889 Accidents

Bus Departure Time: 7:03
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Sunny and nice
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

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I took a seat on the bus today after standing for the past several days. Hey, it's July 3rd, I deserve it.

I grabbed a Metro before running for the Orange Line...the bus dropped me off right in time.

The Metro had an article discussing the number of accidents MBTA buses have been in since the beginning of the year: 889 in total. At first I thought that was a high number, but when you learn that there are about 15,000 one way bus trips a day everyday...it's a pretty small number (multiply 15,000 by 181 days and you'll get what I mean).

I have yet to encounter a bus that I am riding get into an accident. I will be sure to let you know if I do.

I'll be out tomorrow. Hopefully you will be too. I will be back Thursday...hopefully you were smart and took the rest of the week off.

The North Shore Is Where You're Gonna Soar

Bus Departure Time: 7:03
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:26
T Arrival Time: 7:47
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool. High 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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The bus was its usual packed self today, filled with people who were quiet. There just weren't the normal conversations happening this morning. Everyone seemed dazed from a weekend of fun...or dread.

Hey, it was quiet on the bus and I don't know why so I am making up stuff.

I think we had one too many stops on the ride today because I missed the Orange Line that usually leaves Malden at 7:19 (at least from I can tell from my own blog!) by a few moments.

I took the next Orange Line train and getting onto the train made me smile. There seemed to be a mad dash to get a seat today. It reminded me of musical chairs. It was like the music had stopped and we all had to scramble to get a seat to stay in the game.

And the people who didn't get a seat weren't happy....

Seriously Folks

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cooler...yay!
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: I'm worried

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My wife learned about the shooting at the Ruggles T station on the TV news last night. I think she's worried about me...which made me start to get worried too.

I joke and report about if I feared for my life on the T in the morning...but maybe it's not really a joke. When you hear about people getting shot and stabbed on the same line you take everyday, you get to thinking about your own safety. I look around the train car in the morning and none of the people I ride with, from what I perceive, are thinking that this might be their last trip. They are thinking about getting to work on time, dreading the silly paperwork they have to complete, worrying about other small stuff (you know, in comparison to getting killed).

Maybe I'm getting overly dramatic here, but it makes me wonder what the hell is happening to our city, country, world, etc. Do we need to live in constant fear of each other, or can we figure out how to get along with each other? (and I mean that on a one on one up to a world level).

On a completely different and much lighter note, I got a card for a free slice of pizza at Bostone Pizza while walking out of the Back Bay T stop. I have had a slice from there before, and I can tell you it's ok, from what I remember... It's not the best pizza I have ever have, but I feel you should support a local business. The guy who handed me the card along with the little menu was enthusiastic, cheery, and seemed passionate. Hey, he might have been the owner. That kind of effort should get all the support in the world, in my opinion. I might have to stop by today and get two slices.

MBTA Rules That Can Be Broken

Bus Departure Time: 7:04
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy and a little less humid than yesterday.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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Only 3 people asked me, "Is it hot enough for ya?" yesterday. What a disappointment.
Heat waves should be measured in this fashion. It isn't a heat wave until 5 people ask you said question. None of this "three days in a row of 90+ degree temps" business.

The bus was packed. It got so bad the driver was letting people on through the rear door.

At Malden station, some guy ticked off one of the conductors by standing in the doorway. The guy was stopping the doors from closing by using his body; leaning against one side of the doorway.

The conductor yelled at him over the intercom, "Will you stop holding the doors open!?!" The guy walked away from the door and sat smugly across from me.

I am not sure how I feel about what he did. On one side, he was holding the door open for people who were running for the train. On the other side, he was holding me and the rest of the train up from proceeding down the line.

Overall, passengers are not supposed to hold the doors open...

I don't know. How do you feel?

Summertime Haze

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Muggy, hazy sun.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

I woke up a little later today as planned. When you are not used to it, an extra 10 minutes will do you good. Well, at least today it did.

The bus ride was a mirror image of yesterday. Mike and I stood near the rear door and talked about the Sox losing again.

There is usually a Metro hawker who shouts goofy things like "Get your Metro because I am dropping it like it's hot!" at the Malden Center T stop but he was out today. His replacement was less dynamic.

I thought I would document the haze we are encountering today with a photo I stole using Google Image Search:



I can't for someone to ask me, "Is it hot enough for ya?!??!"

Protect Your Identity on the T

Bus Departure Time: 7:03
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Hazy, steamy
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

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

The bus stop had a small crowd: Mike and me. We talked Sox; apparently they lost last night. If they play on the west coast (they played in Seattle last night), I can't/won't stay up for those games. I need to learn about it the next morning.

We stood in the back of the bus and got into the T station 16 minutes later to laugh at the free paper hawkers with their ridiculous routines to get you to take a paper.

Hey, if you are riding the T and you clip your work security badge so it faces forward so everyone can see it...be careful. I saw some dude staring at this woman's badge so much that she felt she had to flip it around. Not sure what was on the badge, maybe just her name and her company, but I guess that's enough to stalk somebody.

One Bus

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy and warm
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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Although it has been a major plot line for this blog since February, my commute's complex two bus "game" has been put on hiatus for the summer. We'll probably start up again in September when the kids are back in school, but for the next couple of months there will be one bus that leaves at 7:00. So, no more guess work. Boo!

I guess I will sleep in a few minutes more.

With the lack of a second bus, the only bus was packed with people...but people who do not pay in change so we moved pretty quickly.

We did have a stop where a woman had a hard time getting by people to get to the exit. As the door closed, she piped up, "Not yet!" so the driver opened the door and she finally stumbled off.

The Orange Line was fine. I got some reading done.

Something in the air is making me want to sneeze (weather.com sez it's grass pollen), and I finally did on the street walking to my building. Someone said "Bless you" after I sneezed. It took me off guard, but I thanked them.

Mysterious Hours

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:09
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Sunny. Low Humidity. 60s Makes you want to call in sick. :)
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: I wish

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Summer is here (well later on today officially) and it's been sorta easy going on the T so I thought I would pepper you with a random note. Here you go:

There's a place in Malden near the T station called Artichokes Ristorante Trattoria. You can check it out here and here.

I saw this sign a while ago, but I haven't had the time to type about it until now.

Their hours of operation are from 4:30 to Closings. 4:30 to Closings! (that's plural and I don't what that means...maybe it's a typo).

I wish I could set hours like that. Are they trying to support early dining or do they like the mystery of never knowing exactly when they will close?

Retirees and risk takers rejoice!

Meh, I have always wanted to try it. Maybe I will go there around 6:37?

I will be out tomorrow. Type to you Monday.

Let Me Off First

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:14
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Cloudy but thankfully not raining
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Not today

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I love it when the first bus, which is scheduled to come to my stop at 6:57 comes later than the second bus (which is scheduled to come to my stop at 7:05, I think?)

It's all messed up.

We only realize this situation when we are sitting on the second bus and the first bus passes us at the next stop.

Meh, the kids are out of school so the rides are fine.

Hey, can we let people off the trains before boarding? At Sullivan Square, I heard a woman yell "Let me off first!!!" She meant business.

I didn't see her but might have been the woman who stiff armed some guy a week ago.

Maybe this woman got stuck on the train once because she couldn't exit the train in time and she never wants to have that happen again.

Effectiveness of T Billboards

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:12
T Departure Time: 7:12
T Arrival Time: 7:33
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy and high 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

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It looks like the kids are out of school and it reflects in the bus ride.
No kids = Easy ride.

