I was in a somewhat similar situation when I started cycling again a few years ago, and bought a hybrid off craigslist. As it turned out, it didn't fit me and was heavy, and I realized very quickly I really did want a road bike to be able to go further and faster. I sold the hybrid and got an aluminum road bike, and eventually replaced it with my current bike.
Give some serious thought to your "future self" and what you envision your riding habits to be a few months or a year. Lots of women in their 50's and 60's have no trouble whatsoever with a road bike frame. I also have a Surly which I bought for touring- it doesn't get enough use but I hope to ride it more. So far I've ridden it on one camping trip, some grocery runs and a few times when my road bike was in the shop or I just wanted a change. It's heavier and rides better with the panniers loaded up....
2016 Specialized Ruby Comp disc - Ruby Expert ti 155
2010 Surly Long Haul Trucker - Jett 143