Greetings from a fellow New Yorker
Hi Breana,
I'm curious, too, as to where in New York you are. I'm in (this year: very rainy) Niagara County and started riding for just about all of the same reasons that you mentioned (plus knee surgery that severely curtailed power walking/running). Love long rides but not interested in racing, either.
I may not post much, but I do read and have learned a whole lot from the friendly people who post to these forums. It's a great resource. 
Welcome!
Jane
Every human being must be viewed according to what it is good for; for none
of us, no not one, is perfect; and were we to love none who had
imperfections, this world would be a desert for our love.
--- Thomas Jefferson