Way to go, Cari! I've found with hill-climbing, especially if you're on a long and steady climb, just concentrating on tempo (and not the pain) can make all the difference. But of course, with the insanely steep ones, you just need to get up it, however you can.

Incidentally, I found a new hill (yep, insanely steep... ) to conquer on my ride up in 'da hills yesterday. This hill will be the gauge of my fitness for the year, I think. Owwie! Today, I'm soooo sore! It's all good....

Congrats again, Cari...and keep at it!
~BikeMomma