wow....ive said it before and ill say it again. i's love's you's guys's (clearly i can take the male flirting)

some thoughts i had to your suggestions:
gearing: im currently pushing 49x18, im most likely going to invest in a 43t-ish ring...and maayybe a freewheel (although prolly not)
brakes:yes...i plan on this i think im gonna try to pick up a shimano 105 brake (will that fit the surly fork?) and nashbar cx levers (unless preferably somebody can hook me up with this stuff, id be more than happy to reward you handsomly)
tushy:first:does butt balm really work? is it applied before or after the rash? second: im going to be using a selle italia turbo saddle...is it foolish for me to be relyign on such old tech...would i be better off investing in a flite etc...
spandex:i started using it when i built my first fixed gear last year(im a poet and didnt even know it), ive only got one full kit now, so im gonna invest in at least one more for the ride. as far as the pad goes...is underwear really a no no? ive been riding with boxers under the spandex the whole time, is this a mistake?
water:i already drink like a fish and i love gorp, but is there anything i should be eating now to begin prepping my body?

i may have left some out ...ill think about it again later...i cant tell you how much i appreciate your advice (esp boston and filtersweep). you guys rock

oh yes...training rides:ill be back in DC on monday...anybody want to do crazy miles with me?