Here is a 44 tooth chainring with 104 bcd. You'll get better wearing on the parts to go larger in front.

http://harriscyclery.net/product/dim...r1915-qc49.htm

You already have the 15 tooth sprocket on order so start there.

I ride with the old minimum of 38x16 and find myself in 1 all the time. Here was today's ride:

http://www.mapmyride.com/us/woodstoc...route-51584600

but probably it's just being 57 old and not athletic in the least! But hey I get out and ride anyway!