We did have a new driver today. She likes taking big swings into the stops (and I mean turning the bus with a big swinging motion - not with a baseball bat).

It kinda made me a little car sick after the 15th swing.

My getting to the Malden station platform was perfectly timed with the arrival of the train. Unfortunately, all the seats were taken when I got on so I had to stand. While standing, I noticed there were billboards for the same website all along the banner row on my side of the car (probably on the other side too).

After reading all their quirky slogans, I was hooked. I had to check the site out, even though I would probably regret it later.

So, do yourself a favor and don't check out Windorphins.com.

Street Teacher

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Still cloudy and cooler
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nah

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

I was late out of the door this morning and I missed the first bus...wah.

The second bus came right after that, and the ride into town was smooth. People paid and took their seats with no issues. I think the bus driver even wished someone to have a good day. Wow.

The subway was pretty calm as well. No whistling today, though.

The best thing I saw this morning was a guy trying to instruct a driver about the rules of the road. He was walking across the street in a crosswalk and as the car approached him, he kept pointing down at the white lines as if to somehow convey to the driver, "I'm walking in a crosswalk and you are supposed to stop!" The vigor this guy had in his exaggerated arm movements made me laugh out loud.

He can't expect to teach anybody with that method.

I'm taking a few days off. I will be back next Tuesday. Have fun.

Whistling While Going To Work

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:17
T Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cool, in the 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

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

Well, the messy meat splatter discussed in yesterday's post was gone from the bus stop this morning. Thank God for raccoons, feral cats, and other critters. They do a good job cleaning up.

While I was waiting for the bus, there was a older gentleman across the street walking backwards with no shoes on and slapping himself on his back using alternating arms. I am not sure if he was exercising or punishing himself. It was bizarre and I kept asking myself if it were real or not. Nobody else at the bus stop acknowledged it...so I didn't say anything.

The bus was packed and the T was quiet except for some guy who thought he could whistle tunes for 5 stops straight. I don't know where I fall on the whistling in public debate, but after 3 stops I had had enough of the whistling.

MBTA Lessons Learned

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:17
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Partly cloudy but warm - 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

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

Ok, let's start with the ugly:

Not sure what it was, but there was a splattered meaty mass in front of the bench at the bus stop. It could have been puke, dog food, or puked up dog food. So, I bent down and took a taste.....I was wrong, it was cat food.

Gotcha.

It was weird though...one doesn't see that kind of a mess everyday. The woman who was standing at the stop before me didn't acknowledge it. Maybe she was the cause?

I got on the second bus after waving off the first one. Let me type it out so you can read it: The second bus driver runs a tight ship!

"No Canadian coins!" she yelled as a passenger tried to pass a 25 cent piece with a Caribou on it.

Tsk tsk!

"Wait for the green light!" she exclaimed as another passenger attempted to scan her Charlie Card before the reader had reset.

My goodness, the insolence!!

The Orange Line was grand as ever. Another rule of the T is for passengers on the platform to wait for all passengers to exit the train before stepping onto it. I saw an older woman "heisman trophy" a guy this morning so she could get off at Sullivan Sq. before he walked on. She sorta patted him on the chest after the stiff arm. He smiled a bit, and bowed his head in repentance.

He knew the rule.

Stare Forward

Bus Departure Time: 7:00
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy..warm
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

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

Ah, Monday morning...Time to pay for your two days of debauchery, you hungover drones.

First bus came a little late and I jumped on and got a seat. Got to the T station just in time to jump on the Orange Line.

I didn't feel like I captured anything on the ride today. I stared forward like everyone else wishing they were anywhere else but where they were at that moment.

Sad, really. I am tired and I shoulda stood in bed.

System Breaks Down

Bus Departure Time: 7:04
Bus Arrival Time: 7:22
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun around 60 degrees
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: No

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

Is it Friday yet? You can lump that question in with "Hot enough for ya?"

The first bus didn't come, so we all hopped on the second bus. The driver of the second bus had some snide remark about the first bus driver's absence when we got on:

"She must be off having breakfast somewhere."

Ouch.

The bus was packed. The driver stopped at every stop and let people get on via the back door because the front of the bus was filled with people. The driver was a stickler for the "do not stand in front of the yellow line" rule, stating many times that she wasn't going anywhere until people stood behind the line.

I think it might have been the longest bus ride I have encountered since the job change/commute change in February.

Here's my next salute: Hats of to "Woman I Assume Works at New England Medical Center". She is always wearing light blue scrubs with matching Crocs and she always gets on at Downtown Crossing and gets off at the New England Medical Center stop.

Although I am not absolutely sure wear she works, I would be willing to bet a large sum of money..say 25 dollars...she works at New England Medical Center.

"Woman I Assume Works at New England Medical Center", I salute you!

Yell No Bell

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool. 40s? I didn't wear a jacket, and I was fine.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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I had to fly and present to a client yesterday so no communting to work.
The commute to Logan yesterday morning was ok...just ok. Thanks for asking.

I took the first bus and caught up with Mike about the Sox and their current losing streak. Meh, this June Swoon will be over before you know it.

The bus had a great sign up front (if you can call it that): "Yell No Bell" was written in marker where the stop requested sign would normally be.

I got to Malden Station and missed the Orange Line by that much. I took the next T and it went just fine. No delays and no issues.

Sometimes it works like its supposed to work.

Boston Now Aggressiveness

Bus Departure Time: 7:05
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and muggy. 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

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I took the second bus today. There were lots of people at the stop and I didn't feel like dealing with the crowds.

There were two high school kids behind me. They were singing songs about things they saw...like "Paul's Rubber Stamp Shop". Good times.

Is it just me or have the Boston Now paper distributors become more aggressive over the past few weeks? It's getting to the point where papers are being forced in front of me and I need to swat them away to get by.

I'm feeling like I don't care if it's Boston Now, Boston Yesterday, or Boston 3 Weeks From Now.

Remnants of Tropical Storm Barry

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:12
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:39
Weather as I call it: Light rain and some wind.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: Nah.

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

The bus came on time and on a day like today, that's all you can ask for. Thanks to the late riser syndrome on Mondays, the bus was pretty empty too...which was an added bonus.

As usual, there were many wet seats. The windows were closed when I got on the bus, but they must have been open at some point this morning. I was able to sit down on a dry seat and wipe up the water on the wet window seat with my coat sleeve just in case I had to move in to accommodate another passenger. It turned out that I didn't have to move at all, since there weren't many people on the route this morning.

Eh, I hope someone is keeping score.

We got to the T station pretty quickly, and I got on the Orange Line train that came in at 7:15. We had to wait for a long time (2 minutes) at Sullivan Square due to traffic up ahead, but the rest of the ride was problem free.

Overheard On Someone's iPod: Some dance song. I could hear the high hat rhythm which was right in time with the clacking of the train's wheels as we raced into Community College.

Fire at Back Bay Station

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:12
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun. 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Maybe I should have?

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There was a fire truck outside of Back Bay station this morning. I wasn't sure why...but when I got into work and checked Boston.com I saw this headline:

MBTA commuter trains have stopped running through Back Bay Station after what appeared to be a small debris fire started near the tracks. A T spokeswoman said the Boston Fire Department has responded, and trains should be running again as soon as the fire is extinguished.

