Introductions - Newbie on a Bike

Hi everyone,
Just a short intro to get going on the forum.
Got my Cannondale Synapse 6 last week on wednesday and I have already put in 3 10mi rides around the area. I am new to road bikes but I am exited about the sport.
I have almost everything on my Synapse except the pedals.
I am starting with normal "flat" pedals (like a kid) but i am looking to make the jump soon. If anyone has any suggestions of a good set for a beginner (that are not too expensive) let me know.
Any suggestions as to how far I should push myself during these first few weeks?

Thanks!

Welcome to the forum!

If you are unsure about clipless pedals, you can always get platform/clipless combination pedals that can be used with regular shoes or those with cleats:

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/images/pd6500.jpg

Thanks CBadRider, i will look into those.

Those are good pedals. Get the hang of disengaging in parking lot or grassy field. I totally freaked out when I had to stop for real at a light and fell over in front of a stopped car, not hurt just embarrassed.

Thanks ncdave45, surprisingly I took the big leap today and bought Shimano PD-R540 pedals and Shimano SH-R807W shoes. Everyone in my cycling circle said I should just make the jump and I got a great deal at a local store.
I guess I'll share some pics of the bruises once I get back on the bike ;)

Set the release tension to the lowest setting so unclipping is fairly easy. Then after you're used to the pedals you can increase the tension if needed.
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Thanks RonH, is there any special "practice"you recommend when trying these out?

Practice "emergency stopping" and unclipping situations so you can be prepared. Also practice unclipping while you're just riding along.