Yelsel - thank you for all that information. I have actually been coveting a cyclocross or touring bike like the cross check or the aurora, which is why I haven't been thrilled with the idea of buying a new "cheap" bike that isn't really what I wanted. But now I can start thinking about nice bikes, because I found my commuter!!!

I just bought a Raleigh mixte off of Craigslist, and I'm so excited! I had pretty much given up hope of finding anything suitable used since I don't really know what I'm looking for, but I think this bike is just what I need. It has a new rear derailleur and tires, and I brought it into the LBS to confirm that it is ridable and in decent condition, though there are some small things I can fix up. The bike was cheap enough that I really can just leave it around (safely locked of course), but not have to stress over it getting stolen. I think I'll leave the current saddle on for now, though it would look good in a Brooks (yes, yes, then I can't just leave it around, and that kinda defeats the purpose, doesn't it ).

I'll definitely be taking the advice in this thread for how to keep my bike safe, thanks again!