@William , thank you for your reply! Your weather sounds not unlike what I have here in the Michigan Upper Peninsula (just south of Canada) -- which doesn't surprise me too much, as this area has a very strong Finnish/Swedish/Norwegian heritage so it must have reminded some early immigrants of home.
Although I did start my plants early, I love your suggestions about growing "against a warm sunny wall or a greenhouse," and to cut the vines off once there are several fruits set on them. That's very good information for next year, if the ones I have now aren't able to cure properly. Thanks again!