Want to start running.

I used to be in track in middle school. My specialty was long jump, and I would do that 50 yard dash or something? I've never been a runner. I have bad knees especially with the extra weight post partum. However I know running is one of the best things I can do for my body so I'd like to start.
How?
Do I need special sneakers, is it bad to run in the winter (NJ), should I start with something else? I dont like treadmills for running, that scares me.
Or, do I just run?

I just run. And for shoes, I wear Nike Free's. Anything with lots of plastic and rubber in the soles hurt my feet. Too much structure!

And running in the winter is just fine. Just watch your step for ice! Lol.

And drink lots of water. I have really bad knees and drinking water helps. Plus after about 2 weeks, I built up enough muscle in my legs to relieve the pressure a bit.

Quoting i ♥ nora:" I used to be in track in middle school. My specialty was long jump, and I would do that 50 yard dash ... [snip!] ... in the winter (NJ), should I start with something else? I dont like treadmills for running, that scares me. Or, do I just run?"

Try Couch to 5K. I did it, and I just ran my first 5K run this month!  
I have Nike Free Run 3's. I love them!

Drink tons of water!
Good luck!!

Quoting ♥Mama Constantine:" Try Couch to 5K. I did it, and I just ran my first 5K run this month!   I have Nike Free Run 3's. I love them! Drink tons of water! Good luck!!"

Wow, congratulations!
Thanks for the tips!

Quoting Michael Westen:" I just run. And for shoes, I wear Nike Free's. Anything with lots of plastic and rubber in the soles ... [snip!] ... knees and drinking water helps. Plus after about 2 weeks, I built up enough muscle in my legs to relieve the pressure a bit."

Thanks alot. I was thinking of taking tylenol arthritus before running for my knees for the first few times. I know once I get into a habit, itll get better as I lose the weight.

I just purchased Nike Women's Dual Fusion ST 2 Running Shoe. They are sooo light and comfortable!