Last Drive Of 2008

Another year down. Another year ahead, hopefully.

See you in 2009.


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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:33
Weather as I call it: Sunny, a light dusting of snow on the ground. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $1.57
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nah

I Wish I Had Taken More Time Off

That's the thing. I don't have time to take off. If that is the one thing about changing jobs, the amount of vacation time doesn't accumulate all that much.

Then you are stuck driving to work when most people are sleeping off their holiday cheer.

At least the roads were empty. I probably could have taken the highway.

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

Departure Time: 7:03
Arrival Time: 7:31
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. Mid 30s.
Shady Gas Price: $1.59
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

Another Holiday Season

I can't believe Christmas is tomorrow. Why the eff am I driving to work?

I have tomorrow and Friday off so I can't complain. I am splitting at 1 today.

Hope you are off too. See you on the roads next Monday.


P.S. My "BRAKE" light was not on today. It's a Festivus Miracle.


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

Departure Time: 6:57
Arrival Time: 7:17 - Highway driving - oh yeah!
Weather as I call it: Rainy. Gray. High 30s
Shady Gas Price: $1.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Bad Signs

I looked down at my dashboard and noticed my "Brake" light was on...rather, the word BRAKE illuminated in red on my dashboard. I engaged and disengaged my parking/emergency brake a number of times to try and make it go away...but it didn't.

My brakes seem to work fine. I think I may need to get them replaced.

Oh, and I think I have scratches on my windshield from when I was scraping the ice and snow this weekend.

Happy holidays!


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

Departure Time: 7:01
Arrival Time: 7:35
Weather as I call it: Cold, sunny.
Shady Gas Price: $1.63
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: Brakes not working could be bad.

Not Just One But Two

We got some snow all right. I think it snowed from 1:30 on Friday until 8:00 PM Sunday night. There may have been a short break in between the two storms but not much.

My ride was ok. Some of the side streets in my neighborhood have not been plowed all that well, but the main roads were pretty clean.

Lots of high snow banks. I am glad I didn't have many intersections to navigate. I couldn't see over many of the banks. I made for pulling into traffic an adventure.

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

Departure Time: 7:00
Arrival Time: 7:31
Weather as I call it: Cold, windy. Snowbound!
Shady Gas Price: $1.65
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: A little nervous at stop signs.

Is It An Emergency?

Everybody was cancelling Christmas in preparation for the storm. I know I am going to get out of work at about 12:30. I can't get away with "working from home" if the streets are ok in the morning.

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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Cold and calm
Shady Gas Price: $1.67
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

In Between

The calm before the storm. I hope I have a half day tomorrow.

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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Clear and cool, mid 30s
Shady Gas Price: $1.67
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10):2
Feared for my life: Nah

First Snow Drive

Yeah, this is more like it. I would rather have some snow slow me up than ice.

I spent a good amount of time brushing snow off of the car just to get it road ready.

The snow was coming down at a pretty good clip. I had to brush off my windshield a couple of times.

Made it to work ok. People were driving sensibly. No one was going fast. It was the way to do it.



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

Departure Time: 7:12
Arrival Time: 7:54
Weather as I call it: Snow!
Shady Gas Price: $1.67
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Reverse To Drive

I pulled out of my driveway to find that there were two SUVs heading up my road - straight at me.

Quick as a bunny, I made the switch from Reverse to Drive and got on my way without having an accident.

School was still out of session in my town. No Buses, no problem.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, high 30s
Shady Gas Price: $1.69 - Bring the price down!
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

A Little Calmer Today

Pretty balmy and breezing when I left the house. The ice and damage seems like a distant memory...at least for me. I know there are lots of people around with no power...hopefully they fix that soon.

No school in a bunch of places too...

The shady gas price needs to come down. It should be $1.60 by now.

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

Departure Time: 7:10
Arrival Time: 7:44
Weather as I call it: Cloudy but 40s
Shady Gas Price: $1.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Ice and The Smell of Pine

I woke up to see the trees coated with ice. Heavy rain was pouring down from the sky, so I had a good feeling about the roads.

The roads weren't icy, just wet...but wettness in some places was terrible. Avoiding huge puddles became a sport.

Many signal lights were not working on my commute. The Drum Hill Rotary went old school and had stop signs up.

