Hakko makes a darn fine iron. I use the Micro Mark 50313 and like it a lot. But that's just me. People laugh at me when I tell them that, but I love the little bugger.

Do a search on 'VoltSecond' 'Things that make you say Ouch'. Good safety tips and a heck of a nice guy.

Which reminds me, there is a nice little K-12M kit (from, I believe S5 Electronics) which is a little push-pull stereo tube amp. Lots of soldering practice and you get a surprisingly good little amp for about $150 or so. That’s everything, board, parts, etc. This amp also makes a really good platform for testing boutique parts.

Safety tip: Electricity goes from high potential to low potential. Always. Don't get in the way.

Good luck, keep in touch, let us know how you are doing.