Thanks for all the suggestions! I prolly should have mentioned I'm trying to stay under $1k, but that's give or take a little.....

So far I've tested the Trek FX and the entry-level Trek road bike, the 1.1 (my fave LBS is a Trek dealer obviously) I also rode a ss District S and while it was SUPER fun and comfortable and fast, and I came home all excited about it--practically ready to buy it---my rational mind tells me I need gears(those darn hills right outside my front door....).

The 1.1 was my first time on a road bike--ever. Felt really good. The FX was immediately more comfortable, but I expect with a road bike fitted properly I might really like going that route.

There's lots of bike shops in the area so I will continue to ride as many different bikes as I can...