Bob,
Welcome to the club!
In the spring NSPN puts on a "New to sea kayaking" workshop. The workshop is free to members and non-members alike. It will be a good place to gather information on safety, boats, equipment, safety, places to paddle, safety, to meet others to paddle with....and ...did I mention safety?
Also, once we have enough evening daylight there will be postings for lake, skill sessions scattered around the area. You shouldn't have any trouble finding people willing to give you advice and help you develop some basic skills.
What area do you live in?
See you on the water,