when I saw your thread title my first thought was "in THis heat?".....I still have family living in Indpls so I know what it's been like back there. I had one of those brutal centurys the end of August last year so I know what you mean about just wanting to call it quits - and yup....mine was 6 miles from home And that frigging climb I do every night after work. but like you I stuck it out and what a feeling of accomplishment!! You have come so far in such a short time - and you've done all that on a comfort bike........you are quite amazing.
I was also looking at your avatar and thinking........don't you need to post a newer one?.........show off your latest physique?? 
btw: I lived in Sheridan for 4 years - yup........I know pretty much where you were riding. :-D
Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand, strawberries in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming: "Yeah Baby! What a Ride!"