Finally got what everyone had been saying for a long time; Riding a road bike in the dirt is about as good as it gets.
I have a Bianchi 1x9 for commuting, but wanted more gears and better equipment. So far, so good. Best deal on full 105(might be able to ebay/craigslist cheaper, but that takes time). The frame is heavy, but I hope to replace it next year. The wheels are okay(holding up to my 200+ pounds so far) but are going to be replaced with open pro/ultegras at the least. Certainly a fine way to get started on CX with the right balance or cheap and quality components.
note: thats it Topeka, KS in the background not philthy.