Somewhere along my route, there were all these pine tree branches down and my car began to smell of pine. It was quite Christmasy.

Anyway, I got here in one piece...hope you are safe too.

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

Departure Time: 7:06
Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Hard rain, high 30s, lots of branches down.
Shady Gas Price: $1.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: A bit

Soft Cold Rain

Although I was seeing things yesterday, today I was just trying to get through the rain. I have a meeting in the 'Ham (Framingham that is) later on in the morning, but I dropped into the office before I went.

They say that the rain will continue into tomorrow. Might be some icy conditions. Perfect.

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

Departure Time: 7:02
Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Rain, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $1.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Seeing Things

Well you walk out of your house and it is 60+ degrees. The wind is pushing you back. You wonder how many people will blame this temperature fluctuation on their next cold.

Bags were flying. Tarps were rippling. Everywhere I turned I saw something weird and something I thought was something else. I thought the bags were wild animals; the tarp a long python.

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

Departure Time: 7:02
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Light rain, windy, 60s
Shady Gas Price: $1.69
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

New England Weathered

Was it just as cold as it was yesterday? I walked outside and I was imagining that it would be just like yesterday but I was pleasantly surprised that it was not as cold. Maybe I am just used to it.

The car started up with no problem, but it took some time to warm up.

The traffic was light today. The trip went well. I was happy to get to work without any problems.


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

Departure Time: 7:01
Arrival Time: 7:33
Weather as I call it: Cold, but not so cold.
Shady Gas Price: $1.71 – Down doobie doo down down
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

Lots Of Cars

This morning had to be the coldest in a while. It was 15 degrees outside my house. The car took a little while to turn over. I let it warm up for a good 10 minutes.

The roads to work were filled with cars. The usual places where things tend to slow up were much slower. The line of cars extended further; where there usually would be 4 cars, there were 12. I couldn’t see an accident. I couldn’t see a school bus. More people were on the road. Just riding along with me.

More people didn’t slow me down much. Once I got going, I made up some time.

Sometimes you just need to keep working at it, and the roads clear.

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

Departure Time: 7:08
Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Cold, very cold
Shady Gas Price: $1.75
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

More Grooming

At the same stop light where I saw some dude combing his hair, today there was a woman who was donning her eyes with mascara. I can't believe I just typed 'donning'. I don't know if I even used that verb correctly. Screw it. I am going with it. Anyway, once she was done with her make-up application, she looked back at me...or at least I think she did...and she made me feel like I was invading her privacy. I think I am really going crazy. There's just no way she felt that way. It wasn't as if I was doing anything unusual; I was looking forward waiting for the light to change. She just happened to be there in front of me. I think I need the weekend to rest. My mind is fried. How's yours? Have fun. Be safe.


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

Departure Time: 7:07
Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Sunny, Colder, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $1.79
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah...feared for my sanity.

McMorning

Stopped at the golden arches to get a little breakfast...for no other reason outside of the fact that I had a few dollar bills in my pocket. I wish I put money away or something rather than just feel them burning into my leg and need to spend them on some food.

I was pretty hungry. I didn't eat breakfast at home. I got an egg mcmuffin and a medium coffee. The Newman's Own cup still talks about Paul in the present tense. Sad.


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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny, a little windy. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $1.79
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: no

Combing Your Hair

There was this guy in a car in front of me who was combing his hair over and over again. He was checking himself out in his rear view mirror, not sure if he was happy with his results.

The shady gas price is really low. Not sure when I saw the price this low.

Left the house early…but had to scrape the frost off all the windows of my car. So, it wasn’t as early as I thought.


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

Departure Time: 7:00
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $1.79
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Credit Card Prices

I learned that there are still some gas stations out there that charge a different price for people using a credit/debit card. One of the stations was boasting a $1.75per gallon price along my trip to work. This price only applies if you paid in cash.

The price for plastic payers is $1.81, the same as the shady gas price.

Foiled again!

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

Departure Time: 7:06
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny cool 40s
Shady Gas Price: $1.81
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Getting Back To The Drive

I took some time off...but now I am back.

The gas price has dropped even more. The shady price is $1.83 but I saw $1.75 in my travels.

There was a dead skunk on the side of the road near Chelmsford Center. It was fresh.

