About 5 years ago I was where you are now. I'm a woman and also taller than average (about 5' 8.5" -- height does have its advantages).
My best piece of advice: Stick with it. I call it the "brick by brick" philosophy. Keep at it for your health and enjoyment. I bet you'll be seeing big gains in a month or two, and it will just keep getting better from there.
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Specialized Roubaix Expert
Surly Long Haul Trucker