Thank you for the replies
I will pick up a couple copies of chessmaster (one for myself and one for the girlfriend) I will also try to find a copy of "idiot's chess"
Although admmitedly I did kinda jump the gun and already get this book

Amazon.com: Chess for Everyone: A Complete Guide for the Beginner: Robert M Snyder: Books

Although I haven't read any of it yet . . . . hopefully it'll be helpful

Keep the ideas/advice coming tho, I welcome any input