WelcomE!!! =)
SOldering 101 - Here is a list of what you should have when practicing:
Soldering Iron (15W is more than enough)
Desoldering Iron
Solder (thick[size of the tube with pen ink] and thin)
Sponge (make sure it's DAMP)
Computer Ribbon Cable (best practice wire)
Solder Flux
Plug in your soldering iron...let it heat up! Now, take the thick solder, and COAT the iron (about half of the soldering iron is good). What you are doing here is helping the iron and the tip from burning out fast and helps preserve it as well. Spread the solder all around it and shack it off onto a plate (it's VERY easy getting it off). When you see it's enough on it, wipe the iron on the sponge and you'll see the iron looks more new and fresh as well. This will also help melt the solder faster when applying it or taking it off. Do the same with the desoldering iron when you start practicing with that.
Now, using any cheap/broken board, apply the tip of the iron onto the solder on the board and don't leave it for more than 5 seconds, lift it up for 1 second, then back on for 5 (repeat). You'll see how the solder melts easily. Thats the best way to start just to get the idea of how to do this.
The process for the desoldering iron should be VERY simple once you coat the tip only. Suck it up, and spit it out on the side...very easy.
When you are ready to practice with applying wires on the board, this is what you should do. First, strip the wire at the end, then twist it around so you get all the wire strands together. Next, dip the wire (stripped part only) into the flux (or lemon juice
). Now, take some solder and swipe the iron over the wire. You are doing whats known as tinning the wire. This will help the wire stick to the board faster.
These are just some basic pointers really when soldering for the first time. Everything else comes in time and with experience. Before you get into making your portable, PRACTICE FOR AT LEAST 2 DAYS!!!!! Get the experience without RUSHING so you don't waste lots of money making your project. Have fun!!! :
Not that that is important at all...... 
oops...
)
You're such a comedian