Aerobars -- I rode with mine for the first two years I was in Randonneuring, then removed them in 2003 because they are banned on the PBP ... and I've never put them on again. Like you say, they're good in flat terrain, but not much use in hills.
52 Ring -- I had mine removed ... actually I had all my chainrings replaced and now my biggest ring is a 48. Much better!
Bento box -- that's one of the reasons I have one ... half my rides are done wearing multiple layers and if I have pockets in the clothing I'm wearing (and often I don't) they are buried so deeply I can't get at them anyway. Bento boxes are so handy!
Bottles - I'm glad you liked them! I have back problems with my camelbak too.
Food - it strikes me a bit funny ..... a lot of American riders go the "powdered" route. Canadians, Australians, and Europeans tend to prefer the "real food" route. Since you're not going to the PBP, stick with whatever works for you ... but if you were, I'd suggest working on getting used to eating a lot of real food during the rides.
Congratulations on a good ride!