This is giving me tons to think about, and I actually really appreciate the stories of people's experiences on returning to biking. I've been a little frustrated this week because I don't mind riding in damp, but it's been outright raining all week which has kept me off the bike for a few days... really irksome.
Obviously a lot of folks are leaning flat-bar. I'm going to go (probably this weekend) to a shop and spend some time kicking tires and riding a bit to get some idea for what they're like. It's going to be a bit before I make a decision. I'll leave my wallet at home as one very wise soul here suggested.
You've all been fantastic. Thank you so much.