@garthr
One point I left out regarding the desire to change bikes is that the more I ride this touring bike and the higher my fitness level gets, it is more than apparent that this bike is too small for me. I need a bigger, and I was hoping for a faster, ride.
Thought: Since I currently have strong wheel, that need re-tentioned and trued by a pro, decent components for commuting and weekend rides...what if I just pick up a bigger frame and swap over the parts. A cyclecross frame should be able to take my touring wheels without a problem. I tried to stick them on an old (early to mid 90's) Cannondale road frame and it would be a tight fit even with smaller tires on the big rim. So I could get a new frame and go from there with just a few new parts to make the swap work, or get new wheels and move the parts over to my Cannondale frame that's 2cm bigger than the one I'm currently riding. Either way will save me some money and get me where I want to go. Right?