I can tell you Orange Line had no problems going in or out of the station...and I didn't see any flames/smoke/panic/woman-and-children-first type event going on. Oh well.

Hey, it's Friday and I thought I would start saluting(I don't think I feel comfortable giving a "shout out") people I see on a regular basis on the T. I see these people so much that I recognize them and have given them nicknames in my head.

Here is my first salute: Hats off to "Stereotypical Business Suit Old Guy" He gets on the Orange Line every morning at North Station and takes it to Downtown Crossing. He wears nice suits and looks sorta like this:



I always wonder what you do, but if I were casting a movie you would play the role of the corporate higher-up...You know, "The Man".

"Stereotypical Business Suit Old Guy", I salute you.

Pinned Down at Downtown Crossing

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:17
T Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cooler...a little rain once I got into Boston
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah

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Good stuff this morning! Let's start at the beginning. I got on the first bus since it was pretty empty and arrived right around the time it should.

Three stops later: A woman wearing flip flops fell down while running to catch the bus. It didn't seem that she hurt herself though since she got right up and laughed it off.

Funny thing is, I see this woman all the time. She always looks exasperated on the bus. The first time I saw her smile was today...after she fell. She may not take herself as seriously as I thought.

That'll teach me.

I got on the Orange Line after a very short wait. The car I was on filled up with people by Sullivan Square...and the A/C wasn't on...or it wasn't working.

It was pretty steamy by the time we got to Downtown Crossing, when the normal grand exodus occurred and the few of us left on the train got some relief.

Or so I thought.

Before we left DTC (that's what the cool kids call Downtown Crossing), a guy sat down next to me...a pretty large gentleman. He had a large plastic bag full of soda cans, he talked to himself, and he smelt like garbage.

The worst part was he had me pinned in my seat. His left elbow was pressed against my right arm. There was no escape! Ok, I am exaggerating, but at Chinatown I got up and sat down in the next section of seats. That's the first time I have had to do that this year - move away from somebody because I was starting to get sick to my stomach.

P.S. The old Dean's Home Furniture building in Malden Center is being torn down. Am I going to miss it?

I freaking doubt it!!

She Knows Too

Bus Departure Time: 7:05
Bus Arrival Time: 7:21
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny and warmer High 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

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I don't know if I should write about what happened today but I have to report what I witnessed.

The first bus was late today and the second bus was right behind it. There was an unusually large number of people at the stop today, so some people (the ones not in the know) got on the first bus.

After the passengers had boarded, the bus driver called over to "Frank" (name changed to protect the innocent). The driver told "Frank" to tell the second bus driver (since a bunch of us were standing around waiting to take the second bus) that she shouldn't go slow and that she should pass the first bus when she can.

He said, "Ah, ok."

"Frank" told the second bus driver this message when he stepped onto the bus. According to "Frank", the second bus driver looked at him strangely when he was telling her what the first driver had said.

The second bus driver stated gruffly, "Well if she had left on time, I wouldn't have to pass her!"

Just between you and me, I have known that the 6:55 bus has been late more times than not over the past few months. It's reassuring that an authority on the matter; i.e., another MBTA employee knows about this issue as well.

Not sure what will come of this incident, but I will let you know.

Once we got to the Malden T station, I had to take two steps at a time to catch the subway. It was waiting at the platform and the first "doors are closing" chimes had rang. I jumped on right in time and got a seat to boot.

Long Weekend Recovery

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Nice. Clear and sunny
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah.

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I love three day weekends. I hate three day weekends. I am pretty groggy this morning. I must have gotten used to sleeping late, if you consider 8:00 late. Plus, I went to the driving range with my father-in-law yesterday and I am sore in weird places like the tricep muscle on my left arm.

Lesson learned: I am out of shape.

Two buses came to the stop at the same time today. I opted for the second one since it had less people on it. Mike and I talked about Papelbon and his "heart attack saves". Mike thinks Francona is using him too much...especially in non-save situations.

The Orange Line was ok today. I was cramped between two people who sat down on either side of me at Wellington and I didn't get any relief until Downtown Crossing.

Overheard On Someone's iPod: Some No Doubt song...or maybe it was a Gwen Stefani solo effort. It was definitely her voice.

Welcome back.

Allergies

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun and in the low 70s. It's gonna be a scorcha!?!
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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I finally did it today. I have been holding back for days now. It was controllable; I was able to contain it. Today was different...and it happened.

I sneezed on the subway.

Whatever pollen was in the air this morning finally caused me to sneeze. I have felt a tickle in my nose all this week, but combated it successfully through squeezing my face into different positions (people probably thought I had a facial tic) and pinching the bridge of my nose.

Right around the State St. stop, I let 'er rip. I covered my face with my hands and let out a mighty "ah-choo!".

Can a guy get a "Bless you" around here? The answer is "No, not on the Orange Line".

Have a good weekend. I will type to you Tuesday.

Slow Train Safe Train

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:39
Weather as I call it: Sunny and warm. I could get used to this...
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah.

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

The Orange Line was incredibly slow today, but then I look at the times above and I have to correct myself. It was only a minute later than usual. How is that possible?

There were long pauses between Sullivan Sq. and Community College that seemed to go on forever...and were never explained.

No falling people on the train today...it was going to slow.

How To Keep From Falling On The T

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:13
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Sunny and in the 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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The first bus came on time again today. Looks like we have a Yankees-esque winning streak (two in a row...whoa!), which means it will be late tomorrow.

We had Sox talk in the back of the bus with Mike and the other guy I can talk to through the transitive property.

Once on the Orange Line, I got a seat and the train was relatively quiet.

There was one guy who lost his balance and almost fell on his face. He hadn't mastered the "reading the paper on the T" technique yet.

Maybe I should hold a training this weekend?

Giving Up Your Seat

Bus Departure Time: 7:05
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:23
T Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Sunny and warm. High 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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I took the second bus today because I left the house later than usual. I thought I would take my time and get to the stop just before 7 and still have my choice between the two buses. Apparently, miracles never cease and the first bus came on time today.

Mike and I chatted about the Sox loss and somehow through what I call the transitive property of acquaintances (He talks to this guy and he talks to that guy, so this guy and that guy can talk too) I continued talking to another Sox fan guy while standing on the Orange Line platform.

Both the bus and T were packed today and I had to stand for both rides.

At Chinatown, an elderly man came on the train. A young woman helped him to find a seat and after he sat down, she chided the people who were sitting near the door.

"Why aren't you giving up your seats for the old man?" she asked.

Alas, no one responded.

Overheard On Someone's iPod: I didn't recognize the song, but it sure had a lot of horns playing Latin-tinged melodies.

Charlie Tickets Instead of Change

Bus Departure Time: 7:05
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny (finally) and spring like. 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

I took the later bus today...because of peer pressure (ha!) and because I didn't take it on Friday.

The bus ride was mellow as it normally is on the second bus, but there was one rider who was befuddled about getting a Charlie Ticket instead of coins after paying for his fare. He's not the first person I have witnessed having trouble understanding the "ticket rather than change" situation.

Let me explain: If you are going to pay cash on the bus, the ride costs $1.50. If you have two dollar bills and you choose to pay the fare with them, you would expect to get 50 cents back...preferably two quarters.

The way the system works now, you will not get 50 cents in U.S. coins as the difference of your payment to the bus fare. You will get a Charlie Ticket that is worth 50 cents. You can use this ticket next time you ride the T. You can even add money to it at a subway station using a kiosk.

