Welcome to the site Dan. I'm a newbie too as I just converted my bike last month. Riding it is very weird at first but after about 600 miles of riding I'm really getting to like it. Turning it can still interesting a little bit but do what "Carla" says in a previous post.
"Know I have to wait until spring to ride."
Guess what? You really don't have to wait until Spring. Of course, it depends on your cold weather tolerance but there is some pretty good clothing gear out there to help with that!
Seeya on the road...
P.S. I still try to put the kickstand down when I want to get off of it...