You may be limited in choices if you're plugging the mic directly in to the mic jack on the PC. If you're just wanting to test the waters with a mic, I'd go tap the local
Radio Shack and pick up a 10-15 dollar dynamic mic. These will normally be equipped with a 1/4 male jack. You'll have to get a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter to fit your PC. They do just fine for this level of recording. I used them for years. I still have two of them!
Also, mic jack points on most mother-board soundcards are mono, not stereo. So be sure you get the appropriate mono adapters. You may want to double check the PC Manufacturer web site to determine the sound capabilities of your laptop.
As far as software goes for recording, if you're familiar with Goldwave and it's workings, stick with it. Otherwise, Audacity is freely available over at sourceforge and very simple to use.
Hope this helps
lc