I'm noticing as a ride that my running shoes are too wide for my petals, the sole sticks out too far and my foot isn't close enough in when I pedal. I'm thinking about asking for some cycling shoes for Christmas, but have no idea where to start to figure out what I want. Right now I have platform pedals. They actually have a plastic piece and a strap that I think is supposed to be a pocket for my foot, but it doesn't work. I've taken the strap off and am actually using the bottom of the pedals until I can figure out how to take the plastic piece off

Any shoe suggestions?

Secondly, I am turning my old mountain bike into one to run errands with. I want to put a rack on the back and get some panniers to go grocery shopping with. In looking at racks I'm finding most are aluminum, which I like because it won't rust in FL. The majority of racks only hold up to 25 lbs, although I called my local bike show and they have one that goes up to 50. What works best for you guys?

Thanks!