People may have their hearts set on getting a couple of quarters for the vending machine, but once you give money to the MBTA you have to spend it with the MBTA (at least in this situation).

From what I have experienced, the drivers spend a lot of time explaining the ticket to riders. Not sure how to get the word out and help reset expectations of cash paying bus riders, but maybe this post will help.



Just one quick item from the Orange Line: The conductor said these words over the loudspeaker, "Please stop holding the door open with your bag, ma'am!"

The best part: The train was moving at the time!

Docking Satellites at Sullivan Square

Bus Departure Time: 7:04
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:17
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Rainy...and cold.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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

I was the only person at my stop today and I had to wait longer than usual (wah).
Rain tends to slow the bus down and also brings out crowds of people who don't want to walk in it. The Outcome: the bus was packed with people within three stops after I got on.

Since we reached capacity earlier than normal, the bus stopped picking up people and started picking up speed. We got to the T stop faster than I expected.

On the T, there was one curious happening at Sullivan Square. We pulled into the station and came to a stop. Everything seemed normal. Then, the announcer told everyone to stand behind the yellow line because the train was backing up. We paused for a while, but then the train started to back up and then paused again.

I sat there waiting for the doors to open as people on the other side looked in with me with anxious looks.

Then, the train lurched forward about 2 feet, finally stopped, and then opened its doors.

I thought to myself "Are we docking to a satellite here?"

What's with all the precision? Maybe the engineer has OCD about this one stop and IT JUST HAD TO BE PERFECT!!

Maybe? Meh. Type to you Monday.

Double Parked

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cooler, 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

Leaving my pals behind at the stop, I took the first bus again today. Maybe I will treat myself tomorrow and take the later, less crowded bus.

As the bus was trying to get through Malden Square we were halted because some, well, Masshole double parked on Main St. so he could get his coffee at the Dunk. From what I could see, the bus could have squeezed by the parked Jeep Liberty...but maybe the driver didn't want to risk it...or maybe she stopped on the principle that what this M-word did was intolerable. I mean, he was blocking most of the road when he could have parked in an open space just down the street.

I guess the lazy M-word didn't want to walk that far.

The bus driver beeped her horn a few times. The Jeep's hazards were on which led me to believe that driver may have been in the car.

The bus driver laid on the horn again. Suddenly the doors of the ubiquitous coffee/donut mecca opened and a man with keys in one hand and an iced coffee in the other strolled towards the Jeep.

He never made eye contact with anyone on the bus nor did he quicken his pace. He casually entered the Jeep and slowly pulled away.

It was an amazing feat of blithe unconcern.

It's For The Blog

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Hazy sunshine and a bit humid. 60s?
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

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

Breaking News: I found out what Gym Bag Guy's name is today. He asked me mine because he's been calling me Buddy for months now. I told him and he replied with "I'm Mike". Damn, I like mysteries.

I took the first bus because it's better for the blog. The second one is quiet and comfortable, but boring. When it arrived I hopped on, leaving Mike at the stop.

The bus driver asked me, "Are you sure?"

There was a woman in front of me who amazed me with her crankiness. I believe she was the mouthpiece of comments reported here.

As the bus filled up, she wondered aloud, "Why aren't people moving back? You can't stand at the front if more people are coming on!"

There was a teenage boy waiting at a stop a block away from the T station. She spoke out to no one in particular, "It's a nice day, why doesn't he walk to the T station?" (Note: The T station is the last stop of this bus.)

I don't think she was having a good day today.

Overheard on Someone's iPod: "There, There" by Radiohead.

(Uh, I cheated a little bit...I sorta recognized it from the beat, but happened to see the title on the iPod's screen... Boo! Hiss!)

Some MBTA Annoyances

Bus Departure Time: 7:04
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy with some light rain
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Not really

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

There was some light rain a-droppin' down as I walked from my door to the bus stop. I decided to 'go with the crowd' and take the second bus today. When the first one came around 7:02 and was packed with people, Guy and a woman who has been showing up at the stop the last few days (Guy knows her, natch) convinced me that the later bus was the one to take.

I didn't regret my choice too much even though I did get to the T station later than the first bus. I enjoyed the lower stress level of the less crowded bus.

The T was fine until the end. I was looking to get off the subway car, but the exit closest to me only had one door operational. On the Orange line, every exit has two sliding doors that break in the middle. When one of them doesn't work, you only have half the space to pass through.

Not only was one of the doors not working correctly, there was a young gentleman standing right in front of the open door. I had to speak up or would have never exited the train (Does that remind you of some old folk song?).

I just said, "Excuse me" and he moved out of the way. I guess I was a little annoyed about him, but more annoyed about the broken door.

Ground Rules

Bus Departure Time: 7:00
Bus Arrival Time: 7:14
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Sunny and nice. I probably should have worn a jacket, but I didn't. Don't tell my mom.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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

I was sort of a late riser myself today. As I was walking to the stop, I could see there were a number of people waiting including Gym Bag Guy. Just as I arrived, a bus was slowing to a stop. I asked Guy if it were bus #1 or #2. He replied he was going to wait for the second one. Looking through the bus windows, I could see that there were open seats. I decided to take my chances, and jumped on.

My choice was right. The first bus got to the stop earlier than the second one and I was able to connect with the Orange Line without having to wait a long time/run to catch it.

Once on the Orange Line, I sat down and joined the other people quietly riding to their destination.

There was a guy listening to his iPod and the volume was up just enough for me to hear the beat. I started to lean in a little to see if I could hear more of the song, but then I stopped myself because I felt a little creepy.

Although it would good to get a new segment a-going for the blog, I think I need to set up some ground rules for "Overheard On Someone's iPod". I shouldn't have to invade someone's personal space for the blog.

Sharing Music on the T

Bus Departure Time: 7:04
Bus Arrival Time: 7:17
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny, 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

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

Gym Bag Guy and I took the second bus and talked Red Sox. Maybe it was the lack of crowdedness or the weather or the Sox finishing the sweep of Toronto, but I had no worries this morning on the bus.

I got on the T and you could tell it was a Friday. People were dressed for comfort. I was wearing jeans and a buttoned up short sleeve shirt, so I was part of the comfort club.

I may need to add a new segment to each post. I will call it, "Overheard on someone's iPod". Some people like to listen to their music at a very loud volume. In turn, the rest of us on the car get to hear it too.

Today's selection: Lenny Kravitz's "Are You Gonna Go My Way?"

If this unintentional music sharing happens often enough, then I will add a line to the header. If not, I will report them as they happen.

Finally, Boston Now is trying to pay you to read their paper.

Happy Friday!

Walking in Boston

Bus Departure Time: N/A
Bus Arrival Time: N/A
T Departure Time: N/A
T Arrival Time: N/A
Weather as I call it: Hazy and a bit humid
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): N/A
Feared for my life: I felt pretty confident I was going to survive.

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

I didn't go through the normal routine today because my wife had a dentist appointment at 9 and we all went in together....my son and I got to sit around.

After that, I walked to work since the dentist office is on Park St. If the sky was a little clearer and if it was a bit less humid, the walk would have been perfect.

I shouldn't complain. A day like this beats any day in January.

Storrow Drive Improvement Part Deux

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:11
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: The sun is shining and people are happy
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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

This morning, the bus was filled with conversations and happiness. I blame the weather.

The Orange Line was another story: people were silent and angry (Ok, maybe I am exaggerating here).

