I really appreciate the great replies here. I neglected to mention in the OP that I had already shimmed the cleats and was still having severe difficulties clipping in. So today, my husband shaved down the soles of my very heavy-treaded shoes where they were contacting the pedal platform possibly more than they should be. I haven't actually ridden the bike yet, but clipping in and out inside the house seems a lot easier, so I have high hopes that I'll get used to and enjoy these pedals a lot. I possibly should have gotten the regular Eggbeaters rather than the Candy SL's, but now that I have them, I certainly plan to give them a reasonable chance.

Karen, I'll post a picture of my Bike Friday soon, but it looks like I may have to send it back, as it appears that they made the top tube about 1.5" too long for me. It also has the clunky fit stem on it right now, and I'd rather show it off once I get the pretty custom curved stem made. I'm really disappointed that it didn't fit just right as I am so excited to try it out, but it's not like I don't have other bikes to ride in the meantime!

Thanks again to all who posted!

Emily