Here are some resources for WordPress beginners — we’re using this as a starting point for the July 25, 2011 meeting discussion.
The WordPress Codex: This is the user’s guide to WordPress. On the Getting Started with WordPress page, there’s a section of links specifically for beginners. I recommend First Steps with WordPress as a good introduction. WordPress Lessons is also a good place for basic information.
WordPress.tv: If you like videos, this is the place for you. You can view tutorials on a wide variety of subjects as well as sessions from WordCamps around the world! If you’re looking for the basics, try the How-To section.
Aaron Hockley on how to launch a blog: Aaron did this presentation both for us and at WordCamp Seattle. You can view both his slide deck and his original post on this topic.
Jump in at WordPress.com: If you just want to play around with WordPress, this is a great way to get started. You don’t need to buy a domain; just create an account on WordPress.com and go! You do have some limitations on WordPress.com — for instance, you are limited to the themes in their directory, and you can’t really play around with the CSS or use plugins. But you can learn how the admin panel works and get some practice creating posts and pages!
Portland WordPress Meetup 
The July 25th meeting was incredible. I’m so sorry you had a conflict. It was a packed house and we divided up into three groups, beginners, intermediate (themes), and advanced (writing Plugins and developing code and core). A brilliant chance for people to get their specific questions answered, work with each other to solve problems, and learn from each other. Fantastic!!! Let’s do this again very soon.