Well, I'm still rather new to the decorating world myself, but Wilton sells a kit for newbies fill with a lot of things that you'll need. Are you going to take any classes? The class kits provides a few small items as well. Maybe some of the more seasoned cakers will reply to you post.

On another note, I had my gall blaldder taken out as well. The pain is intense. I suffered for over a year before I couldn't take it any longer. After eating a hotdog and french fries I thought that was just going to die. My husband had to rush me to the ER where I was prepped for immediate surgery. When I had flare-ups I thought that I just had sour stomach. Best of luck with that-you will fell alot better!

Angie