Aah, sublimeartistry. After reading your initial response it dawn upon me. I really had that light bulb moment. I now get how the fill works. It also minimizes that amount of traces (space as well) that has to be printed out on the PCB, essentially.
I still have issues with my boards, but that was a step in the right direction. This is my first PCB, so learning as I go along.
Thank you so much for your help. I really do appreciate it.