Rain and clouds made things very dark...and made for tough driving.

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

Departure Time: 7:01
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Rainy, dark and cold.
Shady Gas Price: $1.83
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Supporting Local Businesses

Stopped at the Riverview Restaurant in good ol' Billerica, MA to get a breakfast sandwich and a coffee.

I could have stopped at a chain, but stopped there instead. Not bad.


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

Departure Time: 7:02
Arrival Time: 7:34
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cold. Nice pattern we got here.
Shady Gas Price: $2.05
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Acting Funny But I Don't Know Why

I got up a little later than usual today. I thought it would be good for me to get 20 more minutes of sleep.

The sun has been really bright over the past few days. I wear my shades and pull down the visor on the driver’s side and go. It’s nice to feel the sun on my face while it still has some heat. In the wintertime, the sun doesn’t feel like it gives off much heat. Enjoy it while it lasts.

My car has been acting a little funny in this cold. I have a funny feeling I will need to bring it in to get serviced soon.

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

Departure Time: 7:18
Arrival Time: 7:52
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cold.
Shady Gas Price: $2.11
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Cold But No Frost

Cold again this morning. People still complaining about this cold snap. I don't know. I move from hot house to hot car to hot office.

I don't have any complaints.

I had some school bus traffic ahead of me. If I leave at 7:04, no bus. If I leave at 7:06, bus.

It's that specific.

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

Departure Time: 7:06
Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cold
Shady Gas Price: $2.11
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Frosty Scraping

There was a layer of frost on every window on my car. I had to take a few minutes to scrape it all off. My rear defroster did a good job removing most of the frost from the back window, but I took a few seconds to swipe it all off.

Everyone is complaining about the cold today at the office, but when I was out there I didn’t think it was that bad.

Once it gets below zero, that’s when I start complaining.

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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny. Frosty. High 20s
Shady Gas Price: $2.13 – should be lower
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Short Stop

Left early on this Monday morning to get to the office in time to get stuff prepared for the 9AM meeting. I stopped for a short time to stick a few envelopes in the mail box down the street. Apparently that short stop was enough to get me behind a few school buses.
I had to stop a few times early in my trip, and that set off a chain reaction of other stops later on.

I got to the office with plenty of time, but it does goes to show that just a brief delay can have a big impact.

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

Departure Time: 7:00
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cool.
Shady Gas Price: $2.13
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Agent Of Change

Within the past 2 months of this new commute, work has pretty much completed on two bridges on Route 4. That is progress.

Drizzle and fog made the drive dreary. Little to no traffic made it tolerable.

Have a good weekend. I am soooo ready for it.


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

Departure Time: 7:02
Arrival Time: 7:33
Weather as I call it: Drizzle, fog. 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.19...or as they had it posted: $21.9.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Fancy Meeting You Here

Now that I have moved to a town where a few of my friends live, I run into them every once in a while...like this morning.

My friend's wife was dropping off her boy at her sister's house...so I saw her as she drove by.

I got some gasoline for the car today. First time I have filled up for under 30 bucks in a while.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy. High 30s
Shady Gas Price: $2.21
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

The Buses Must Have Been Late

School buses. They can change your commute. I got behind a few this morning. More than usual.

I don't understand why they came out today. I encounter one every once in the while, but today it seemed like they were all out in force.

They must have been late. There were many quick stops for me.


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

Departure Time: 7:03
Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cold, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $2.21
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Remember The Vets

They served for us. I am keeping good thoughts for my grandfather and my uncle.

Not many people driving today...took the highway...

Very quick and incident free. Some people swerved between lanes to go that much faster. Not necessary really and most people agreed...everyone drove with each other.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:26
Weather as I call it: Sunny, cold, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $2.21 Wow.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

I Was Made For Early Driving

Left the house early. We have a meeting early on Monday mornings now. I want to make sure I have everything ready for it. Monday's are generally light in terms of traffic.

There is a weird intersection in Bedford that has no lights. I think it is where Route 4 and 225 split. Anyhoo, a lot of confusion since there is plenty of people being nice...I think I got beeped at...but I am not sure. I was half awake.

