If you go to the start screen and just start typing, a search box will appear. You can also bring up a search box from the desktop by hitting Win + S or move the mouse cursor to upper right corner to display the Charms bar and click on the search icon (looks like a magnifying glass).
I personally prefer to search for files from within Windows Explorer. That way I can limit which folders get searched.
I've never been infuriated by Win 8, sorry you find it that way. Maybe after you use it awhile you'll see that it has more in common with Win 7 then you realize.