Where to start

After leaving chess for a few years due to circumstances, my rating and ability have dropped hundereds of points. I figured it'd come back quickly (as in my mind remembering) but I was very mistaken.

So where to start? Openings, Tactics, Middle Game, End Game?

"All the above" is the obvious answer but that is too hard for me. I don't mean "hard" like "work" but circumstances deny that option. I want, for example, to read/study one type of book and then move on.

Any advice is appreciated. 

Try my video lessons course, it's on youTube and free. I lay out a good program to maximze your time and focus on what you need to know. I have a group about to hit 2,000 members in less than a year.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDghkp2J0_kr3zoHS3ZNIFzcrAtAhmAfk

http://www.chess.com/groups/home/nm-aww-rats-free-video-lessons

minimize?

maximize the effect of the time you spend- in other words, do the most with the time you have.

Thanks aww-rats, I'm checking it out. Looks great.

Any good books to consider? I'm a big "book guy" and am alway looking for an excuse to buy another one. 

 I recommend the following books,,,, 'Chess for Dummies' by James Eade. This comprehensive book covers chess from every angle and is perfect for anyone of any age starting off in chess. It covers the very basics as well as the more complex tactics and end games etc. It is written in a fun and easy to read way and is perfect for someone wanting to understand why some moves are better than others.

Another book I like is 'How to beat you dad at chess' by Murray Chandler.. this covers the 50 most common checkmate patterns and ( on a personal level) it is great when you learn a pattern and get to actually use it in a game..( I used a smothered mate I learnt from the book).

The other book I suggesris an updated version of Capablanca's very instructional guide to chess( the title eludes me..  but his name is a part of the title) anyway there are so many books out there...not forgetting the internet and youtube,