The Cross Check is the ultimate blank slate of commuter bikes. It's so easy to make it exactly what you want it to be, that's a nice build.
It's so versatile in fact that I re-purpose mine twice a year. I have a very different for set up for winter than I do for summer. I love it both ways. Welcome to the club, I love my cross check dearly, I bet you will love yours too.
Enjoy! Go ride the wheels off that thing now!