New to Python/Programming

[Mark]

Hello.  I am new to programming and Python and was wondering if someone 
could help get me started.  I picked Python to start learning to prgram 
because of some things I have read about it (easy to learn, object 
oriented, clear syntax, etc...).  Can anyone assist in getting me 
started with learning to program and Python?  Recommended reading 
material?  Online tutorials?  Recommended development tools (wxpython, 
pythonwin, etc...)?  I am a network admin by trade and have done little 
programming except for the occasional script or router config.  this is 
something that has always interested me, but don't have the time to take 
any formal classes.  Thanks for the help.