We did have to stand by due to traffic up ahead numerous times on the trip. That wasn't fun, but looking at the numbers it only added 5 more minutes to the duration.

Ok, onto another subject entirely! (my version of ...and now for something completely different).

Do you remember the Storrow Drive Improvement Study I was a part of last year?

Well, I guess the 4 different ideas that were proposed to improve the road have been deemed "unrealistic" and they are back to the drawing board.

This time, they want to add exit ramps on the Mass Pike.

Hey, I have an idea. Let's build another Storrow Drive, but build it underground.

C'mon, whaddya say?

Bus Driver Seeking Redemption

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:10
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Glorious sun and warm. I didn't wear a jacket.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

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

I stepped onto the bus this morning and was greeted by the driver with a query:
"Where's our Superman today?"

The "Superman" she was referring to was our friend, Gym Bag Guy.

The driver and "Guy" like to rib each other and it stems from the choosing of buses in the morning. Guy is always trying to figure out which bus is the better one to take. Which one will be less crowded and/or which one will get him to his place of work quicker (most days these two aspects can be attributed to the same bus, sometimes not).

He often chooses the second bus. He will stand defiantly at the stop and tell the driver he's waiting for the next one, which signals the closing of the door.

I have since learned that he has seen her in the Dunkin' Donuts (not sure which one since there are about 19 in the center of town) during the middle of the day and they have discussed the topic of his choosing the later bus in further detail. Guy has called it 'giving her a hard time'.

Since she has been on time the past two days, Guy has not been at the bus stop when she arrived. He must be conditioned to the later time.

I think she gets a little hurt when Guy doesn't choo choo choose her bus.

So, here she was, on time, and he wasn't there to deem her bus the better bus, prompting her to ask me where he was.

My answer to her question was to gesture towards the figure strolling across the field on the opposite side of the street.

She responded, "Eh, I guess he doesn't run."

Bring Your Lunch

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:08
T Departure Time: 7:09
T Arrival Time: 7:30
Weather as I call it: Sunny with a little chill in the air.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1 No complaints
Feared for my life: Not today

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

Dear readers,

I was out Friday due to a family emergency, but everything's ok and I'm back at it.

I think I got a glimpse of what summer mornings on the T could be like. For some reason, there were no high school kids on the bus today. Paired with the driver's punctuality, the bus portion of my commute was great. We'll see. It was Monday and late risers are a factor as well.

The only interesting thing about the bus ride was the guy in front of me who smelt of Ben Gay. I have seen this guy many times before and he is a curious figure. He always has an insulated lunch pack with him and I always imagine he has the greatest lunches ever in there; bountiful culinary extravaganzas which make me wish I had planned to make something good rather than rushing through a turkey sandwich on wheat preparation before I left the house.

Maybe he strained a muscle putting together his lunch?

The Oldest Man In The World

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Bright and sunny. 50 degrees
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2.5
Feared for my life: Nah

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

As I arrived at the bus stop, Gym Bag Guy greeted me and asked me which bus to take today. He motioned toward the bus rumbling its way to our stop.

"What do you think, bud? Should we take this one?"

"This is the one," I said.

We got on and talked Red Sox, of course. About halfway through our ride, we were delayed for an unusually long time. So, I finished my thought about Julio Lugo and then looked down the aisle to see what was holding us up.

From what I could figure out, it seemed we were blessed with the presence of the oldest man in the world. I overheard people saying that he had just turned 257, but to me he didn't look a day over 220. I guess he decided to take the bus to get to Malden Center today.

Ok, enough picking on the elderly. After the driver dropped him off, she was discussing with some of the passengers sitting close to her that she was amazed the old man was out and about on his own and wondered why he didn't take The Ride.

Just then, a woman's cell phone rang. Vivaldi's The Four Seasons blasted out of her purse and into her hand as she answered.

It was the Spring movement #1. How appropriate.

Big Letdown

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:13
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Cloudy. Sorta damp and
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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

The bus came on time today. The driver had a big smile on her face when our eyes met while I was swiping my Charlie Card.

Where did I wake up this morning? Iowa?

Wha' happened?

We got to the T stop in less than 20 minutes.

Somebody must have called to complain about yesterday's debacle. I was ready for another throwdown.

That's the thing, though... With the MBTA, you never know what you're going to get.

MBTA Drama, Fights, and Battles

Bus Departure Time: 7:05
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:24
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny. The sun was sharing its warmth.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Maybe I should have, but I enjoyed it all.

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

I experienced my first driver/passenger fight on the MBTA bus today. Let me set up the scene:

The bus I usually take (commonly referred to on these pages as "the first bus") never came. Where was it? Where? Nowhere.

The next bus (commonly known as "the second bus") came at its regularly scheduled time but since its earlier counterpart was absent today, this bus had a route filled with twice the number of people it normally faces.

My stop sits near the top of the route so I got on the bus with no problem, along with Gym Bag Guy. I stood close to the very back of the bus since I knew we would need all the room we could get.

The biggest problem on the route is the next stop. It's the largest stop in terms of the number of people waiting to get on the bus. Normally, there is at least 15 people waiting; it was doubled today. On top of that, there were two people who had multiple pieces of luggage with them.

Luggage! Huge suitcases!

After the first 28 people got on the bus, the driver started talking to the luggage-carrying pair.

"You're gonna have to wait for the next bus. I can't take luggage. You might as well get a cab with that many bags. This is a busy time for us!"

The passengers refused that advice. They requested to enter the bus through the back door.

One of the passengers, a plucky older gentleman who comes up to about my elbow, shouted to the driver.

"There's no room in the back either!"

The driver shouted back, "I am opening the back door" and said something regarding making room for the luggage couple.

The gentleman yelled, "We would have room if we had another bus. The 6:55 never came."

The driver responded, "I called and asked them to send another bus." and an exclamation that ended with "...shut the door in your face." (There was a lot of commotion, so it was difficult to hear everything that was said.)

"Well, you're an idiot!" stated the gentleman and the exchange abruptly ended. The luggage people shoved their way on. The doors closed with plenty of room away from anyone's face.

For the rest of the trip, the bus stopped to let people off but did not pick up any more passengers. The driver had to announce to every teeming mass pushing its way to get on the bus that there was no more room.

If nobody needed to get off, we just drove on by. I could see jaws dropping and looks of disgust through my dusty window each time we passed those stops.

We got to the T station just in time to watch the 7:20 roll away.

As I walked towards the station's doors, I could hear the free paper hawkers hollering. It's Metro vs. Boston Now in a battle to see who can pass out more dailies!

The Metro guy got me today. He looked right at me and said, "You know it's a Metro morning!" I had to laugh as I clutched the paper he stuck in front of me.

That's one way of putting it.

Late Riser Theory

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:35
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and damp, around 50 degrees
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

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

This Monday morning's commute was pretty easy. Overall, I think they are the easiest of the week...may it be driving or riding.

I have typed about this subject before. It must be due to the late rising from the weekend factor....so for me, since I commute in the early hours, it's pretty light...I wonder if 8AM to 9AM or 9AM to 10AM is really busy.

If you had a busy commute today and it happened between 8AM and 10AM, let me know.

Musing on Eternal Damnation

Bus Departure Time: 7:01
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Rainy. Sorta miserable.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): I'm gonna give it a 4
Feared for my life: No

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

Ah, standing in the rain...waiting for the bus...I think after I die and go to hell, my eternal punishment will be waiting outside in the rain for a bus that never comes.