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

Departure Time: 6:54
Arrival Time: 7:25
Weather as I call it: Cloudy...40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.35
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Wet Leaves Are Dangerous

I am not kidding. Wet leaves are dangerous. There was a big pile of them on my street and I skidded a bit. Wake up! Wet leaves are dangerous!

I have never had that issue before. It was surprising. I don't think they had that many leaves in Malden. Now that I am out in the country, there's new hazards to be aware of...

Geez!

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

Departure Time: 7:02
Arrival Time: 7:34
Weather as I call it: Some rain. Wet LEAVES! 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.36
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Somewhat.

Drizzle and Fizzles

I am so glad I wasn't on 95 when that tanker filled with airplane fuel flipped over.
That sounded like a nightmare.

The rain did slow some stuff down...but nothing too bad.

The gas price is still going down.

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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Light rain...crappy.
Shady Gas Price: $2.39
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

There Could Be More

Record turnout for voters yesterday...but it was only 64% of all eligible voters...

I don't get it.

Happy for the most part with all the results.

Ride was good. The coffee was better.


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

Departure Time: 6:54
Arrival Time: 7:30
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, cool, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.43
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

So I Voted

I left the house early thinking that it would take me 10 extra minutes to vote...yeah, that didn't happen.

The line was out the door...and around the school.

It moved pretty quickly but it was more than 10 minutes.

I voted and it felt good. A woman behind me said, "There should be this many people for every election..." I agreed with her.

We should come out and vote for every election.

After I voted, I got my free cup of coffee at Starbucks. Yay.

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

Departure Time: 6:50
Arrival Time: 7:55
Weather as I call it: Foggy...hazy sun. 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.45
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah.

I Shouldn't Have Stopped For Gas

Well...I had to stop for gas...if I didn't, I wouldn't have gotten to work.

The delay timeshifted my commute to a later one...and I experience a larger number of cars on the roads. It was a bit jarring. I was really slow in my progression throughout.

Tomorrow will be interesting too...because I plan to vote before I go to work.

It will be aiight tho...I would rather be later than out of gas...or without the privilege to vote.

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

Departure Time: 7:00
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cold, frost, 30s...some sun
Shady Gas Price: $2.47
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

Not A Scary Drive At All

Happy Halloween, everybody.

Made the ride in just less than 30 minutes without speeding too much.

Wow.

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

Departure Time: 7:00
Arrival Time: 7:29
Weather as I call it: Cold, frost on the windshield, 30s
Shady Gas Price: $2.55
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

I Saw The Bird

Not sure why, but I saw a middle finger from one of my fellow drivers this morning. I don’t think it was meant for me…but it could have been.

It happened at the Drum Hill Intersection…formally the Drum Hill rotary.

I was waiting at a red light and there was a woman behind me. I think that this guy was trying to get around us. Now, I didn’t move…so I am guessing his beef was with the woman behind me…but I heard a horn blast and then a middle finger pressed against a window.

Good morning to you too.

Tried to get it under 30 minutes today…not quite.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:34
Weather as I call it: Cold...sunny...30s
Shady Gas Price: $2.55
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah

Beating The School Bus

I have figured that happiness is beating the school bus. When I am passing kids waiting for the bus...I know I have beat the bus.

That's a good thing.

Saw a yellow, new school Mustang trying to pass people on a one lane road. He tried but failed.

I was looking at an old gas receipt from last month. I was paying a whole dollar more for a gallon of gas.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:38
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, but some sun breaking through by the end. 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.57
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Gray Day And Ride

Pretty smooth ride. More cars than yesterday. Lots of red lights.

I am feeling a little more awake...but the darkness is affecting me a bit.


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

Departure Time: 7:06
Arrival Time: 7:40
Weather as I call it: Gray, some fog, cool, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.59
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Need To Wake Up

A little groggy at the wheel this morning. There was no dosing off but I was feeling some heavy lids.

I think I got into a little coffee dependancy this weekend.

Need to break out of it...do some jumping jacks. Wake up without stimulants.

We gain an hour of sleep this weekend. That'll help too.

Drive was good. Pretty normal for a Monday.

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

Departure Time: 7:09
Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunny, Cool, 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.65
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

I Like Traffic Lights

I must have hit every red light today....and I got behind a tractor.

Nice...but traffic was light and I was quick and agile.

Have a nice weekend, everybody.

