Driving to Work

New To The System

2012-01-31T21:34:00.004-05:00

I got a seat on the train pretty close to the front. I had a nice lady sit next to me. She seemed to be really polite. She thanked people and was courteous to the conductor.

I think she may have been new to the system.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:31
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.49
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

2012-01-30T14:58:00.002-05:00

For a Monday, I was pretty wide awake and calm. I had some pretty good sleep throughout the night, even battled bad people in my nightmares...but my mind got a good reset.

After some breakfast tea and a blueberry filled pastry, I was good to go. GTG, as they say...somewhere.

Sunny to start, but once I hit the pavement in Boston the snow started to come down and it got steady as I walked into the office door.

I saw the flowers at the feet of the Kevin White statue.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, then snow. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.49 - oof.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Out Of Phase

2012-01-27T15:59:00.002-05:00

The train stopped all weird this morning. I thought it was the conductor's issue at first but it turned out that the engineer had stopped too fast.

I sat in a odd place in the car...the middle.

I didn't know if I should go forwards or backwards to exit the train. I went forward. It worked out for me.

Blargh! Have a good weekend.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Rainy, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.49
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Sorta Sick

2012-01-26T11:55:00.002-05:00

Everybody in my house is sick so it was just a matter of time until I got something.

It's not a bad cold. It still feels like I am fighting it and I could be 100% better tomorrow. This morning, I was still feeling a little achy, a little run down.

I slept a little bit on the train. I sat down, made sure the conductor saw my pass, and then closed my eyes. Drifting away a little bit from consciousness was good. More rest would be even better.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:55
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:07
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Charlie Is His Name

2012-01-25T11:47:00.002-05:00

The guy who holds two cups out and asks for change is named Charlie. Some guy came right up to him and said, "Here you go, Charlie."

Charlie was very happy to see the crumpled dollar bill. "Thank you!" he cried out in a sweet voice.

People kept walking. Charlie asked for more change.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Foggy Roads To Drive Down

2012-01-24T07:07:00.002-05:00

High temperatures and rain have turned snow into fog. I had to fill up the gas tank.
The drive to both stations (gas and train) were a little hazy.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:25
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: High 50s. Foggy!
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Stealing A Victory

2012-01-23T10:21:00.001-05:00

People seemed to be happier this Monday morning. I apply it to the Patriots stealing a win last night.

Train was on time. The warmer temperature was melting this snow.

Lots of smiles on the people's faces.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: High 30s, maybe a little rain in Boston.
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

2 Inches To Shovel

2012-01-20T11:32:00.002-05:00

We woke up to a nice coating of snow. Light fluffy stuff...not too bad. I cleaned off both cars and cleared the stairs and the driveway. I took the later train and sat in the 3 person seat...got squeezed in the middle.

Walked through the snow and wind to get to the office. The sun was shining and was blinding me. Winter is back, people.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:55
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:07
Weather as I call it: Sunny, coldish
Shady Gas Price: $3.43 Poop.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Same Crowd

2012-01-19T10:55:00.003-05:00

I took a later train this morning. Too much partying with the family, I guess.

There was an accident at the 495/3 interchange. It looked like the road crews were towing away the vehicle when I got there, but there was a state police car with its lights own that blocked a lane of traffic. It added a few minutes to my drive but I didn't miss the train.

No matter the train, it's the same crowd of people at the station. I see them on the train ride home - or they take the early train with me too.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:53
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:06
Weather as I call it: Cold, sunnyish
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Coffee Wars

2012-01-18T08:01:00.003-05:00

I went to Anderson Woburn this morning. I am meeting my family for my daughter's birthday tonight or at least that is the plan. Traffic on 93 South started to slow down in Wilmington...which only affected my progress a little bit since I got off the highway in Woburn.

At North Station, there were people from Starbucks handing out free sample cups of coffee. The set up was two people per corner - one handing out flyers and the other with a large canister strapped to his back. In his hand, he had a tap hose...and he was dispensing coffee to people who walked by.

I avoided them for two reasons. 1. The wind was blowing so hard and was sustaining for many minutes at a time that I felt like my cup would blow away and the coffee would spill all over me.

The other reason was the medium Dunkin' Donuts coffee cup in my right hand filled with black coffee.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:18
Departure Time From Train Station 7:10
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Windy, Sunny
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Wow We Have Snow

2012-01-17T15:03:00.002-05:00

I haven't had to brush snow off the car since....October.

There wasn't much though. I brushed an inch off of the car and shoveled the stairs and the porch.

The roads were fine. The train station parking lot was plowed-ish. I put money in an envelope and stuck it in the slot.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, snow on the ground, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Closer to Warmth

2012-01-16T12:09:00.002-05:00

It's a holiday but I still have to work. If that's one thing about working on a holiday, it's the lack of traffic and commute hang ups.

The only issue was the temperature. It was around 3°F at the house. I let the car warm up for 15 minutes before I left. The car was warm but not hot. It seemed like the engine never really got that hot.

The walk from North Station to the office was sorta brutal. I counted the steps knowing that each one was one closer to the door and warmth.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:36
Departure Time From Train Station 6:58
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cold, sunny
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Blue Salt

2012-01-13T13:37:00.002-05:00

The guys at the train station were saying it was icy on the platform and were spreading the blue salt around.

