Welcome Billie. First rule: Have fun. This game is designed to be easy at first, you will start to figure it out, advance in levels very quickly and move up in tiers. It gets increasingly harder as you advance requiring you to upgrade your equipment. To prevent early frustration and maintain your enjoyment play at a sensible pace. Learn to play all the courses with what you currently have. This will accomplish 2 important things. You will not be raking out cash for balls or clubs, and you will get to see the different aspects of the courses totally free. As you advance and become more comfortable then try a better ball and perhaps a wedge or two. If you take it slow, listen to the experienced players and play with a few you will have a great time and learn very quickly. Definitely make some good friends and play with them. Don't even pay attention to your scores, never be embarrassed by bad shots and don't be afraid to try new things. Many of us over the years have done the same thing over and over and expect different results, then we complain about the outcome. I was guilty of this for way to long. Just a few tips from the old Hack Legend Squirrel Nutz. Have fun, the journey is more important than the destination.
Renniw52