Good luck Jennifer! You will LOVE being clipped in!
I also have the SPD pedals and my cleats are multi-directional, so I can get out of them at any angle...also I have the pedals set to the lowest tension, so thats it a lot easier to get out. Have you adjusted your tension?
Can't wait to hear about your adventures!
I am JUST learning the whole grab the water bottle without tipping over....dang ...that is not easy.

Have Fun!
Karen