A woman who doesn't ride the train a lot sat next to me. I could tell because she paid for a round trip ticket and had to search for change to pay for it.

The walk was wet again. I have my umbrella with me so I got through it without too much water absorption.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Rainy, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Actually Drove To Work Today

2012-01-12T13:11:00.002-05:00

I faced light snow, rain, and wind but drove all the way to Boston today. I parked in the uncovered lots in the Seaport district. 13 bucks all day. Can't be beat.

Well, the walk to the office could be a little shorter. The wind and the rain was pretty bad.

The wonderful thing was that the wind was at my back for most of the walk.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:16
Departure Time From Train Station N/A
Arrival Time at North Station: N/A
Weather as I call it: Snowy/Rainy/Windy
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Exotic Auto Body

2012-01-11T12:55:00.000-05:00

There's a billboard that I can see from the train as we ride along the rails towards North Station. It can be seen if you are driving southbound towards the O'Neill tunnel on 93.

Anyway, it is an advertisement for an auto body shop and I think it has the word exotic in its name.

Usually only pets and dancers get described that way...

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Departure Time From Home: 6:28
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny-ish, cool
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Take A Knee

2012-01-10T08:10:00.002-05:00

When I got to Boston this morning, it appeared that the city got some snow before the sunrise. There was a small coating of snow here and there but the really tricky parts were the icy patches. I felt them under my feet from time to time in my walk.

Then, at the crossing of Hanover St. at Congress St., some dude slipped and took a knee. He recovered ok but I crossed the street very careful as to not replicate his fall.

The rest of the walk was ice free. The building owners put down some salt and the sidewalks were safe.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cold, 20s, manageable
Shady Gas Price: $3.37 - wha' happened?
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

I Couldn't Get The Cold Out Of My Bones

2012-01-09T13:11:00.002-05:00

Man, I walked to the train platform and I couldn't shake the cold out of my bones. It was cold car ride and a cold wait for the train. I was hoping that the train would be incredibly warm, but it wasn't. I felt a little better on the walk to work from North Station, but it was still cold. I think if I get some rest and change my frame of mind to expect cold tomorrow morning, I will feel better.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cold-ish, 10s
Shady Gas Price: $3.33
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

King Of The Homeless

2012-01-06T08:36:00.002-05:00

Right around Haymarket, this guy started handing out money to all the regular folk who hang out and ask for change. One regular is a guy actually calls out, "Change?" with a cup in each hand. The guy gave him the coins that were in his pocket.

The second regular is the guy who wishes everyone a good day. Well, if you are a man then it's a good day...if you are a woman, it's a lovely day.

Just once, I want to have a lovely day.

The guy handed the #2 regular a dollar bill and said something about the Bruins.

The third regular is Mr. Spare Change Newspaper...and he was leaving his shift. The guy said hello to him.

I am telling ya, today...this guy was the king of the homeless.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:30
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, a little warmer. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Squeeze Me A Little Tighter

2012-01-05T15:30:00.002-05:00

I took an earlier train today so I could be on time for an 8 o'clock meeting. It was pretty dark when I got to the station.

I got on the train and sat in a two seater. In a few stops, a big and tall man sat next to me. It was pretty uncomfortable for a while since he pinned me to the window.

I shifted a bit and it got a little better, but he was big and was reading a book...which didn't make for much elbow room.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:02
Departure Time From Train Station 6:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:06
Weather as I call it: Dark, 20s
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: Nah

Wear Your Hat

2012-01-04T12:33:00.002-05:00

I brought my hat this morning. I learned that my ears can't take the chill like they once did. I was not doing well on the evening walk to the station so I made sure to get that hat in my jacket and wear it even though it messed up my hair.

Other than the hat business, the commute was fairly ordinary and went smoothly. I was warmer so the whole process was better.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Mostly sunny and cold.
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Check That Engine Before You Wreck That Engine

2012-01-03T13:24:00.003-05:00

Cold one this morning and my check engine light is back on. I should really get it looked at but since it was turning on and off, I thought that maybe it would shut off again. No such luck so far. If I could go back off in March, I would appreciate that because I could get an inspection sticker.

Meh - we'll see. I am probably endangering myself and everyone around me. Happy New Year.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:38
Departure Time From Train Station 7:00
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cold, some sun.
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Last Post of 2011

2011-12-30T08:03:00.003-05:00

2012 will be a better year, right? We can't have 5 bad years in a row, right?

I guess it hasn't been a horrible year, but I would like to feel like I had a good year on the 30th of December in 2012.

We'll see. Time is what you make it. I am going to give it a go in 2012.

Good luck to you. May your driving to work be smooth in the next year.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:38
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.25
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

Winter For Never

2011-12-29T08:30:00.002-05:00

We used to say in our office that it was Winter Forever last year. This year, it's Winter For Never. We had a cold one this morning but it has been pretty mild this December. I think January should stay the same.

I have this later train schedule down. Too bad I will going back to the typical train next week.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:58
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:06
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cold, 20s
Shady Gas Price: $3.25
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Just Joking About 20 Dollars of Gas

2011-12-28T09:23:00.002-05:00

I like this later train business...the extra sleep is nice especially if you have been out with friends the night before.

