New to Windows Live Mail

I added my gmail to my Windows Live.  I do not think Windows Live completed the import process.  How can I check this?  Also, Is the username and password that I created for Microsoft for this Forum automatically the WindowsLive ID?   I thought that when I started the Windows Live import Gmail process that I entered my Gmail mail address and password.  That worked and it started to import messages.  When I go to log in to WL with that Gmail user/password, it does not work.  I am confused by all of these difference user names and passwords and what works with what.  What I would like to do is import my Gmail contacts into Windows Live.  Good luck with this question.  I know it is rambling.  Thank you.