74xx gates which is possibly a good way to go
If nothing else, it is probably the simplest way for someone that is only going to use PLD for limited purposes. I do believe that the learning curve is the shortest.

Of course, for complex CPLDs I would take another route, and having had to to that, I do not use Schematic entry myself. So, if you plan to go for more comples CPLD designs in the future, it might be advisable to jump into the water and go for a "logical language" from the onset.

Erik