I'm jealous! Those rides (40 miler and the other) sound like a lot of fun. So far, the most fun I've had was the loop I posted earlier .. all 2 lane country roads, low traffic (except for a couple mile stretch). So much better than multiuse trails! Hopefully I can join in sometime. Here's some info:

I have it at the top of my to-do to stop procrastinating and get a computer. I decided to break up my HR monitor and computer into 2 separate units so I can take the HR monitor to the gym. I don't know how fast I go, but on that hilly ride, I averaged over 14mph (almost 15mph not taking into account however long it took me to stop to eat a granola bar at a convenience store). There's one section on that ride where you can go FAST... if the hills haven't worn you out by then. Hills are still hard for me though, so I'd be in the back too. My gearing is 36 small ring, and I don't know what the back is exactly, but I've got a shimano 10 speed rear.

Looks like family is visiting next weekend after my high school friend visits this weekend. The weekend before Thanksgiving is looking good for me. If you go out then, mind if I join? If it's Sunday, I might bring a friend who is also interested in getting in on some women's group rides if that's ok (she lives in DC closer to MD than I do).