Hi Sara,
Lots of good info here on this forum. If you haven't already, take some time and read thru lots and lots of posts ... you will learn the most from reading other inquiries and their respective responses. I lurked here for about 6 months before ever posting ... and I have been riding since 89'.
If you have a nice friendly bike shop ... go in and find someone who is willing to listen to you and take the time to show you a few bikes and allow you to ride them.
Have fun!
__________________
-\Brian
18' Landshark Tandem - Custom
15' Wabi Special Single-Speed Road
06' Cannondale Six13 TeamOne
06' Cannondale Prophet 3 "Lefty"
92' Trek 5200