Since I am still on earth, the bus did come eventually.

Have you noticed this occurrence too...or is it just me? I swear every time I get on an MBTA bus when it's raining, at least one window is open which lets rain get in and makes seats "unavailable" for passengers. With more people standing, the ride becomes worse with every stop. We survived, but I wish there were a policy for the driver to inspect the bus and close windows on a rainy day.

On the T, I moved a newspaper off a seat so a woman could sit. She thanked me. Maybe if I keep doing good deeds like that, I can work my way into purgatory.

Sleeping Woman on T

Bus Departure Time: 7:03
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny and spring-like
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

I took the later bus today and enjoyed the space and the calmness that it offered.

When I got on the T, there was a woman who was slumped over and sleeping...yet she was holding a single crutch.

People would come and go, but she kept sleeping. I don't recall exactly which stop it was (let's say Chinatown), but at the beeping sounds alerting passengers the doors were closing she awoke with a start and a wide-eyed look of "Where am I?"

She talked to herself for a while but when we were pulling into Back Bay she asked if anyone knew the time. I told her it was twenty of eight and she thanked me.

I am sure there is more to her story, but I can only report what I observe.

Cremora Crew

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Sunny and a bit cooler: 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Not today

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

Conversation overheard on the bus:

"Are you going to sit there?"
"Yeah, it's dry."
"Yeah, but it's still gross."
(Girl sits)
"See, I don't have anything on my butt!"

When I exited the bus, I looked down at the seat in question. It was gross. There was a stain that not only length and width, but also height. A 3-D stain of caramel badness.

Outside of the Back Bay T station, there were a group (4) of uniformed (well...like-dressed) individuals with clipboards looking eager to talk to any passerby. So, I had a natural reaction of tucking my chin into my chest and speeding up my pace to avoid contact. As I got closer, one of them asked me if I would like a free coffee today. I looked up and stated, "No thanks." As I looked up, I noticed the woman's t-shirt had a Cremora logo on it.

I don't know about you, but I fear non-dairy creamer. Now, I never liked that kind of stuff in the first place, but once somebody showed me it was flammable (Yes, this guy poured a stream of it out of its container and then lit it on fire!) I never wanted to ingest non-dairy creamer again.

I am glad I passed on the free coffee offer. From the looks of the clipboards, it didn't look that free to me.

A Commute About Nothing

Bus Departure Time: 7:00
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Sunny 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

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

It's the kind of commute where the bus is packed and high school girls talk of sisters who can do handsprings and MCAS studying and lack of cavities.

"I have had no cavities..."

[Gasp]

"Well, maybe one."

Which is it?

And the T is filled with Metro readers who are finding out that Boris Yeltsin died and kids in strollers repeat the conductor's announcements.

"Chinatown next...doors open on the right."

And the strong breeze caused by the Hancock building is refreshing instead of the usual "God-this-sucks-when-will-the-light-change-bone-chilling-cold".

Commute Annoyance Levels

Bus Departure Time: 7:05
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:29
T Arrival Time: 7:52
Weather as I call it: Sunny and warm. Pushing 60 at 7AM
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 5
Feared for my life: No

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

I am not sure what a "10" level of annoyance feels like. I guess an annoying commute with a level 10 rating would be one where the weather was awful, the bus would be late, the T would take a long time, and a number of passengers would punch me in the gut.

I gave this trip a 5 because, well, I just felt annoyed. The bus was really late, crowded, slow, etc. The T had the same feel...although I don't know if it was running on time or not. Plus, there were a lot of people everywhere...

A sunny day in Boston plus the end of April school vacation equals bad commute.

MBTA Paper Reading Procedures

Bus Departure Time: 7:00
Bus Arrival Time: 7:12
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Overcast. I think the sun is out tomorrow.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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

I took the later bus today and arrived at the same time I normally would. My preference is to take the bus that gets to my stop at 6:57, but if I am a little late it's nice to know the next one speeds down the lane. (it's a little frightening really)

A man was handing out what he described as "Boston's New Free Paper". It's Boston Now. I had to stand on the T today so I didn't read a lot of it. I think there is a technique to reading while standing on the T and I haven't quite mastered it yet.

You must find an article you want to read, fold the paper in half, hold the paper with one hand, and hold on for dear life with the other.

At the next stop, repeat.

I'm taking the day off tomorrow...Let's do this all again on Monday, mmmkay?

No Free Stuff Today

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:12
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Rainy still...
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

When we get storms such as this one where they linger for, you know, days...I forget what the sun looks like.

The bus came on time today and the ride was pleasant. We would have had a faster ride if some people hadn't forgotten where they placed their Charlie Card and stood in the front of the bus patting themselves feverishly, but all was forgiven once we arrived at the T stop before 7:15. There's normally a subway train that's pulling into the Malden Center station right at quarter past seven...and it's been a cruel joke lately because the bus has been arriving at the station at the exact same time and we bus passengers get to see the T roll out just as we get to the top of the platform. Not today.

The T was packed. There was a bit of pushing and shoving at Downtown Crossing...but no fisticuffs...and no free stuff at Back Bay. Man, give a rat some cheese once and he'll expect it everyday.

Shift Energy Drink

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Drizzling...40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

First time on the bus this week and the kids aren't on it because of school vacation. We had a new driver who was just as slow and as late as the last one was when she first started. It takes them a few weeks to get broken in, I guess.

A few random notes from the T:

Two strangers were having a conversation on the T. An older lady was asking this young gentleman about the music he was listening to. She told him she liked the song he had blasting through his earphones (Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine") She asked him how many songs he had on his "box". Then, she thanked him for sharing and wished him a good day. He wished her the same.

Just in case your ticker stops ticking, there is an emergency defibrillator in the Back Bay T station.

Also at Back Bay - Two people were handing out free energy drinks. It's called Shift and it's produced by Stonyfield Farms. It's a yogurt-based drink, but lighter. The Power Punch version has a strong cherry aroma and taste and according to the label, it also has açaí puree and organic ginseng in it.

Unfortunately, I don't feel energized. I think I will go get my coffee now.

Patriot's Day Nor'easter

Bus Departure Time: N/A
Bus Arrival Time: N/A
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:47
Weather as I call it: Ha Ha. Light rain but high winds. 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 5
Feared for my life: No, but I would have if I had waited for the bus.

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

I was checking my logs and I saw that someone stumbled onto my site looking to see if "the mbta buses run on patriots day". Oh yes, they do...but on a Saturday schedule...which tends to mean less buses than regular weekdays. Due to the winds and rain and the unknown length of time I would need to wait for bus, I got a ride to the T station. Thank you to my wife and son for accompanying me on my trip today.

I read in Starts and Stops there would be more subway trains running today for the marathon. Why they would have less buses but more trains running is a mystery, but I am sure the T has a good reason.

Outside of the windswept rain, I didn't have that much trouble getting to work. We'll see how if getting home will be tougher.

Stuck Arms Fire Alarms

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Overcast but not raining. 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: I wondered about my safety.

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

Gym Bag Guy was at the bus stop when I got there this morning. He has been taking the later bus lately. We talked about his experiences with the later (7:05) bus. He doesn't mind waiting a few more minutes for a bus that is less crowded than the earlier (6:57) bus. So when bus came (2 minutes late), he stood there defiantly. The bus driver questioned me if he was going to wait for the next bus. I told her that he was and she closed the doors.

