Thank you everyone, your support is wonderful!

After it was snowing hard this morning, the sun came out at noon; roads dried out and I went for a ride. 20 miles, 38 degrees, but warmed up nicely to 42. Headwind of 5mph first half of the ride, wind at my back on the way home.

The new gearing 11/28 rear works great with the compact 50/34. Stem and fit are now perfect. I cruised up hills I was worried about with 3 gears to spare (of course the wind was at my back ) Even stood up on short hills... Whoohooo!!!

I LOVE this bike!!!!
Her name is Bella Blanca.

as for cadence... I'm paying closer attention, trying to stay above 70, even reached 105 on the downhill! Rode with a friend who has a nice spin, she will push me to 80... I have the confidence this old body can still ride!!