Fuji,

Welcome! It sounds like you're doing just great! Keep up the good work! I'm sure there are lots of other women in your area with whom you can ride. There are a number of Southern Cal ladies on the forum. They can give you some advice, I'm sure. Group riding is a lot of fun.

I took a look at your blog. Get used to the funny tan! Most of us treat it as a badge of honor (althoug with the weird tan lines we get from cycling gloves).

Have and safe riding!