That does help a bit, but it's odd, it doesn't have the typical lower upper tube on the frame most women's bikes have. (my wife is now yelling at me 'no it's not a women's bike' lol)
Either way it is turning out to be a lot more fun to ride. (almost a new bike at this point hehe) Next is the front derailers. After fighting with it not shifting correctly into 3rd and reading several books about bikes and looking closer the cage seems well worn.

so far:

new tubes
tires
shifter/brakes
handlebar wrappings
seat

now front derailers.