...I'm giving it a try at the urging of pretty much everyone it seems. Of course knowing me I know I won't enjoy it if it's not fun, and it won't be fun unless I at least look like I know what I'm doing. I want it to be fun so I decided to take some lessons from a PGA pro (Scott Hampton) at the Mark Bostick golf course At UF. There are a lot of people who give lessons, but I figured a PGA pro would be better. The one thing I was taken back by was the cost for a series of five lessons he recommended as a beginner which was only $200. I was expecting to pay two to three times that amount. He also said to not worry about the equipment. 

Anyone else been through this that can enlighten me on what to expect?

Taking lessons at the start from a qualified instructor is brilliant. I waited. Now, I am paying a lot more for much longer to unlearn addictive swing habits. Your price is what I pay in middle Georga. I think it is cheap, too. Find folks to play with you. It always helps if some are better than you. That said, be wary of tips from other golfers until you are pretty good. Listen to your coach. It is fun. Last tip--Walk the course, don't ride. It is cheaper and more rewarding to buy a good bag and push cart. Enjoy the mindless exercise and sunshine.