Thank you so much for the amazing reply! How do you think these choices look?

For the paints: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0019IP11A/ (I wasn't able to find the kind you suggested on Amazon for < $50)

For the brushes: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000WOTCXA/

For the paper: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00251AIO0 (The Arches was unfortunately out of my price range)

Palette: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0028FO1BO/

For the misc -- do I need to wet the paper before trying? Which bottle brand do you recommend?

Thanks!!