Welcome to the board and the exciting world of quilting. Looks like others have some great advice on patterns and things to buy and I completely agree with the be sure to start something you like its so much easier to finish it.
I would only add that if your machine has just been sitting for quit awhile, before you actually start sewing get the manual out and follow the directions to give it a good cleaning and oil it if your manual recommends it. Start with a fresh needle too. If you are not comfortable doing it on your own you can call around to sewing and vac stores, or quilt shops to give it a good cleaning and tune up.