Thanks, ladies, for all of your help.

My new road bike arrived a couple days ago and I have gotten shoes - the weather has indeed been unseasonably warm, and I hope to get some rides in before it gets too cold, and all of your suggestions have been helpful. Thanks a lot

Another question for anyone reading - I am taking a spinning class from January through May. Is spinning a good way to prepare myself for longer rides, or just endurance?

Thanks!