Finally broke down and bought my bike for the upcoming season (DON'T WANT TO SAY IT YET). Got a really good deal on a Trek 3700 that my LBS, they had a couple of early 2008 models and gave it to me at $150 off, full set up and 10% anything else I wanted, so I added the fenders and rack and got some lube and grease.
Took it out for a spin on my usual weekend ride and this is really a nice riding bike despite some of the reviews I've read. I think with a little TLC and maybe some studded tires come January it will serve me just fine...first commute test tomorrow.