The main reason I went for pally/mage/shaman is because, honestly I'd like to have several different classes/specs to offer for raids. I do like raiding on occasion and socializing as well, and having a variety of classes makes me useful in more situations. But I agree, handling the mage dps is gonna be a big problem, I may create a scaling cast sequence macro for her whereby the rank of the fire spell starts low and builds to full level only to drop again. It seems fussy and it means I lose dps, but it allows me to include the mage in the team.

The reason I'm using a dedicated healer early on is actually just for practice. I want to hone my skills with this group from early on. It may not be as effective as a 5 man shaman team, but it will give my accounts an overall utility advantage...maybe...

Thanks for the responses.