Hello everyone! I am in need of some advice.

Goals:Game Programming and Computer Graphics Design

Question(s):
1.How should I go about getting started on programming games ? (I would also like to learn how to program websites.)
2.How should I go about getting started on creating graphics and animation ? (I know this forum is about programming but I was hoping someone just might know. :) )
3.My understanding is software engineering explains how to READ and WRITE code. Sort of like learning any other language. Is this true?

Previous advice:
Before coming here, I was told to play around with Maya trial. Also for programming to learn software engineering first then pick a language. Also to learn JavaScript. (Note:Some mod makers and programmers suggested these. )

Background:
Straight out of High School. I have only a little experience making modules for NWN1 & NWN2. I also use to edit and make mods for Unreal. But I really enjoyed adding new graphics and making my own scripts, etc. Not to mention, there were guides telling how to do all these things. So it lead me to those goals.

Current Books:
1st- Sams Teach Yourself C++ (This book seems to be an old version. Also it doesn't explain HOW "x" works or WHY that "x" does what it does. It simply explains what to type. Which doesn't really help me. Because I need to understand.)
2nd- Learn JavaScript, by Jerry Lee Ford,Jr (Just got this book about five days ago. So I haven't really had a chance to get into it much. So far it looks fine.)

I really appreciate any help you pros can offer me!

Thank you for any advice!

-Damish