Now that we have thoroughly confused you... [I cannot find anything "wrong" with any of the suggestions; just some of the priorities may be different...] I still think the best advice is to find somewhere to learn the basics first; a High School class or photo club, Adult Education, "Park Service" or community College classes, a local club or even a friend or neighbor that has gone before. The amount you can spend, the equipment available, and the results you can expect, are unlimited. Personally, I've loved working in the wet (B&W) darkroom. My results, though never World Class, were at least something to be proud of. That being said, personally I would not go back to the wet darkroom, except maybe for special alternative techniques which cannot be achieved in any other way. [Platinum prints. Gum bichromate...] The digital process, for me, opens up greater visions. This does not lessen the value of the traditional techniques. My hat's off to anyone who can turn out a full-range silver print, with no dust spots or wrinkles!