Congrats Jumpr! I remember the first time I rode into work (6mi) without stopping and catching my breath for 10 minutes half way. Its quite a feeling!
I've found this thread very helpful in the winter clothes dept. As a husband of a disabled wife, with 2 kids in school, money is tight. Its one of the reasons I ride. I save so much money by not needing a second car, insurance, fuel, maintenence etc. But I can't afford to go spend $3-500 on winter gear, it just won't happen. My old car only cost $500 LOL. So this has been very helpful. I am not looking forward to a winter of commuting instead of being scared I won't have the right clothes.
So, thanks everyone for the tips!