I left the house earlier than yesterday and was able to pump in 20 bucks of gas before I got to the train...that should keep me going for the next three miles.

Joking.

I got a little coffee using my li'l gift card and was in the door before 8:20.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:58
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:05
Weather as I call it: Some sun - 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.25
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Threw The Bums A Dime In Your Prime

2011-12-27T08:29:00.003-05:00

Yay - it's back to work time for me. I slept in later and took the 7:26 train out of N. Billerica.

It was pretty quiet and there weren't as many people on the train.

There was one hangup at Wilmington. We had to wait for the Haverhill train to get through the station. The wait added a few minutes to the ride.

The walk was good - I think I hit all the lights right and was able to cross the streets with no delay. I gave a buck to the homeless guy who wishes me a good day everyday. It's my two year anniversary at this job and it seems like I have more good days than bad days.

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Departure Time From Home: 7:09
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:09
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy
Shady Gas Price: $3.25
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Happy For Some Time Off

2011-12-16T15:15:00.002-05:00

It will be nice to have some time off next week - to shop - to sleep - to not drive to work.

Hey ev'rybod. Have a great week next week. I will be back after Christmas to blog again.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Some sun, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.25
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Sending Christmas Cards

2011-12-15T13:54:00.003-05:00

I took a later train to work today. It was nice to sleep in a little bit and ease my way into work.

I had to mail all the Christmas cards today. I bought stamps and affixed them to all 30 envelopes right there at the Milk St. office.

Then the building management of our office had breakfast and I ate muffins and little paninis. Delicious.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:50
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:08
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.25
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Lost ID

2011-12-14T10:54:00.002-05:00

On the way to Boston, some dude lost his photo ID. The conductor shouted something weird like, "the last guy who got on at West Medford may want to check to see if he has his ID".

Then the other conductor used the intercom and called the guy by his name. He said he had his ID and he should see either conductor when they stopped at N. Station.

It must be interesting to have your full name being called over the intercom on the train that early in the morning.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.25
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Bells Are Ringing

2011-12-13T15:38:00.003-05:00

It's been colder this week but with the proper coat and the right attitude, it has been a fine experience in the morning.

When we arrived at Wedgemere station today, there was a loud bell ringing in the train. They had to check the engine and we were delayed for 8 minutes at the station.

Once we got started again, we didn't have any more trouble.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:48
Weather as I call it: Cold, partly sunny.
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Flipping Blue Seats

2011-12-07T10:11:00.003-05:00

The rain was coming down hard when I woke up this morning. I was hoping that it would die down before I stepped out the door and it did.

The roads were wet but there was no rain to drive through to get to the station.

Blue seated car for the third day in a row. I almost flipped some other seats to face forward but I just sat in my regular seat.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Rain-ish. 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

2011-12-06T08:06:00.002-05:00

Dark mornings make for a quiet ride to the train station. Everybody seems to be slow moving and cautious.

I had to sit in the blue seated car again. The seat that I changed direction on what still in place...so I sat down again.

The walk was good. We have had some great weather in terms of temperature. The rain held off too.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Winter Fog

2011-12-05T12:51:00.002-05:00

Usually it's foggy in the summer time when cool nights bring foggy conditions to the warm mornings.

This morning, there was fog all around. Leaving the house was an adventure...

In all the low lying areas on my commute, there was thick fog covering everything.

Very stealthy.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Foggy, then sunny.
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Blue Seats

2011-12-02T12:38:00.002-05:00

Those commuter rail cars with the blue seats that just hold two people each have to go. They are all too small. I do like that I know how to make them face the opposite direction.

I did that this morning and was able to face the seat in the direction that the train was moving.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cold, 20s when I left the house.
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Remember It's December

2011-12-01T12:31:00.000-05:00

I had a early meeting and I also had to make change for the old parking machine so I got up a half hour before I usually do. I walked out of the house and I was hit with a big gust of wind.

I went to the gas station mart down the street from the train station. There are some scary characters hanging out in the store. There's guys playing Keno and dudes just watching you in the parking lot.

I got a bottled water which broke my 10 dollar bill so that I had enough singles for the slot.

Once I was on the train, I realized that I didn't have my December pass. I pushed the pass into the top buckle of the seat to cover up the month. I got away with it.

I bought a ticket for the ride back though.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:02
Departure Time From Train Station 6:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:08
Weather as I call it: Dark. Colder. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.28
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

What A Warm November

2011-11-30T11:04:00.002-05:00

We had such a warm November that I am afraid that our winter will be bad. You never know. Maybe the warm weather will carry over. It would be nice not to shovel eight feet of snow this year.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: 40s Some clouds
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

It's Going To Be A Happy Day Today

2011-11-29T10:22:00.002-05:00

My daughter told me that today was going to be a happy day. She's two and says some interesting things from time to time.

I am confident she is right. She said it in a matter of fact tone. I have to believe she knows what she's talking about.

Look at that gas price. That's something to be happy about.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Warm again, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.29
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

And It's Good To Be Back

2011-11-28T10:19:00.002-05:00

After a week off, I got back to driving to work. What a wonderful day. The temps can't be beat for this time of year.

