I was in the same boat as you and just did things along the way.
The way I go about it is.. Yeah just buy a bunch of seeds and stuff to plant for the appropriate season, and get all the crops to sell for more money or quests. Especially important to do immediately, as I hear. (Quests also give monetary rewards)
And with that you can build your own farm by collecting materials and raise your farming level just by watering frequently, planting etc so you can do more. Pretty much make it your own little area.
I've also found fishing to be a great way to make some gold so that you can improve your farm or upgrade your farming tools.
Also try collecting things by donating to the museums, raising affinity with friends, etc. There is lots to do and I feel you can just go at the pace you feel most comfortable with.
There are lots of things to do/upgrade and collect to keep you pretty busy.
I'm sorta new to the game as well so I'm sure other people have more to say on the game.