Thanks to everyone for their suggestions! I think I will definitely look at WSD bikes since I've got a very short torso.
Mimi, you hit it spot on about riding when we were kids! My body could do anything back then. Unfortunately, for the past year in the back of my mind this little voice kept saying "no pain, no gain", but I think I'd be a lot happier if I had the perfect bike for ME.
I have a big "test" to pass on Nov 17, and I think I'm going to buy myself a new bike if I pass! In the meantime I'm going to check out the local shops. I see that a couple of you like the Bianchi....any other favorites out there?
And any other 5'2" gals that can give me a ballpark size bike that you ride?