Hey Daniel,

www.vocalist.org offers loads of good advice on singing technique and exercises. These are a really good starting point, but in the long run -and for the health and safety of your voice- there is nothing better than finding a good vocal coach who specialises in the kind of music you want to sing.
Even if you only take a couple of lessons, a professional opinion on your singing and technique should point you in the right direction!
Hope this helps. Good luck!
Jan

I want to take lessons, but I admit to being kind of a wuss at this stage of the game. I'm scared to perform in front of people until I somehow get confirmation that YES, I can sing.

That in mind...

Is it normal to get a 'head rush' kind of buzz from really belting one out? It's kind of like when you hyperventilate for a while... the hands tingle a little and the brain kind of shifts a little. Is this okay or is it improper breathing?