I recently went through the same phase, as I acquired a Cozy.
Bill and many others at Chino really took me under their wings and were a tremendous help to get me initiated. As a result, I am getting more comfortable not only with the airplane but also its system. Its been very gratifying six months of learning/flying, and getting to know the wonderful folks at Chino.
You may also want to contact John Fisher (805) 964-1655 at Santa Ynez who is a CFI with a dual control long-EZ. He was gracious enough to give me several hours of dual instructions in his EZ - prior to the Cozy acquisition. Now looking back, I am amazed at his calmness and restrain to keep his hands off the stick with me over the threshold - going all over the place.
Good luck Jim, and congratulations...
Asif