Never Wakeboarded before...tips and costs.

Hey,
I've never wakeboarded before, but I body board, and kneeboard and am a "water-boarding" enthusiast.
I have been wanting to get involved in wakeboarding, but dont know anyone who can. I am planning on possibly buying a board and whatever other equpiment I will need, and just taking it out onto the lake and giving it a whirl.
I've read up on the tips for beginners, but had a few questions.
A. Will I need a tower?
B. Am I completely insaine for just going out there and winging it?
C. What type of board, and how should I know what size (i.e up to shoulder?)?
D. Will I need to buy bindings seperatly?
E. To "get started" what BASIC equipment will be needed?
I think that pretty much covers most of my questions FOR NOW, I am as green as it gets...thanks for the help!