I've always been interested in learning German, considering a lot of my family came from Germany... Can you refer me to a few good resources (books, audio, websites, etc)?

I know a few phrases, nothing special... but it would be nice to understand the language.

Just Google "Learning German" etc.

I'd prefer to find someone who knows of a good source instead of jumping into something from Google

Isn't Sebastian Mares from Germany? Perhaps he can help you.

ielanguages.com

Rosetta Stone is always a good program but I know German Level 1 & 2 Software is about $299, .

Sam Stockley does German at University.... if he's around...

/me waves.

I'm from Germany, too, but nevertheless I've no real idea how to lean german

Talking to people will help you a lot more than reading a book ever will.

German clubs in Connecticut
German-American cultural centres

I learned German through CDs by a guy called Michel Thomas - google the name for his website.

His products are expensive - but worth it. I cannot reccomend him enough. I studied German in school for 4 years and learnt more after 4 hours with his Cds.

http://www.germanfortravellers.com
http://dict.leo.org/ende?lang=en&lp=ende

You could always take a few courses in college if you're able to.

Viel Glück!

I've always found the masculine/feminine noun gender thing confusing in foreign languages, but in German you have to add neuter.

Take a one way ticket to Germany.