Cycling Web Ring

I joined a new Web Ring today - Cycling Knitter- I know but....
I bought a Touring bike 2 years ago with the intention of getting on the road so to speak. I used to ride frequently - but with kids and knitting etc - it just fell by the way side. So I took my tax return and bought a Trek Touring bike. That spring and summer I took a few rides in the neighborhood and surrounding area - just to get my bearings and to see how it felt. Well I loved it, but found it lonely - I needed a partner. I really needed more practice to feel safe too. Summer wound down and it got too cold to ride. I told myself that once spring came I would start riding to work everyday. I actually hated the thought of that because I'd have to ride in auto traffic and cross the highway at one point - I had big dreams. If you recall - I changed jobs last spring. There is no way I'm going to ride 45 miles to work everyday - and back!
So I've joined this ring to get myself motivated. I really want to ride. I want to get comfortable enough to ride with the local group during the summer. I want to be healthy. I want to do a real bike tour. I need a lot of practice before I get there. Am hoping this will help. The weather is not cooperating now (it's a whiteout outside) - but will soon I hope.
Wish me well!