new to soldering/modding -- what do i need?

Solder Soldering wire
Flux Which solder paste, please?
Silicone wire from ebay or hobby shops. You might want some 24AWG, 20AWG and I like 22 AWG as general purpose wire.
Most all the other stuff RD mentioned can be purchased at Fasttech.
When you head back to HF you might pick this up http://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-precision-pliers-set-31675.html
Almost ever piece will come in handy at some point in this crazy hobby. Lowes also has a similar set and seem high quality, but the price is quite higher to.