You're better off getting the most forward (bulkhead) seat, because many of the emergency exit seats, as was mentioned earlier, do not recline.
As to little old ladies being next to an overwing 737 "escape hatch;" Actually the new 737s feature "outward and up" hinged doors that no longer need to be "unplugged" and lifted to be positioned on the seat, or to be thrown out unto the wing. Next time you're paxing in a 737-700,-800,-900 NG (Next Generation) take a good look at those new overwing gadgets!
