[QUOTE=Quickbeam]Judging by the extreme height to which you have the seat and stem adjusted, the frame appears to be considerably small for you. But you already mentioned that. It's not just the height of the bars but the top tube length, etc... I'd wager that a larger frame would be much more comfortable for you. [QUOTE]

I agree. Try riding a bigger frame for a few miles (maybe you can rent one from a shop?) I bet you'll feel more 'at home'.

When you are riding try the old test of looking down for the front hub; if the hub is way behind the handlebar, you need more forward extension. A longer stem will do this to a degree, but you probably need more top tube as well.

I wouldn't ignore the numb hands thing. not to make you paranoid but you should experiment and find a way to stop that before it develops into something serious. make sure you have a relaxed grip and bend your elbows. If you have and use bar ends you'll have less issues, I would think.

And so cool that you are hooked! keep it up and you'll be glad you did!
Ride Safe!