Robeez or Robeez knock offs that they carry at Target are probably the best shoes for a new walker. Barefoot is actually best but sometimes that isn't always possible or desirable.
Super Baby Foods is a good reference for first foods and how to prepare them. Usually babies do have a sweet tooth. Breast milk is very sweet so it's no wonder they often go for fruits. My son didn't like bland foods so was turned off by things like rice cereal, oatmeal and avocado. I did have success mixing a bit of fruit with more savory veggies. You might try doing that.