Ok,
I took the plunge! I actually broke down and bought the Shimano PD-M324s. I decided that I would work with them to get accustomed to clipping in, and then, down the road when it is second nature, switch to a clipless only pedal like the Crank Bros Candy or the PD-m540 or something similar. Thanks for the good advice all, and you should know that, I weathered my first ride clipped in without going down even once!! The pedals do have their first battle scars though, I was riding out at Mission Trails park in San Diego, and a rock gouged up the platform side on my right pedal really good. A good time was had by all!!!
Thanks again for the advice!!