only got a minute to reply to such a big question... so apols for being brief.
1) get a good book, like Vegetable Expert by Dr Hessayon (library)
2) use the Search facility on this website for specific and general queries
3) take it slow. Use the winter to read up on stuff, make lists of what you want to grow, and plans of what/when/where
4) enjoy it

__________________
~ What do I think of Western civilisation? I think it would be a very good idea ~ Gandhi