Way to go Roesslk!! It sounds as though you are getting it all put together. Don't let the hills get you down. I live in a hilly area, (not quite as hilly as Sparta) and I used to wish I could create a ride without hills. Now since riding routinely since March many of the hills are my favorite parts of my ride, (and yes I do mean going up not riding down). As you get into better shape and begin to challange the hills rather than just survive them they become fun. Gearing up and standing in the pedals is a good thing too!
Anyway, congrats and keep it going!!!