planning before you buy your parts and put them together will go a long way toward whether you end up with an "okay" system that you don't mind using, or a "great" system that you love to use.
A good computer is the sum of it's parts. Consider the whole picture when you plan your build.
Cricket