When I had my road bike made, they put an extension on the stem because I needed to be about 1" more upright. It made all the difference in the world.

If you have to go to a big cushy seat, please don't cover it with fake fur <grin>.

Also, I don't think the previous poster meant any harm. It's very unusual for a woman to know as much as you seem to know about bikes. I don't even approach it. I rely on my LBS to work on my bikes because I don't have the time, nor inclination to learn. I do basic maintenance, but the big stuff goes to the bike shop.