I just started calorie counting, how do I figure how many calories I should be getting I am 5ft 1" and weight 243lbs

Try a site like this http://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm
enter in all your info and it will give you an idea of how many calories you need.

You can also try free apps (like my fitness pal, or lose it) they will also tell you the calories you need as well as help you track them!

Welcome and good luck on your journey!

Try myfitnesspal. It will give you a starting point. I am at 1320 daily

most people here use myfitnesspal you should check it out