Good explanation and questions.

Thinking it over, the things that I'd love to achieve via programming in one year:

• Possible iPhone app idea that finds information based on geographical location (with pre-existing info, like wikipedia). And another app idea that helps people determine the right ratio of ingredients for baking.
• Finally figure out how to do stuff with Arduino. Motor controller stuff.
• Maybe some simple online calculators -- most seem to be made already, but I'm always looking for more.

I suspect those three areas might use different languages. But if there's a good spot to start some super basic learning, I'd love to get pointed in that direction.