I finally settled on two bikes - A Specialized Crosstrail, and a Specialized Sirrus.
The Sirrus is easier to go fast, and a lot of fun --- I like to ride it!
Buttttttt, The Crosstrail is the real workhorse, and more comfortable to ride!
I did a lot of swapping, to get what I want - added Brooks and Selle AnAtomica, rear racks to accept grocery panniers and tail trunks, Specialized Overendz bar ends, lights, and Specialized Ergonomic grips, lower ratio cassette on the Sirrus, and clipless pedals on both.
I put Planet Bike Hardcore fenders on both, to keep me and the bikes cleaner and drier! They have been great!
I left the 28mm tires on the Sirrus, because it is a go faster bike, but swapped the tires to Schwalbe Marathon Supreme on the Crosstrail, 35 mm on the front for quicker and more precise steering, and a 40 on the back for comfort and load capacity.
The Crosstrail, with these tires, is surprisingly easy to go fast, and is easier to carry more stuff. A great all around bike!
The Sirrus is also great, in different ways.
If I could only keep one, I think it would be the Crosstrail!