"I actually followed one guy for a good long stretch. It was fun pretending."

That totally sounds like something I'd do!

I've actually decided now to skip the clips altogether and just ride with regular shoes until I find bike shoes that fit. I know the clips would be inexpensive, but I figure I'll just put that money towards shoes, and I won't have to get used to clips, and then start all over again learning clipless.

So, I'll just practice riding a bike (it HAS been 20 years!!), until I find the shoes. Well, at least that's what I'll be doing once I actually get my bike. Funny how many riding decisions are being made someone who doesn't even own a bike!