Hey Brad,
If you're looking for quick kegs to pound back at the lake, the festa kits are definitely one of the easiest brews to make, and they are good quality.
Doesn't matter if you stay with kits, or go all grain, you're more than welcome here. There are basic brewing techniques you'll use for every type of alcohol you make, be it kits, extract, all grain, wine, etc. Sanitization, proper equipment, temperature controll are all the foundation of making great brew.
I remember using the "trial and error" method of learning to brew in the beginning with kits and festas....not a good feeling when you end up pouring out 40+ bottles of beer because of an infection. I hooked up with this crew and have made great beer since.
WARNING: If you attend a meeting and sample all the various beers these guys make, you could very well end up with a new obsession....