I settled back in nicely. Everything was on time. The walk to work was a little slower than normal. I think the turkey dinner was weighing me down.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Warm, high 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.35
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Friday Before Vacation

2011-11-18T12:44:00.003-05:00

I love Thanksgiving. I love it. That's why I am taking all of next week off. I don't want to have to deal with a slow work week and add to the agony of waiting for that 4 day weekend. Make it a 9 day week for me. Thanks. Have fun on the roads and on the sidewalks and on the trains because I will be trying to sleep in.

Mahalo.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy...cold. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Sorry If I Snored

2011-11-17T16:52:00.004-05:00

I made a plan to sleep on the train. I sat in the middle of the car in a two seater and I just closed my eyes. The next thing you know, the train was pulling into North Station.

Sorry if I snored.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:36
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.337
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: I didn't notice

Vanilla

2011-11-16T11:49:00.002-05:00

I got up and ate a bagel for breakfast. The ride to the train station parking lot was issue free. The train came on time and I got on behind some pretty old people who were talking loudly to each other.

I had to wait until Winchester before someone would sit next to me. I was looking pretty ugly today, I guess.

Thankfully it wasn't wide legged sitting guy. He annoys me.

The walk to the office was good too. The temps are still pretty warm even if the sun didn't make an appearance.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

There Are Lots Of People Driving

2011-11-15T10:58:00.002-05:00

I got to the Drum Hill intersection and the line of cars was huge. Hey, wha' happened?

When the light turned green, the cars would crawl through. I think I waited 3 light changes before I made it out.

It seemed like people didn't get that they could use more than one lane to get to where they were going. In most cases, Route 3 south was their final destination.

Too many early in the morning drivers.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Warm November Rain

2011-11-14T10:55:00.001-05:00

There might have been snow in October but November is busting out all over. It's been pretty mild in the mornings.

50s in the morning is a good thing.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Warm, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

This One Goes To Eleven Eleven Eleven

2011-11-11T08:46:00.002-05:00

I know that everyone should be celebrating Veterans Day...but take a few seconds to celebrate Nigel Tufnel day too.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Not too bad
Shady Gas Price: #3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

I Think He Left His Lights On

2011-11-10T10:49:00.002-05:00

When I was walking to the office from North Station, I noticed a car parked in one of those open lots had its lights on. Boo.

I don't think they were going to fade out anytime soon.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:30
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.37
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Usually Mechanical Problems Happen In The Cold

2011-11-09T09:34:00.002-05:00

Ok so I left the house at 6:33A and I thought I was going to be early.

Wrong!

I got to the 495/3 interchange and there was traffic traffic traffic...silly traffic too.

Luckily, I arrived at the train station just a few minutes later than usual. I thought it would matter.

Wrong!

The train was delayed because of mechanical problems. I don't know which train I took but it came to the station about 12 minutes late. Not too bad when the scrolling information board stated it was going to be more like 25 to 30 minutes.

The train was a little slow at Wilmington but all and all...not too bad.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33 AM
Departure Time From Train Station 7:12 AM
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:02 AM
Weather as I call it: Sunny, warm, high 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.39
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3.5
Feared for my life: No

Nice To See Things

2011-11-08T15:55:00.003-05:00

I am still getting used to the sun being up when I am driving to work. It used to be dark and I didn't have to battle getting blinded by the sun on Route 3 and beyond.

Beyond getting blinded, it is nice to see things like the street and people walking along the streets.

Sights for sore eyes.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, warmer...high 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.39
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

More Trash For You Today

2011-11-07T15:46:00.004-05:00

I brought the trash to the curb this morning. We didn't get any trash pick up last Monday because the trucks couldn't get down our street. There was a large tree that was bent over the road. Smaller vehicles like my SUV could get through but a large garbage truck would not be able to pass under the newly made tree bridge.

With two barrels at the end of the driveway, I drove away with some frosted side windows.

There was a little traffic build up on Route 3. I am glad I didn't have to deal with the bulk of it since my exit got me out of that mess before it had me in its clutches.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:35
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cold, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.39
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

School In July

2011-11-04T14:31:00.001-04:00

I got up knowing that life at home would be back to normal. There was school today as opposed to the last 4 days where there wasn't any.

If we get any snow days this year, the kids will be going to school in July.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cold, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Coffee Is All Right

2011-11-03T08:40:00.003-04:00

I got up and paid some bills since I need electricity to do that nowadays. I also made a pot of coffee and brought a travel mug of it with me.

Gaining momentum with every swig, I pounded it all down before I got on the train.

I felt pretty wide awake on the train. I shared a three seater with just one other person.

I greeted the homeless people with a smile and good morning. Coffee is all right.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cold, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Electricity Will Light The Way

2011-11-02T08:24:00.001-04:00

The power came back on at my house last night so I woke up with heat and electric light and sewage that could be pumped out of my house. What times we live in.

Everything else was tolerable. I felt warm at the train station.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cold, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

The World Is A Cold Dark Place

2011-11-01T10:57:00.003-04:00

The world is a cold dark place. No lights for miles. Strange people walking in front of me while I drove to the train station. No accidents.

I woke up early because I was sick of the cold. I took the second train out of Lowell.

