Welcome to TE and back into the fun world of cycling. It sounds like you have done your homework and are prepared for your bicycle shopping trip. I agree that steel is a very sweet ride over aluminum so don't rule that out. With your height and proportions, I would be very careful about what size bike the shop recommends and don't let them sell you a bike to make a sale.
I would go ride a lot of bikes and see which one you like riding the most and feel the most comfortable on. Shopping is part of the fun and you will learn a lot as you compare one to the other. There are a lot of knowledgeable women on here that can help you with your decision.
__________________
"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." George Bernard Shaw
Luna Eclipse/Selle Italia Lady
Surly Pacer/Terry Butterfly
Quintana Roo Cd01/Koobi Stratus
1981 Schwinn Le Tour Tourist
Jamis Coda Femme