I LOVE going downhill. It's the best part of my ride everyday. Right before The Big Hill back to the road to my neighborhood, I get to ride down all the hills I struggled to get up at the beginning of my ride. I've gotten up to speeds of 35mph on them. It is wicked fun. I highly recommend it.

Traffic, however, is another story. I think trying to make yourself as visible as possible is the key. I don't wear cycling jerseys (can't really afford them anyway), so I always choose t-shirts that are very bright in color. I have reflective strips on my shoes, my helmet and my shorts. Even when the sun is still up enough that cars don't have their lights on but it is setting in the west, I turn on my rear and front blinkers, which are ultrabright. I always look behind me before make left turns and I always signal. I have a lot of respect for riders who follow the rules of the road (and thus make drivers respect us more). I ride on a 55mph, 70mph and 45mph road, as well as cross a 60mph major highway (at a light) during my 12 mile ride. The more you do it, the more fearless you become, within reason of course!

Good luck!