Please National Grid, please fix the lines.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:00
Departure Time From Train Station 6:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:05
Weather as I call it: Cold, Dark, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Halloween But All Tricks

2011-10-31T10:52:00.002-04:00

The freak winter storm we had on Saturday took away all of my electricity. I woke up to a cold house and no lights.

With no distractions like TV or internet, I left the house earlier than normal. I thought I would stop by the li'l Starbucks in N. Billerica to get a coffee.

They were closed. No power. NO COFFEE.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:25
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Clear, cold, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Costume Friday

2011-10-28T10:27:00.002-04:00

We have a Halloween party at the office today. I am not in costume but I did bring beer in a briefcase. I guess a bit of disguise.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, cold
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Rain is pain when you miss your train

2011-10-27T07:32:00.004-04:00

So yeah, I did leave the house a little later than usual but not tremendously late.

Once I got on to the highway, I knew it was going to be a tight squeeze.

Cars merging on and off 495 were the issue. Big trucks made things worse.

I got to the train station right in time to watch it pull into the station. I wasn't going to catch this one.

So I went to Starbucks and bought a coffee to make things better.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:08
Weather as I call it: Rain
Shady Gas Price: $3.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 5
Feared for my life: No

3 Stops Before Work

2011-10-26T09:20:00.002-04:00

I got off the train and I needed to go to CVS. There is a new location near North Station. Super convenient.

I stopped at Clover Food Labs and got their oatmeal with fruit. It had lots of pears and it was delicious.

I stopped again to avoid the small raindrops falling from the sky...and then I choose to move quickly into the building.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:31
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, cold, some rain
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Parking Close

2011-10-25T08:48:00.002-04:00

I parked near the payment "machine" since I knew I was going to an event at night and would not need to drive fast out of the parking lot to avoid the rush. I am always amazed at the small amount of cars in the parking lot at 10PM. Nobody stays out any more.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunnyish, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Sam Wasn't Happy

2011-10-24T08:22:00.002-04:00

So the morning started ok. I got to the station in plenty of time even though there was a flatbed truck doing his very best to slow everyone down.

As I was walking up to the station, the purple warning lights started to chime and blink. There was a train approaching. It turned out to be the inbound train so I didn't have to run for it. Some other people did and crossed the tracks a little too close for the engineer's comfort. He blasted his horn as hard as he could and barreled through the station at 60 miles per hour.

Once I got on the inbound train, things were good until Winchester when li'l Sam got on and cried for the rest of the trip. I think he may have fallen. There were bad conductor jokes and band-aids involved. It made for a loud train ride.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:35
Departure Time From Train Station 7:00
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Clear but colder, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $3.47
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3.5
Feared for my life: No

Rain May Be In The Forecast

2011-10-19T11:21:00.002-04:00

...but I am liking that today is my Friday. Yeah, I am taking two days off this week.

I have some stuff planned with the family and I am looking forward to getting some things done around the house and in the yard.

Have fun commuting for the rest of the week.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7;45
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, rain coming.
Shady Gas Price: $3.55
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Every Day There Is More To See

2011-10-18T08:27:00.002-04:00

The Charles River park that is on the other side of the Zakim Bridge is starting to look more like a park and less like rubble.

The grass is really green. I hear that grass grows best in the fall.

Drive, Train Ride, and Walk were all good. I wore my jacket which was nice.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cool
Shady Gas Price: $3.53
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

I Miscalculated The Temperature

2011-10-17T08:20:00.002-04:00

I didn't put on a jacket this morning. I wish I had. It was bearable but waiting for the train would have been a little more comfortable with a jacket.

I have been colder. There are days in the winter where the wind is blowing and my body is shaking because it's so cold.

Today I should have worn a jacket. Tomorrow I will.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cool, jacket weather
Shady Gas Price: $3.53
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Hey Ho Rain Again

2011-10-14T12:50:00.002-04:00

Yeah, there was more rain today. It really started to come down when I was leaving the house and then it stopped.

While waiting for the train, there was a break. I didn't have to stand there getting soaked.

The walk was good and dry. I had some issues with the bottom of my pants but overall much drier and more comfortable than yesterday.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:35
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Rainy-ish. 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Wash Out

2011-10-13T11:35:00.002-04:00

The rain was coming down this morning. I don't remember having to use my umbrella so much last year.

It would rain during different points in the day but lately it seems to have been coming down in buckets during the morning commute.

The bottom of my pants and my shoes were soaked when I walked in this morning. Yuck.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Rainy. 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Fried Chicken and Beer

2011-10-12T10:21:00.002-04:00

I was running ahead of schedule today. I had plenty of time for my breakfast and packing a lunch. I had dollar bills y'all for the parking fee. It's was a good morning from an everything-lining-up-and-going-as-planned-perspective.

I read the whole article in the Globe this morning about how the Sox pitchers were eating KFC and drinking beer and playing video games in the clubhouse while the rest of the team was losing out on the field.

It's a shame, really...but when you think you can do whatever you want...people choose the easy, fun route rather than the tough, just route.

And Jason Varitek doesn't want reporters calling him at home.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:31
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, cool, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Loose Change Bad Checks Anything

2011-10-11T11:49:00.002-04:00

I had to search around for some change to make up 2 dollars of my four dollar parking fee.

