My First Open Road Bike Trip

You will be fine.  Take it easy, be aware.  Don't make this first open road trip a race. 

Be aware of your state's rules for bikes and follow them.  You should be treated as a motor vehicle and are expected to ride on the road and obey traffic signals. Actually, there was a whole thread on different tips on lane position etc when riding on the road..I'll see if I can find it.

Edit: Found it! http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=20688&posts=26#s

I try to ride on more residential roads or "main" residential roads.  I find that roads near parks or bike trails are more bike friendly.  Also, if you travel on roads and frequently see cyclists, try biking in those areas. Earlier in the morning is better.  Get out before everyone starts to run those Saturday errands.

Use hand signals to communicate with drivers. Make eye contact with drivers at intersections.

Man, I know I have more tips, but I can't think of anything...I totally blanked.  Enjoy your ride!

I need some advice to make me feel like i can really do it... Anything you've got about sidewalks, and cars and hills and speed and gear...just anything...Feel free to include personal antecdotes about your experiences.

- do not ride on sidewalks ... ever; it is far too dangerous at intersections.

- do not pass a car that is entering an intersection; even if the driver is not signalling he/she may turn without looking for cyclists

- you are a road vehicle and as such must obey the rules of the road, which includes stopping at stop signs and red lights even if there is nobody around.

- do not ride with headphones ... be fully aware of what is around you by using all your senses.

- if you are going for a long ride bring a few water bottles, maybe even one with a mix of gel and water or Gatorade.

- remember to bring spare tubes, a tire iron and a mini pump in case you flat.

- bring some money along in case you bonk and need to buy something to bring up your energy levels.

- if you don't have a cell phone, bring an extra quarter to call home.

- before leaving, let someone know where you are going and the time you expect to return, just to be safe.

You've already gotten lots of great advice.

I'd echo the getting out early to ride. You'll likely avoid a lot of traffic that way which will make your life easier, especially the first time.

Stay to the right when you can, but don't be afraid to take the road if you need it (potholes, etc.). Just remember that cars don't expect you to move around much so hold as striaght a line as possible and check anytime before you move out.

Shift into an easier gear as you approach a hill. If you're struggling to turn the pedals over it's already too late.  I made this mistake (again) the other day and got stuck mashing up a steep (but blessedly short) hill in my big ring--ouch!

Then just ride, baby, ride! Go Team Guinness!