Hi Robert.
You were pointed in the right direction.
This place is full of helpful and informative people who won't make you feel stupid for asking a question. Every true master or guru of something was at one point a newbie themselves.
As for jumping right in and not hurting your brain too badly - I'd suggest DAZ Studio.
For one, it's FREE.
It's easy to use and once you get the hang of it you might want to have a look at Poser (not free but pretty powerful).
It goes without saying (or typing!) but if you have any questions ask away.
This place has it's resident gurus in everything from TS to LWO and from MAX to Poser and Daz Studio. I'm sure somebody will be willing and able to help you out.
I hope you enjoy the whole CG thing as much as the rest of us do and I look forward to seeing some of your art when you get around to it.
