Marc- If you don't use binding slime, use a diluted dish soap solution. Don't use oils or suntan stuff. They will break down the rubber in your bindings, and they are more difficult to rinse out.
Foot forward- Do you ride a skateboard? Ride with the same foot forward. If you don't skate, do the following exercise: Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Have someone gently push you from behind. Whichever foot you put forward to stop your fall will be your foot forward for wakeboarding 9 times out of ten.
Getting up- Make sure that your dad is gentle on the throttle. While it's not too cool for the long run, you might want to use gloves. They may enhance your grip, and allow you to hold on longer. Don't try to muscle things. Gently rock forward until you are on top of the water and then stand up and turn the board. Try to watch an instructional video. Read the following instructionals from wakeworld:
http://www.wakeworld.com/Articles/2002/GettingUp.asp http://www.wakeworld.com/articles/2003/wfd.asp http://www.wakeworld.com/Articles/2001/Basics.asp HAVE FUN!
Let us know how it goes.