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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Sunny...a litte frost on the car. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $2.72
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Looking Forward To Winter

No slick roads today.

No slow pokes.

No school buses.

No blinding sun either.

Just some other travelers and me on the back roads. The trees are starting to look a little bare.

Winter is going to be interesting...

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Cloudy. 35F
Shady Gas Price: $2.74
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Slick Roads

Had a little bit of a close call this morning because of slick roads. Wet asphalt mixed with drenched fallen leaves makes for a slippery ride.

A few cars braked unexpectedly in front of me...causing me to slam on my own brakes.

I skidded a bit. It wasn't too terrifying, but enough to get my blood a pumpin'...

It reminded me to be ever vigilant on the roads. You gotta keep your head in the game.


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

Departure Time: 7:08
Arrival Time: 7:44
Weather as I call it: Rainy and cool. 40s
Shady Gas Price: $2.75
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: A little bit.

I Dislike Slow Pokes

If there is one thing about back roads, it’s the increased chance that you will get behind a slow driver. I got behind one today. Not only was this person slow, but ultra-courteous. They stopped for people who were just thinking of crossing the street. They made up their mind once my slow-moving friend stopped for them.

I support being courteous. I support going the speed limit…but driving below the speed limit and stopping for every little thing is overkill…and something I cannot support.

Thankfully, they turned off before too long…just long enough to get mentioned in the blog.

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

Departure Time: 7:06
Arrival Time: 7:39
Weather as I call it: Sunny...extreme sun! Blinding at times.
Shady Gas Price: $2.77
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: No

End Of The Season

Not just baseball...at least for the Sox...but any trace of summer either. We had our first frost last night.

I had to scrape my windows and windshield for the first time in a long time.

It added some time to my trip. It took me a while to get all the windows cleared.

Roads were pretty good, a little busier than usual due to my late start.

Gas seems to be tumbling down too...for now.

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

Departure Time: 7:11
Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunny...cold. 30s
Shady Gas Price: $2.81
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

I Stay On The Road

I don't care if you are not supposed to pass on the right.

I stay on the road.

Just play nice and we'll be all right.

I'm trying to get to where I'm going.


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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Sunny. 45F
Shady Gas Price: $2.93
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Honking Horns and Blinking High Beams

...will never hurt me. We had a little rain this morning...so naturally people were driving much slower.

Somewhere in Bedford, Route 4 is wide enough for two lanes of traffic...but it is not marked with white dashed lines.

A car was stopped at a light...we'll call them "the first car" Right behind them, there was someone who had their blinker on to turn left. I made a proactive move and shifted right...and drove up to the white line of the intersection and proceed to wait right next to the first car at the red light.

When the light turned green, I pulled away. "The first car" took offense and beeped their horn. They then flashed their bright headlights at me to emphasize that they were not pleased with my move. I tapped my gas pedal with three quick pulses...to tell them "I Don't Care."

Silly First Car. I did nothing wrong.

Look at the time compared to yesterday. No coffee and muffin to slow me down...just rain and slow traffic.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:39
Weather as I call it: Light rain in spots, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $2.99
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Timing is Everything

I think I have learned that if I leave close to 7:10, I am behind school buses. If not, it's pretty free and clear.

I even stopped for a little coffee and muffin at a local breakfast n' lunch place. The time I took to get my sweet treats has not been omitted from my trip duration.

Still, pretty good time.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:39
Weather as I call it: Mostly sunny, 50s
Shady Gas Price: $3.02
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Buses And Gas Prices

Back to the back roads and it was busy. There were a lot of early risers driving along with me.

I got behind and in front of some school buses. It slowed some of my ride down.

I might add another shady gas price to the template. We'll see.


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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny - mid 40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Thanks Chris

Just enough people have the day off today so that my drive to work was as problem free as possible.

It amazing how much time is cut from the trip when you ride with 25% of the cars you usually ride with.

It's good to know. Back to back roads tomorrow. It will be awful.


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

Departure Time: 7:06
Arrival Time: 7:26
Weather as I call it: Mostly sunny, 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

Nice Country Drive

Back roads are the way to go if you can wake up early enough to get in front of the buses.

With the leaves changing and little traffic on the roads, my drive to work reminded me of a leisurely drive in the country...Vermont maybe...

