Thank you, I appreciate the cyclocross suggestion and I will do a little more research in that area. I would like to keep my budget below $1k. I'm getting the feeling the cyclocross might tip me over that mark, but I will do some additional looking.
I'm about 5'4" @ 130 lbs. I've been reading some great remarks on Vita, too--the dealership that sells Specialized near me is the one which is the furthest from me @ about an hour+ away. So I've been leaning toward Trek and Cannondale, much more convenient if I need maintenance, etc.
Thank you!