CONGRATS!

I know my first few group rides with my LBS were HARD! I could not keep up... and at the end of the 30 miles.... I would be riding alone... and very tired. The group was not *tight* or very friendly.

I then started searching for cycling clubs/groups... and I found two local ones that host "no drop rides". Meaning: If you are slow, they won't lose you.

That is what worked best for me.

I found people who were friendly, and at the start of the rides I always go around and shake hands.

Here is another good thing to do... tell the riders your experience... and that you are new! You will find one kind soul who will keep an eye on you, and make sure you don't get lost. That is how I finally stopped getting dropped by myself.

Best of luck! Group rides are fun... it is great being in a pack of cyclists!