With 6 quarters and 5 dimes, I was able to feed the slot. I pray the fee collectors can add.

The train was filled with people again and it seemed like a typical morning.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Quiet Car

2011-10-10T10:51:00.000-04:00

I think every car on the train was the quiet car. There weren't many people on the train and it was silent.

I used to like to work on Columbus day when I was driving. Taking the train, it's sad. You feel like everyone else is in on the joke and you're being laughed at.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:36
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cool
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

2011-10-07T13:28:00.002-04:00

Another cold morning but above freezing is tolerable to this old New Englander. Give me some temps that are below freezing and some wind that blows and some blinding snow and I might complain a little.

These mornings are welcome. There wasn't any frost on my window to scrape off. I will take it.

A work filled week - finally coming to a close. Yay. See you on Monday.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cold, but sunny. 35°F
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

The Sketchy Characters

2011-10-06T08:36:00.002-04:00

There were a good number of sketchy characters on street corners this morning on the walk to work. Usually it's just me staring at people as they walk by, but today I was joined with older gentlemen in trench coats standing around for whatever reason looking at people as they walk by. I think I saw three people who fit that description.

Was there a national holiday for our tribe that I missed?

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:36
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny but cold. 38°F
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Home Is Wherever I'm With You

2011-10-05T08:23:00.002-04:00

Yes, after the rain - the sun pours out of the sky. The leaves are starting to show their color. The air is crisp and I get to wear my favorite jacket.

Ah New England - your winters are awful. We know that. I have lived places where the winters are not that bad so I know it can be better.

But your autumns, your autumns make it worth it. It is the pay off and it is the best time of the year.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny, windy, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Scotch N' Sirloin

2011-10-04T15:10:00.002-04:00

The rain was coming down this morning and there were reports of flooding all around the North Shore. None of my commuting was affected. My walk from North Station to the office was nice.

I have noticed it in the past but this is the first time I have discussed on the ol' blog. There is an old sign for a restaurant called the Scotch N' Sirloin. I think it closed a while ago but the sign remains. If the sign could talk, would it speak of the bygone era of men eating steak and drinking scotch on a regular basis driving on the elevated Central Artery in Boston?

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Rainy then not so much
Shady Gas Price: $3.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3 - rain stinks
Feared for my life: No

Hey She Is Back

2011-10-03T07:09:00.001-04:00

The woman who ride on the train with me for many months is back.
She still has her boy and stroller in tow...but now she also had a little girl. Sweet!
------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:30
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:44
Weather as I call it: Cloudy
Shady Gas Price: $3.49
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Sunburned Face

2011-09-30T15:07:00.002-04:00

It looked as if someone who got on at Woburn/Anderson enjoyed the sun in these last gasps of good weather.

She came on the train and her red face startled me a little bit. I think she has enough vitamin D stored on her forehead to last until the first green shoots poke through the snow next spring.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, mild, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.49
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Overturned Trucks In The Rain

2011-09-29T15:17:00.002-04:00

After a laugher of a Red Sox game and season, it was an appropriate rainy morning. There was a bad accident on 495 according to the traffic guy. My route wasn't affected too badly.

I got to the train station in time and everything went smoothly. The conductor kept reminding everyone that October would be upon us next week.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:35
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Rainy, 60°
Shady Gas Price: $3.49
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Gasoline and Coffee

2011-09-28T13:01:00.002-04:00

My gas light was on and I had to fill up. I thought I would be able to take the same train I always do with a little side trip to the ol' gas station, but no.

The gas station was filled up with cars going to DD instead of getting gas so I had to wait for some goofballs to move.

I missed the train by that much.

I went and got some coffee cuz that's what I like to do in the morning if I have extra time.

I got my li'l coffee from SBucks and proceeded to spill a good portion of it on my shirt sleeve and pants and a first degree burn on my hand.

It's a beautiful morning.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 7:27
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:06
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.55
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: Nah

Promised Land Morning

2011-09-27T09:30:00.002-04:00

I saw a friend last night who lives in Iceland and was visiting for a short time. He calls New England the promised land because someone he met in L.A. (a successful doctor living in a mansion overlooking the Pacific ocean) gave this place that name.

Do we love our home land more than other people? I am tied to tradition and ritual certainly and I love this place, but I am just one guy. I like hearing that other people have the same feeling but I can see the other side of the conversation too.

I am not looking forward to winter....

Great drive/ride/walk to work today.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunny. Cooler, 60°F
Shady Gas Price: $3.55
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

Summer In Fall

2011-09-26T08:37:00.002-04:00

So Autumn began last week but the temperatures haven't reacted to the calendar.

It was in the mid-60s when I left the house today. I'm not complaining. The best part of an extended summer is a shorter winter...one would hope.

The train ride was fine. Wide-leg sitting guy sat next to me but we co-existed just fine.

The parks around the train station are starting to come together. I saw some guys welding the bridge together that links the Cambridge/Charlestown parks. I think it's going to look pretty good once everything is done.

And the kids will get to "shred ahead"... I am pretty sure.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, humid, mid-60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.59
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

London Town

2011-09-13T05:07:00.000-04:00

I'd like to say I drove to the train station, took the train, and walked to work but I am in London and working in the HQ this week.

