winkler.. welcome!
you are on your way to the most fun you can have with your clothes on.
tho.. not to put you off, the question you ask is the age old tell-tell that you have not taken lessons and therefore need to direct all energy into doing so ...
take a read through this:
http://www.fksa.org/viewforum.php?f=106
there you will find info for local instructors and maybe some tips to get the most out of your first lessons.
DO NOT buy any gear until you take lessons.
Be safe!
Bryan