Thank you all for the responses!

I have purchased a 10" All-Clad copper core pan, and a 3.5 qt All-Clad stainless steel pot (as Ivan says, for soups the liquid will take care of heat distribution so I fidured I don't *need* copper for them).

Next on the "to do" list is choosing a chef's knife and / or a santoku (smaller one) and a paring knife and this will be it.

Love cast iron, but not sure I will be using it much for starters so it'll come later. Low cost is good news, of course

As you see - keeping it very small and focused. While not adequate for family cooking, it would be perfect for just me. Btw, I found some BIN deals on e-bay so cost is much lower

Oh, yes - a cutting board, of course. I may just grab one of ours

Thanks again!
Ivo