She's getting bolder with every drive. Today she blew by a few bus stops that had large groups of people waiting. I think she's getting the hint and allowing the second bus to pick up the slack since it's right behind her.

It was a replay of yesterday once we got to the T station: The train was pulling in just as we stopped. What a tease.

Some gentleman decided to hold the doors open in the train's last car at Downtown Crossing, delaying our trip. He was holding the doors open for so long that the conductor was calling for security. I guess he stopped because we got moving soon after that.

At Back Bay, there were fire alarms blinking and screaming everywhere. Firemen were walking around and the T gates were wide open. I wasn't sure what was happening; I didn't smell smoke or see any flames. It still made me feel uneasy. This station doesn't need any more emergencies.

Stepping It Up a Bit

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, but it's better than the storm the weather peeps were predicting
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Not today

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

The bus driver has been getting a little more aggressive. She is still a little late, but once she picks me up...she is starting to make other stops as short as possible. She pulls away from the curb as soon as the last person is on. I like it.

I also can't wait for next week. No school...which means less riders.

When we got to the T station, the Orange line had just pulled in. The next one wasn't far behind...and glided down tracks all the way into Boston without any "standing bys" or "hesitations".

No Singing No Dancing

Bus Departure Time: 7:01
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:44
Weather as I call it:
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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

Sometime the commute is just a commute...getting from point A to point B.

This morning, there was nobody singing to the whole subway car. There were no drunk Sox fans talking loudly about how pissah Dice-K is.

There's always tomorrow.

Fenway Opening Day 2007

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:13
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:44
Weather as I call it: Sunny, less windy, 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Not today

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

Today is, in my opinion, Holiday #2 of the holy trinity of Boston spring holidays: Opening day at Fenway Park. (#1 being St. Patty's Day and #3 being Patriots Day) There is always a few co-workers who don't seem to make it to work on Opening day...not sure why.

This morning I had no problems with the bus...well, the problems I had were so small that they are not worth typing about. It came on time and there were no big delays getting to the T.

The T must have been late...or there was an interruption in service since there was a large crowd at the Malden T station...and there larger crowds at every stop heading inbound on the line.

No matter, plenty of entertainment: Some guy stepped on at Wellington and loudly wished a "Good Morning" to ev'rybody!

He then sang a few lines from the Rascals' "A Beautiful Morning" and "You Are My Sunshine" which apparently is Louisana's State Song. Nobody looked like they were appreciative of his vocal stylings. They were busy reading their books or their Metros, but it made me chuckle.

There was a musician playing songs in the State St. T station, and our serenader got off to sit on the bench next to him. As the T doors closed, the musician was finishing performing the song "Wade in the Water" and it was met with thunderous applause from our T singing friend.

Unofficial holidays are fun. Go Sox!

Commentary From the Back Seats

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny, Cold, Windy
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Not this day

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

The only thing that was annoying today was the weather. The calendar says Spring, but the wind and temperature says late November. I know thousands of other people in this area have commented about this topic, but I think it's about time we had some warmer weather.

Hey Mother Nature, just passing that idea by ya. Let it sit with you a while. Get back to me when you have had some time to process it. Maybe we can come to an agreement.

On the bus, there were two women who were provided color commentary for the bus ride. When they saw people scrambling to get to the bus stop, one of the said, "Ooooop, we got a runner!" When a kid tried to get away with paying 30 cents instead of 60, the other one said "He does this every time!"

It was like watching a DVD with the audio commentary turned on.

Better Friday

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:11
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Sunny but cold. 20s and 15 MPH winds...wha happened?
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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

No school today...so the bus was pretty empty. Gym Bag Guy was asking me if today was going to be an easy commute. I told him, "I think so...we'll see."

Guy got on the bus, and had a problem with his Charlie Ticket...he didn't have enough money...and he held up the bus a bit. I felt bad for him. He became what irked him most about riding the bus.

Theory Proven

Bus Departure Time: 7:05 (no, it wasn't late...I'll explain)
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Craptacular
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

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

Gym Bag Guy and I collectively decided that we were going to wait for the second of the two buses that come by around the 7 o'clock hour. Guy observed the same thing I did: The second bus, even though it comes later, gets to the T station earlier than the first bus. As I mentioned in an earlier post, my theory revolves around a tear in the space/time continuum but I wasn't going to share that with Gym Bag Guy.

Anyway, we didn't get on the first bus and got on the second bus and it worked exactly the way we anticipated. We got to the station faster and got on an earlier T.

Like a wise man once said, "I love it when a plan comes together."

MBTA Bus Fun

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and colder. 30s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope. Cameras were on this bus.

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

The bus came on time for the first time this week. On top of that, to quote the bus driver: "That's the first time all the kids used the right amount of change." So, smooth sailing for the most part.

There was one issue with the bus ride today. The driver ran a red light (well, it wasn't red when her part of the bus went through the intersection). Unfortunately about a half block ahead of us, there was a school bus stopped with its flashing lights on. The line of traffic backed up so far it caused our bus to be stuck in the middle of the intersection. We were beeped at relentlessly...since we were blocking people from going when their light turned green. Other passengers were shouting at the cars beeping with exclamations of "Ah, be quiet!" and "It's not going to make us move."

I knew we had run the red light, but I kept quiet. I didn't want to incite any violence.

Bus Fare Fairness

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, misty, but not windy
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Not today

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

I think I am now on the bus driver's side when it comes to taking time to collect the correct fares. I think there are few kids who have been scamming the system for a while. Now they are facing a driver that makes sure they pay what they should.

So I am now more annoyed at the kids for holding us up on the bus than the driver. She's just trying to do what's right.

Not Like We're in a Hurry

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Cloudy with some mist - 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

I think I might have a new friend on the bus. He's this guy who I have seen over the last two months both going to work and coming home. I don't know his name but he likes to complain about stuff and I listen.

He was at my stop today, which is not the everyday, normal thang...I don't think he has a set schedule like, uh, kooky ol' me.

Our conversation consisted of:

• The stinky weather
  
• Baseball
  
• Is there an earlier bus?
  
• April vacation coming soon which means no high school kids on the bus for a week
  

Then the bus came, and we stopped talking. I don't know this guy's name yet, but let's call him "Gym Bag Guy" for now (he always has a Adidas duffel bag slung over his shoulder). He seems nice enough...and he breaks the stereotype of New Englanders not talking to each other...but maybe he's crazy and he will kill me. Keep reading the blog to find out.

The only real annoying part of the commute was the bus driver's on-going (since last week) interrogation of student and senior riders. She was asking for everyone's ID.

Yes, that's what she is supposed to do...but when you are running late you would think you would try to make up time and conduct an eyeball check of the old lady's age.

When I got to my building, a woman held the elevator for me. After I said, "Thank you," she replied with "Not like we are in a hurry...."

Sound like someone has a case of the Mondays.

Sliding Doors

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:23
T Arrival Time: 7:52
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. Around 40 degrees.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): Meh.
Feared for my life: Not really

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

I had issues this morning. Both the bus and T were packed. Why did this happen? Were people getting going to work earlier today to be able to leave earlier? It doesn't make sense.

Since the Orange line was so packed, I got off at Downtown Crossing and walked up the underground tunnel to Park St. My thought was to take a Green Line train to Copley, which at this time in the morning is pretty empty.

