I think another worthwhile educational point is to be aware of the need for neuro-muscular training. This is nowhere near as magical as it may sound, I see it as simply the aclimation of your body and legs to accomplish pedaling smoothly once the saddle is positioned reasonably well. This is one reason beginners can't cadence fast, because the legs and feet (and core) are not yet acclimated to all fire at their correct moments. It's not just our quads nor just our glutes.
I have to go through this clumsiness for at least a little while every time I return to the bike after a few days off. I used to get frustrated and worried, but now I just accept it.