Update: Rode down to the LBS and asked about the front derailleur issue. Turns out I was not fully shifting the lever. Initially, I was a little hesitant to push the lever any further over than I was but sure enough, a full push and the front derailleur clicked onto the larger cog instantly. I rode home going up and down all the gears and it was perfect. I just have to push over a little more than I expected - I was paranoid about snapping something.

P.S. The ride to the LBS and back was 19.5 miles (a long distance for me) - I rode the circuit at a constant 11 mph and that includes a 2.5 mile CLIMB home. Love this bike!

P.P.S Oh- and I didnt stop on the 2.5 mile hill once! Im quite proud of myself.