I do not have Columbus day off. I will be taking the highway (if I don't see any snarls before I leave the house) since the traffic will be light...I should compare times...since it doesn't get any better than this...


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

Departure Time: 7:03
Arrival Time: 7:34
Weather as I call it: Sunny...very bright in some spots...40s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nah

What Slows Me Down Now

Now that I am Mr. Back Roads Guy, I have a few things that slow me down in the morning.

People driving cautiously for whatever reason...
School buses...
A traffic light or two.

If I can handle these things, I will be ok.



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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny and mild. 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Traffic Again

I must have been lucky the first few weeks of my new job. I was lulled into an understanding that the merge of Route 3 and 95 wasn't so bad...

The past two days, it's been awful. I am about to give up and take backroads from now on.

It's tough...because the highway..when it is cooperating...is the faster drive.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:52
Weather as I call it: Sunny...colder 35F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

Rollovers

I saw it on the traffic report this morning, there was a rollover on 128 North in Lexington. I felt I was ok…since I use 128 South for one exit…

I did not realize that Route 3 would be affected in a major way. It was. I was in dead stop traffic for a while.

I learned my lesson. Anytime there is an accident in the area, find a different way to get to work. Backroads are just as good.

I hope the people involved in the accident are ok.

UPDATE: There was a fatality...Boston.com reported.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 8:06
Weather as I call it: Sunny. Very sunny..but cold. 37F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: No

Landmarks

I got a pretty early start today…all things considered. I was very tired this morning and I was bumping into things just to get out of the door.

There needs to be some landmarks that I can report for each post.

I am still trying to figure it out.


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

Departure Time: 7:10
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cool. I gotta start wearing a jacket.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Light Traffic Friday

Or at least on the back roads...I was able to drive with the greatest of ease...

Not too many people on the road...No buses to hold up traffic. It went extremely well.

I think Friday may be the day to drive the backroads to work.

Have a good weekend. Should be a good one to get out and enjoy the autumn weather.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Sunny...but cooler...45F Yikes
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

It's Hard To Compare

So today I took some back roads to get onto Route 3 a little further south from where I usually pick it up. I don't think it matters. It's hard to compare, but my trip took longer today than it did yesterday.

Even though it's hard to compare, I feel like the fastest way to work is rolling down the highway the whole way...even with the traffic.



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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:44
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. Cool. 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Someday He Will Be Caught

Do ever drive down the street with a guy in a black pickup truck who thinks the rules of the road apply to everyone else but him? Yeah?

That’s what I encountered this morning. This guy felt like turn-only lanes and red lights were for the rest of us.

Do you ever hope that this guy will continue to do this type of stuff until they drive by a cop? Yeah?

That’s what happened today too…but he straightened up right before his passed the trooper’s car.

Too bad. Soon though, he’ll be caught…


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

Departure Time: 7:10
Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Light rain...cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah

Free Way

I went back to the highway and it didn't really ruin my day. I think I had to get back to my original route. I may throw in a variation here or there, but for now I feel like I can drive to work this way and it will be ok.

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

Departure Time: 7:11
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Rain, Back Roads, And Traffic

I saw we had rain falling from the skies this morning so it was back to the back roads this morning. Although I avoided a lot of traffic, my trip was a little longer than what it was on Friday. I think other people had the same idea I had.

The bummer about the back roads is the intermittent satellite radio signal I encounter driving down them.

I think it might be back to the highway for me tomorrow.


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

Departure Time: 7:10
Arrival Time: 7:52
Weather as I call it: Light rain throughout
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah

Took The Back Road

So I was adventurous today...I did take some back roads to get to work...and I learned that they get me to work in as much time as the highway.

Pros: Less stress. Less stop and go.

Cons: School buses. More trees to block my satellite radio signal.

It's good to have options. Not sure which one will be my route of choice. I have a weekend to think it over.

See you on Monday.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Rain, pretty steady...
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Did I Save Time?

So I took some back roads to get to the Route 129 exit of Route 3...Not sure I saved time...I saved some wear and tear on my car and psyche by avoiding some stop-n-go traffic, but I think my trip lasted just as long. I wonder how taking Route 4 all the way down will be?

Maybe that is an experiment for tomorrow.