I walked the ancient blocks to the offices today. Somebody stopped to ask me if I knew where a particular school was. I cheerfully told her I did not and that I was a visitor in this fair city.

It's sunny here today and it's the first time I've seen the big star in a while.

Cheers!

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: N/A
Departure Time From Train Station N/A
Arrival Time at North Station: N/A
Weather as I call it: N/A
Shady Gas Price: N/A
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

Train Car Smells

2011-08-31T10:29:00.002-04:00

I left the house early today so I could get some change from the ol' machine in the train station so I could pay for parking. Parking is 4 dollars a day and when all you have is 10s and 5s, you need to find somewhere that will give you change.

I like the machine. There's no small talk needed with the machine.

Sometimes there is an issue with the bill and you have to insert it a number of times but for the most part, it suits my needs.

I got the change for a 10 dollar bill. I got 10 golden coins and I put four of them in the slot that corresponded with my parking space.

Once I got on the train, there was a strong smell of urine. Somebody had a accident on the train.

Yuck. It got better as time went on - as more people got on bringing their own scents, it drowned out the urine smell.

The last three stops were pleasant.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:15
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cooler, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Getting Back To Typical

2011-08-30T08:53:00.002-04:00

The road was clear. The power was back on. The OJ tasted a bit funny but didn't turn my stomach. The coffee maker was dripping. The car was running and got me to the train station, although my check engine light did come on before I got there. Shoot.

The train only had 5 cars. People were standing all over the place. It was a mess.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Aftermath of Hurricane Irene

2011-08-29T11:38:00.001-04:00

Wellup, I woke up without the need of an alarm. Mainly because we didn't have electricity to power an alarm clock. Yeah, I could have used my cell phone but I thought I would sleep in if I was allowed by my mind and body. Alas, I woke up around the same time.

My wake up time was the least of my worries. The main issue of the morning was a fallen tree that had fallen in front of the one street that allows people to come in and out of my neighborhood. Think of it as a gated community but more ghetto.

At 6:30AM, there was no one around to clear the path. There were lots of people driving past my house in one direction just drive past again in the opposite direction.

Finally, at 10 AM, they cleared the road and people could leave the neighborhood. Hooray - I got to go to work.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 10:15
Departure Time From Train Station 11:23
Arrival Time at North Station: 12:05
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cool, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 8 !!!
Feared for my life: No

The Train Was Back To Normal Speed

2011-08-25T16:34:00.001-04:00

If that was one thing we had going for us, the train was back to full speed. It even arrived a little early today.
I sat not as close to the door. I have had success avoiding the guy who sits too close.
Tomorrow is Friday...
------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:37
Departure Time From Train Station 6:58
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Mostly sunny
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: nah

Post Earthquake Blues

2011-08-24T15:28:00.002-04:00

Man, for whatever reason, the train rolled along at half speed this morning. It was late to our stop and got us to Boston 20+ minutes late.

It looked like they were down to two conductors. One conductor was actually driving the train!!

So no tickets were collected and the train was packed with people because we were late.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 7:11
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:08
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: Nah

It Can Be Deceiving

2011-08-23T15:26:00.003-04:00

Not sure what today will bring. The cooler temperatures have been nice. The sunshine is pretty good. This kind of weather can fool you. You never know what the day may bring.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:31
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Brick Sidewalk

2011-08-22T15:17:00.002-04:00

The homeless guy who wishes everyone a good day was wearing a Yankees suck tee shirt.

The guy has to wear what he has to wear.

The brick sidewalk near Congress and State. It looks good and it's about time.

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Departure Time From Home: 6:36
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.67
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Black Forest Ham

2011-08-19T14:39:00.002-04:00

Why is Black Forest ham so delicious? I made a breakfast sandwich with egg, cheese, and Black Forest ham on a bagel and it was excellent.

I guess it originated from the Black Forest area in Germany.

Good stuff.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:34
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and humid
Shady Gas Price: $3.67
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

I Still Don't Want Him To Sit Next To Me

2011-08-18T14:34:00.002-04:00

There is this guy who gets on at Winchester Center that tends to sit next to me. Some days I dread his stop if the seat next to me is empty.

He stares a lot. He also likes to sit with his leg wide apart.

He makes me uncomfortable. I like it when he sits somewhere else.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Partly cloudy, 70s
Shady Gas Price: $3.67
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

The Sun Returned

2011-08-17T10:50:00.002-04:00

...and so did dry roads. I had to use my defrost a few times. The air was cool and dry. I am hoping it warms up today.

The train was quiet and did not smell like moth balls.

I had a pleasant companion in my two seater.

The walk from N. Station to the office was pleasant.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cool
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Well At Least It Didn't Rain In The Morning

2011-08-16T08:48:00.001-04:00

Although the clouds were threatening us, it didn't rain on the way to work today.

I was able to stand outside and wait for the train. I walked to work without getting drenched.

The clouds can be so tough sometimes.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Threatening Clouds
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Rain and Keys

2011-08-15T11:06:00.002-04:00

So this morning was the first one in a while where it was raining hard enough to force me to stand inside the station to wait for the train rather than wait for it outside.

The rain made the roads slow but the train chugged along with no issues.

On the train, I saw some keys hanging on a coat hook and called it "art".

