-- Last Updated: Feb-26-13 4:35 PM EST --
Congratulations! Check your bank account at the door for a while...
Your profile says lakes/flat water and your post talks about paddling on Lake Erie. The Great Lakes are not what people mean by flat water - they are inland seas and are best approached with bigger water, sea kayaking skills.
I just checked and it appears the folks at Riverside Kayak can get you started well. If you haven't already, put some time with them on your calendar.
Since there are two of you, I would strongly suggest that you get some work on rescues as soon as the temperatures and your tolerance work out. It is sooo much easier with two people - take advantage of that.