Looking good! About a year ago I had a tire I needed replaced. I took it down to the local bike shop after getting it off fairly easily. Brought it home, pumped it up, then tried to put it back on the bike. Big mistake! Like an idiot I didn't realize it wouldn't fit while inflated, so I had to let some air out then try again!
Getting the back wheel back on can be tricky sometimes, I saw some of the professionals use latex gloves, so I grab them if I want to not get covered in oil or grease! Glad you got the bike sorted in the end.
Yeah, it slid in okay once I let some air out. With the air in though it was way too wide!