Veronica's right. If you watch, after that first "pump" the tire pressure will register. Pretty normal.

Most of the time that airpressure sound when you remove the pump head is just air in the pump hose. You'll know if you accidentally release too much air from your tire...it'll feel soft.

As far as asking a stupid question...no such animal!

Ok here's my sexist observation for the day. I notice while working in the bike shop that many men will ~pretend~ they know what they are doing, even if they don't. Sometimes it's funny to watch! Women seem to have no qualms asking "what's this for?" or "how do I....?"