Good for you Steve. As Jay said, be prepaired to spend a couple of bucks. Don't tell the wife or girl friend how much it costs.........
If you go Tech. its a bundle, if you go the Padi way its a bundle ?? Tread the water and take it slowly, and when you get fifty dives under your weight belt then look at what you want to do next. This forum carries all types of certified divers, so ask questions, and kept breathing !!
Cheers
Kevin