I had surgery October 1 and since 1 week postop have not walked or done any form of exercise. I could make up plenty of excuses( I have moved,work 60 Hr weeks, -b12 levels low) but anyways I'm not here to make excuses or be judged. I don't want to waste this opportunity I have been given. Where should I start? How much? How often?

A very good point. As I said, I really like Mark Rippetoe's plan. I basically follow it when I want to improve strength. If you never have check out the New Rules Of Lifting books. They are also very basic but effective. The workouts are based on the popular lifting sequence of a push, pull, squat, lunge and twist. It's sequence has been used very successfully in the crossfit routines as well as many met training routines.

The books also lay out a very simple and easy to follow plan for beginners. It's why I like them so much for many people here. There seem to be many people here who do not have a lot of experience with resistance training. My one knock on Starting Strength is that Mr. Rippetoe is so precise and detailed with his form and technique. While that's good, it's very difficult for a new, novice lifter to do unless they have some coaching. While people who have many years of lifting experience have less trouble with the technique.