Hey cgchris99!

I would say:

First, download FMS (flying model simulator.) it's free and a good way to start learning without paying a lot of money for pricey sims. Download some trainer models (the ones included are pretty crappy) and those'll help you learn orientation and such.

Check out the hobbyzone line of planes, if you want to start easy and work up. They are pretty sturdy and will take some heavy beating, and they're all RTF (ready to fly). prices are WELL under $200, some under $100. These are good first-time trainers.

If you want to start with a plane that actually looks like a plane and not a pod stuck on a stick, Go Parkzone. I started with a Cub after a long time on FMS and the Cub was a breeze. See the Cub forum in Electrics-->Parkflyers and Backyard flyers--> Parkzone J-3 Cub (or something like that) for more information.

The entire parkzone line is in general pretty good. After the Cub to start with, the stryker F-27B is a good choice to progress to, and from that you can go wherever you want... maybe try some ARF's, whatever.

Just a way to learn to fly tears-free and without an instructor.