Yep. I don't think I'll buy a bike that doesn't have disc brakes... I might as well go hydraulic if I'm buying new and at full price. And, no way do I buy a bike that doesn't have fender mounts if it's going to be used as a commuter in the Pacific Northwest. Sounds like everything else is working out nicely on the bike.
I'm not sure how much you paid, but the bike is selling for $599 right now... it's a steal!