If you're not aware, Nashbar sells cheap frames. And if you want to find quality 8 speed shifters on eBay, there are sometimes new old stock Shimano MC41 shifters for sale. I think going to 8 speed is slightly more rational sine 7 speed hubs are somewhat harder to find. I'd go with a Handspun rear wheel, Sram 11-32 cassette, KMC chain, MC41 shifters, Sugino Impel 150 crankset (42/34/24, don't forget the crank bolts), Shimano BB-UN54 bottom bracket (aluminium cup for the left side optional) and MKS Sylvan Touring pedals (or whatever you feel like, you can always put grip tape on them and Dimension reflectors).

Also, rear derailleurs don't have any "speeds" so you could use a 9 speed Deore rear derailleur. And you could add Shimano Acera brake levers if you're replacing shift/levers.