Well the ending to this story is that the bike was too small for me. I could never make it comfortable for more than a few miles no matter what saddle or stem or handlebars I tried. I guess because I have really long legs for my height, I need the next size up. Not sure why but it was too small, which is unfortunate because I know there are others that are 5'6" can ride 53 cm bikes. Oh well. Now I know!
I put the original stuff back on it, and put new kenda tires and new tubes (kept the panaracer paselas for my next bike), bar tape, cables, and housings on it. I took the rack off of it to keep for myself, and sold the bike for $320.
Too bad I had to let it go--it was a beautiful bike. I learned a lot from it and hopefully the next owner will enjoy it.