I was once a newbie in your exact predicament. I'll tell you what I chose, and hope it gives you some insight.
First, CAD. You've got it covered.
Second, CAM: My best recommendation is to first learn how to manually program G-Code. This is an invaluable tool when debugging problems. It'll take you less than 1 week to become proficient at it. AutoCAD has a wonderful feature called "offset" that is awesome for manual machining. Just draw the path you want cut, then offset it by your cutter radius. Amazing!
Once your proficient with G-Code, and can program linear and circular interpolation by hand, you're ready to look at CAM software that makes this process easier for difficult shapes. There's a HUGE amount of information in the software section of this sight, and you're just going to have to look around and see what meets your needs.
Finally, the software that controls your CNC. I recommend TurboCNC. It's a great little DOS program! There's also EMC Linux, which I've heard is very powerful as well, although I've personally never used it.
When looking @ software, some of them have the CAD/CAM/CNC software all bundled together, which can save you significant amounts if you need all three. Again, this all depends on what you're doing and how much you're willing to spend.
Good Luck!
Edit: I was retarded. Said TurboCAD when I meant TurboCNC... (goes and gives self wedgie)(wedge)
My name is Electric Nachos. Sorry to impose, but I am the ocean.
http://www.bryanpryor.com
(Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)