When I got up the stairs, I saw a B Line train in the station and I stepped it up to try and get on before it left.

No dice. I was met with closing doors. It was timed perfectly...like I was the sad sack character in a film about commuting (A summer blockbuster, fo-ah sho-wah!)

I walked away in disgrace and waited for the next train. I should drive to work.

Exact Change

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Same as yesterday. Gusty winds take away from the spring-ness
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): I'll give it a 2 today
Feared for my life: No

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

Did you know we spent four (4) minutes at a bus stop while at least 8 people fumbled with their money for the fare?

Exact change is a virtue.

Did you know that because of this delay the 7:05 bus passed us?

I may have come to the conclusion that I can leave my house later to get to work earlier. How is that possible? Where is the tear in the space/time continuum that makes this possible?

Did you know that I talked myself out of being annoyed by it all?

That's why there is a low score on the annoyance factor above.

Dueling MBTA Buses

Bus Departure Time: 7:04
Bus Arrival Time: 7:21
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:50
Weather as I call it: Sunny, in the 50s but windy
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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

I hate when my bus is just late enough to be on time for the next bus. Then this weird dance takes place when each bus takes turns picking up people at every other stop. It's like a duel between two very large swordspeople.

The T came into the station, stopped, and then didn't open up its doors. The crowds were getting pushy. Then, the train started to move backwards...and then stopped three feet from where it originally opened.

Precision - That's the MBTA way.

Muffled Sound

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:17
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:44
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and in the 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: No

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

We had a new bus driver (well, new to me) that decided she was going to lecture the school kids who didn't have Charlie Cards...or Student Passes...or anything else that is a better, easier, and/or faster payment method as compared to coins.

Although I agree with her that these cards are faster from a standpoint of collecting the fare (it stinks to be behind someone paying with coins when it's raining or snowing out and it delays your shelter from the storm) and cheaper for each ride (60 cents compared to 75 cents), these cards still need to be 'recharged' on a monthly basis...and if it is out of the way to go to the T station and get them recharged with money then maybe it's worth paying an extra 15 cents a ride. I don't know...in any case, we spent 4 minutes at a stop while the bus driver had conversations with everyone paying with coins. When it started to delay my ride, that's when I got annoyed.

The T ride was better...the announcer's voice was hard to make out due to faulty equipment...made her sound like Charlie Brown's teacher.

Watch Your Step

Bus Departure Time: 6:59
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Partly cloudy, 30s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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

Sorta busy for a Monday. Generally, the commute is light due to late risers...but today the bus was filled with people. While I was on the bus, a high schooler stepped on my foot. He said he was sorry. I nodded to let him know there was no issue.

There were a lot of delays on the T...much more that usual. Anytime the T stops between stations, there's a bigger problem than just the normal delays.

TGIFF

Bus Departure Time: N/A
Bus Arrival Time: N/A
T Departure Time: N/A
T Arrival Time: N/A
Weather as I call it: Dude, it's warm
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

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

My wife had a doctor's appointment, so I was late to work today.

Not much to mention for this morning commute...it was quick and painless.

See you next week.

Try To Have a Great Day

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:19
T Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, windy, but temps in the high 30s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

At Haymarket, the T paused for an extra long time for whatever reason. The announcer spoke over the intercom and apologized for the delay. She finished her announcement with thi quip: "Try to have a great day."

Ok. I'll try.

Springy Spring

Bus Departure Time: 6:56
Bus Arrival Time: 7:13
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Cold...definitely subfreezing. The sun is bright tho.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

Winter is officially over and the MBTA is back on time today. The first half of the "hard season" was no problem...pretty mild actually. Then, January came and I think we have been in the deep freeze since then. I think I am ready for better weather.

The only annoying thing today was the cold. Getting a free iced coffee at the Dunk didn't warm me up much.

MBTA Bus Blues

Bus Departure Time: 7:09
Bus Arrival Time: 7:29
T Departure Time: 7:31
T Arrival Time: 7:51
Weather as I call it: Some sun...warmer 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 5
Feared for my life: No

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

So, the bus was really late today...but at least the temperature was tolerable. I got on and I had to stand. At the next stop, 20-25 people got on...which is much larger than the average of 5 people per stop. It was a sight. You could see this crowd from a block away: a teeming mass of commuters vying for position to ensure their entry onto this particular bus.

We were packed for the remainder of the ride...I was standing next to the rear door, so I got off the bus at the stops where a lot of people exited...to get out of the way. When everyone was done exiting, I would hop back on the bus. At the last big stop before the T station, I got off the bus and about half the bus departed. As I was about to hop back on, the driver shut the door on me. I had a split second of panic before he opened the door again.

The T was packed but it ran smoothly...so I give the trip a 5 on the annoyance factor.

Slow Like a James Taylor Song

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:17
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Cold 27 degrees but sunny
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3.5
Feared for my life: No

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

Monday morning and the bus started out ok. I got a seat...but then I noticed a few things. There was a constant beeping coming from the driver's console....and it kept beeping throughout the trip. On top of that, the bus couldn't get out of second gear. So, we slowly churned down the street...and every stop just packed in more peeps.

On the T, we stopped extra long at State Street due to "traffic up ahead". There was a musician singing James Taylor's "You've Got a Friend". After he was finished, the singer stated: "All things are possible when love is present."

The T doors closed and we were on our way.

At a Moment's Notice

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:16
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, colder, windy - another storm's a-coming.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

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

Have you ever wondered why Bostonians or New Englanders in general are so cranky and unfriendly? It's because of the weather. For example, this week we were given a few spring days in a row but later on today we should expect a messy winter storm. How can one be outwardly friendly and trusting when you can't even trust the weather? The outside world keeps us guessing.

The bus was packed with people...When you hear the TV weather guy/gal tell you the evening drive will be a wintery mess, you leave the car at home and take the bus.

Everyone on the T had on their heavy coats, hat, scarves, gloves...we're ready. If the weather changes, we are prepared and can face it at a moment's notice.

I'll Wait For The Next One

Bus Departure Time: 6:56
Bus Arrival Time: 7:11
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cloudy...get darker...Storm's a-coming
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

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

The bus came a little early today and it's been having a good little streak lately. In a week of no school, late risers, and pleasant weather...the bus gets the grade of A for the past four days.

A young lady sat next to me with a heavy scent of vanilla that made me a little queasy. I thought I liked vanilla...but I guess I like the smell of real vanilla...It seems when fragrances are synthesized from chemicals, they have varying results on my head and stomach. Besides, I have been fighting some kind of stomach virus thang lately. I haven't been that hungry since Tuesday...so I know something's wrong. It wasn't so bad that I felt like I had to vomit profusely over everyone on the bus...but just enough to turn my stomach just a bit.

When I got to the T station, the train had been sitting in the station for a while. As I climbed the last step, the tones rang out to signal that the doors were closing.

I didn't run for it. Generally, the T rule is you get on the first available train...no matter how packed it is....because you never know when the next one is coming.

I decided to wait for the next one. My patience was rewarded five minutes later...

Professional Development Day

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:08
T Departure Time: 7:10
T Arrival Time: 7:35
Weather as I call it: Hazy sunshine 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

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

I think we have our first taste of spring today....or maybe its our third taste of spring...I don't know. I lost count.

No high school kids on the bus today. It was a professional development day for the teachers...so no school for the kids...which meant no kids on the bus.

Soon it will be April vacation and summer vacation. Warmer weather is on my mind.