Hey guys, thank you all for the support and encouragement.

I just had a ride yesterday which was probably both my best and worst. Certainly it was the most fun. I've been searching for a club/group of riders for a while now but due to my erratic riding schedule and lack of much availability, I haven't hooked up with anyone as yet.

However, yesterday, a group of 4-5 riders overtook me while I was on the bike trail. So I decided to tag along. It was amazing how much easier it was to ride in a group of several people. I was riding at 16 mph without having to work at all (this was great since I was feeling a little sore this morning). Eventually, the makeshift group collapsed and only myself and another rider made it the full 15 mph to the end of the bike trail, but it was remarkably fun!

The way back, on the other hand, was torture since I'm still making lots of stupid rookie mistakes and hadn't purchased an Allen key yet (as velocipedio suggested day 1). I rode the whole way back with a saddle that popped out of position, had a fall when my feet remained stuck in my wellgo 705 (avoid at all cost) pedals, and ran into some bitter biker who was annoyed that I trailed him for 5 miles -- I guess not all people are friendly. I also seem to have strained a calf muscle in my enthusiasm yesterday.

All in all, though, I must say that my rides are getting better. I'm learning a little more each day, my behind is hurting less, and spend more and more time in that nirvana zone where I feel like I'm spinning really well and have a sensation of moving with the wind. That, my friends, is one of the best feelings in the world. Thanks again, and I'll be asking more questions when I get the time.