All the advice you're getting about toe clips/straps seems good to me. Though in a quick read I didn't see anyone ask what size shoe you are wearing and what type of shoe. Getting in and out of a toe clip in a big shoe can be an issue that's really hard to solve. Make sure you are using the largest toe clip you can, really loose (or no) straps and as small a shoe as you can get your big foot into .

How much real efficiency and/or speed you're getting out of this particular arrangement is also pretty iffy.

I recommend getting a clipless pedal that has a platform on one side and clipless grip on the other.

I use these on my commuter:

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes...07_20000_37503

A mountain biking shoe with a clipless pedal will give you a good substantial shoe and grip and if you want to wear any shoe while riding then using the platform side would always be an option.