What kind of pads should I buy? I am unable to spray because I dont have the equipment, is there another way of doing it?

I am going to have some serious sanding to do to get back to where I was, I wonder if it would be ok to use a radom orbit sander for this first sanding?

I am not ready for anything more advanced than what you mentioned above.

As far as the finish I am trying to achieve goes..I just want a smooth and clear satin finish that will last for many years.