How Long Between Bike Purchases?

@Geonz, you are wise my friend. I have had the habit in the past of "getting excited" about something and not really doing my research, then buying something that wasn't right for me (esp. given my history of very "wrong" bikes for me).

I did get to two bike shops, one that sells primarily Kona & Specialized. Based on our conversation (lasted about 45 minutes) he recommended perhaps a Kona Honky Inc. I looked at the Sutra and he said it might be too slow or "combersome" of a ride feeling. I didn't test drive anything today. I went to a shop that sells Jamis, Soma, Surly and another brand. I spoke to him for about an hour and actually learned that Cross bikes have drop bars, but apparently are a little more "relaxed" in riding position, and often have more room for things like racks, fenders, etc. vs. purely road bikes. This was intriguing to me and I'm learning a lot. He suggested the Surly Cross-Check, Jamis Satellite-Sport (entry level components), or the Soma Double-Cross which is disc brake ready.
I doubt I'd actually use a cyclo cross bike during a real cyclo-cross race, but more as a road/commuter/rough path type bike. Still doing research though.
Thanks for all your ideas.