Welcome Dale!
There are a lot of us beginners here, but also some real masters kind enough to guide us along.
I can't recommend Steve's videos enough found at these locations:
http://engravingtraining.com/private/videos.htm
http://engravingtraining.com/private/tut1.htm
http://www.youtube.com/user/1birdflu
I would also checkout airamps "award winning" beginners tutorial at:
http://www.engravingforum.com/showthread.php?t=2365