A few points regardless
Hi djtitch,
As you may have gathered, you have posed a very wide ranging question. There are other forums which deal with training and I see you initially posted on Wannabees, but the Mods moved your post here. Perhaps reading through that forum will help, although it relates to commercial training and assumes some considerable background knowledge.
Some points that apply which ever route you take:
1. Medical
For most Private and all Commercial flying you will need an aviation medical. It is a good idea to get this first, so you don't spend a lot of money and effort only to find that you can't fly for medical reasons.
2. Financial
Sadly flight training is expensive. Some organisations offer considerable discounts for advanced payment. This is widely viewed as a dangerous option. In these hard economic times, even well respected organisations have failed due to finances. Some less reputable operators have taken a lot of student's money with them. The most common advice offered on these forums is 'Don't Pay Up-Front'.
3. Hours to achieve qualifications
At the initial Private Pilot level, few people achieve the qualification in the minimum number of hours. Those that do are either naturally gifted or have had extensive previous aviation experience with family / friends or some form of youth training organisation. It's always worth asking a training organisation how long the 'average' student takes to achieve the licence with them.
Good luck with your training.
Safe Flying,
Richard W.