If you were comfortable on the drops on the Paramount, I might consider getting the shifting system up graded and ride that. You can get a Shimano 105 Group on eBay for around $400. The 105 is Shimano's mid line group, but will be much better than what's currently on the Paramount (in terms of ease of shifting). If you decide you don't like the Paramount with 105 you can easily get your investment and more back selling it. My experience has been that anyone who really enjoyed road riding and returns to it without any major functional limitations is eventually going to want the thrill of a drop bar road machine. So, IMHO your Paramount is a great foundation to get you there. It's a top notch frame that a good LBS can easily epgrade for you.
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A conclusion is the place where you got tired of thinking. - S. Wright
Favorite rides in the stable: Indy Fab CJ Ti - Colnago MXL - S-Works Roubaix - Habanero Team Issue - Jamis Eclipse carbon/831