Congrats, HiYo!
With all the progress you've made, my suggestion is to not focus on the lowlights. Just keep pedaling and the speed/breathing/cadence will take care of themselves. If you're really mussed about them, do some weekend riding or add some sprints to the commute.
As to the laptop, get a good basket or rack and then strap the laptop to the carrier. I've put my laptop in a nylon (padded) carrying case and then strapped it onto a rack. So long as you don't let the bike fall over, it's fine. Alternately get a full backpack and put the laptop in there - unless you fall the computer'll be fine.
Respect & kudos for your achievements! Keep on pedaling.
Last edited by FarHorizon; 10-12-05 at 10:45 AM.
Reason: grammar