After six months of deliberation... I finally went for it!

Congratulatons!! You'll love it for all the reasons you stated. I recently purchased the Damier NF in November this past year and ended up carrying it more this last three months then any of my other bag I own (weather was also a big factor) much to my surprise it's so easy and convenient to carry.
 
Thanks, everyone! I've only had it for about a day, and I highly recommend it to those who are contemplating purchasing it! Very good bag!

BTW, those of you who use it for school, do does it get bulky or cumbersome with the thin straps?