Welcome to TE, SueSue. Liza covered the shifting issue nicely. On my triple-chainring (3 rings up front), I usually stay in the middle one and shift the rear gears. On big climbs (not often chez moi) I'll go into the little front ring. When I'm feeling really strong, I'll go into the big front ring and jam, or some semblance thereof

There are several TE folks in Virginia.