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:31
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Rain
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

It Smells Like Moth Balls In Here

2011-08-12T10:59:00.001-04:00

I got on the train this morning and the A/C wasn't working and there was an odor in the air. It smelled like moth balls. I don't know why. Maybe there were some on the guy in front of me. It was stale and musty...

Like moth balls.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:36
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny.
Shady Gas Price: $3.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Closed Sidewalks

2011-08-10T15:51:00.002-04:00

I got to the train station and I got gold coins for my 10 dollar bill. They are easier to fit into the slots when you pay for parking.

The train was on time and quick and the person who sat next to me was pleasant.

The walk from the train station to the office was filled with closed sidewalks and other obstacles. I made it to work ok

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:31
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Forgot My Lunch At Home

2011-08-09T13:34:00.002-04:00

It was much drier and cooler this morning when I walked out of the house. I didn't have to take the trash to the curb nor clean it up from the raccoon party that happened during the night.

Nope, I got to the train station right away and the train ride was good.

I got to work and I looked in my bag. I had forgotten my lunch at home. Blah.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cool, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Back To The Regular Schedule

2011-08-08T13:33:00.003-04:00

So I got back to work today. My wife and I welcomed our third child to the world on 7/29 so I have been home for a while.

You know, it turns out I didn't forget how to drive to work.

They are putting bricks down at the corner of State and Congress in Boston. I think that project will be done soon. I have written that before though.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:52
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:07
Weather as I call it: Cloudy but humid, 70s
Shady Gas Price: $3.69 (Cash)
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Wow

2011-07-28T13:49:00.002-04:00

The air was dry and the sun was out. It had that perfect day feel in the morning.

Sleeping in an extra hour helped a little bit. The drivers are a little more aggressive at 7 than they are at 6:30.

You get people riding your bumper...trying to pass you as soon as they can. They tend to have NH plates too.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:55
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:07
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.71
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Renting Bikes

2011-07-27T15:36:00.001-04:00

I see the kiosks outside North Station that are Hubway bike kiosks. I wonder when they will be filled with bikes.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:33
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 70s
Shady Gas Price: $3.71
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

More Cloudy Skies

2011-07-26T10:25:00.003-04:00

The rain came down last night and knocked out our electricity for 3 hours last night. Once it came back on, I set my alarm...but didn't set the volume. It was really loud when it went off at 6.

I took the later train and was able to hit the Clover Food Lab truck in Government Center for some iced coffee from Burundi.

Man, that was good coffee. Lots of happy people at that food truck too.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:55
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:07
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, cool, 60
Shady Gas Price: $3.71
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Trying To Get Out The Door

2011-07-25T10:15:00.002-04:00

I had a hard time getting out the door. I had computer problems - I was trying to get something done before I left the house but my PC wasn't helping me out.

I skipped breakfast and decided to buy something... I bought a breakfast sandwich at Subway. Yeah, I don't know what I was thinking. I guess I was curious.

The egg for the sandwich was pre-made. Picture a small omelette in a perfect circle shape. The sandwich artist then heats it up it the big toaster oven along with the bread and cheese.

Well, that's the last time I get that. Plus the coffee was horrible too.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:36
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy. Cooler. 60s
Shady Gas Price: $3.71
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Yeah That Was A Sweaty Walk

2011-07-22T15:23:00.002-04:00

The sky was hazy white from the heat this morning. It looked like the bleak future they illustrate in the movies.

I got an iced coffee from Flat Black as a reward from surviving my walk from North Station to Post Office Square. It was a soupy hot stroll through the concrete jungle.

If I were driving all the way to work, I bet you I would see more cranky people.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Hazy, Hot, Humid.
Shady Gas Price: $3.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

Heat Wave Day 2

2011-07-21T09:03:00.003-04:00

Another hawt one. How 'bout cha?

I thought to myself that I should call my mom because the news man said I should check on the elderly. I don't think she would think that was funny*.

*My mom is not elderly. I guess it's only funny if you know my mom.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:30
Departure Time From Train Station 7:01
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Steamy, 70s
Shady Gas Price: $3.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Construction On The Corner Of State and Congress Street

2011-07-20T09:02:00.002-04:00

It looks like they are finally cleaning up the construction on the corner of State and Congress streets.

It looks like they are going to fix the sidewalks and finally take away all the jersey barriers that have been in place for years and years.

It would be nice for this intersection to be cleaned up before the end of the summer.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:32
Departure Time From Train Station 6:59
Arrival Time at North Station: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun, 70s
Shady Gas Price: $3.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

That Dude Was Jumping

2011-07-19T08:42:00.002-04:00

I don't know if I can describe it but there was a dude jumping near the overhang of the Gov't center parking garage. He had no shirt on and was stomping around on the bricks around the garage.

Then, he took off running towards a wooden box where they store sand in the winter time. He used the box as a ramp to jump high in the air.

After he was done with the jump, he started to walk/stomp away. A turn of his head revealed that he had a mohawk type haircut, but only on the back of his head.

It was a blond hair strip of craziness if I have ever saw one.

------------------------------

Departure Time From Home: 6:55
Departure Time From Train Station 7:26
Arrival Time at North Station: 8:06
Weather as I call it: Sunny - hot
Shady Gas Price: $3.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No