Welcome Keva!
A few tips to get ya a rolling
Take a 2x4 or 4x4 and lift the back end of the saw up. This will help you see what you cut better and easier on the back,
Buy some good blade.
My choice is Flying dutchman Blades, and I get them from Mike great guy to deal with. If your not sure what blade you need for cutting a project ask him he is a scroller to . You will see some tricks and tips and other info that is helpful .on his site
http://www.mikesworkshop.com/
There is also Olson Blades and a few others
Don't be afraid to ask a question, there are NO stupid questions
David