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

Departure Time: 7:08
Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Partly Cloudy, cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Time To Shake It Up

I think I am going to try a different way to get to work tomorrw. I have found that traffic starts to ease up around the 129 exit on Rte. 3 south in the morning. I can get to that exit pretty easily from my house...

I think it's on!

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

Departure Time: 7:08
Arrival Time: 7:50
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool...40s when I left my house.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Slow Down On Hartwell Ave

Now I remember why I don't like driving to work. Most times I do. Today is one of those days where I wish I were delayed on a train somewhere....

Just joking.

There was a big traffic jam in the Hartwell Ave. area in Lexington, MA. We were just stuck there. There was no movement...and no explanation. I kept seeing emergency vehicles rolling out of the area...but no more information.

I tried using a shortcut to get around the traffic...but got lost and scared. Traffic did let up eventually and I did get into work...

Man, I hope this was a just a fluke.


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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 8:12
Weather as I call it: Sunny...cool...50
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 6
Feared for my life: No

Like A Spring

Ahhhh…

After a weekend of moving and unpacking, I was ready for the new commute. I got out the door without too many distractions and headed out to good ol’ Route 3…

It started out ok…but then the volume got heavier and heavier…to the point where it was stop and go…and I thought to myself…”This isn’t good…”

But then, the traffic started to ease out and the speeds started to increase. It felt like the coils of a spring expanding after being contracted for too long.

It’s a Monday…so I think I wasn’t on the road with the majority of the weekend warriors…but it was a good first day.


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

Departure Time: 7:06
Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Overcast and cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Get Ready For Version 3.1

I got word from my mortgage officer that we are clear to close tomorrow...so it looks like this is the last of my Malden to Lexington commutes.

Get ready for some Route 3 nightmares! I am out tomorrow..Wish me luck on the closing.

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

Departure Time: 7:07
Arrival Time: 7:49
Weather as I call it: Sunny...60F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Simpler Times

Like the comment in my last post suggested...we all long for simpler times.

The driving to work is pretty simple lately. Sure, there's backups here and there...but no awful traffic jams. We are always moving eventually.

Hopefully if we close on the house, next week I have another commute...get settled into it...and add things to the recap like a "paper guy".

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

Departure Time: 7:10
Arrival Time: 7:52
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool...58F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10):2
Feared for my life:Nope

3 Years Old

Driving To Work: The Blog is 3 years old today. Happy birthday, Blog.

3 jobs in 3 years...three different commutes...it will be four when I move...hopefully that commute will last a long time.

Thanks for hanging in there.

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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. Cooler than yesterday...just 60F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

I Am Finding Shortcuts

Sorry there was no update on Friday. I had to report to jury duty...so no driving to work...more like driving to Superior Court.

I didn't get impanelled so here I am.

I am finding short cuts…yes…I am evolving.

Anytime you see jams on your way to work, there are always these peeps in front of you who veer off the main road…

You think to yourself, “They must know a shortcut…they must know a way around this mess…”

If I were more impulsive, I would follow them. Instead, I pull up a map and see if it is indeed a shortcut.

Sometimes yes…? Most times no.



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

Departure Time: 7:05
Arrival Time: 7:50
Weather as I call it: Sunny, HUMID
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

I Heard Something

I didn’t get enough sleep last night. I woke up around 3:45…and then I got out of bed because I had heard “something”. It sounded like there was a door opening in our house. I had to check it out. After a blurry-eyed yet thorough inspection, I came to the conclusion I was mistaken.

I didn’t fall asleep right away…I think I fell asleep 20 minutes before my alarm went off. Oooof!

I mention my lack of sleep because it did delay my departure time. Things take longer when you are half awake.

Commute was less congested than yesterday. I was happy about that….


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

Departure Time: 7:14
Arrival Time: 7:55
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool. 60F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Failed Strategy

I thought if I left my house earlier today, it would mean I would really cut down on my travel time. This thought was proved wrong today.

There were a few things I didn’t account for…one was the commuter rail that runs through Melrose. Since it crosses over a street I use to get onto 93, I was delayed a little bit there.

Then there were just weird pockets of traffic where there usually isn’t any. Not sure what caused them (no visible signs of a breakdown, accident, or rogue crosswalk officer), but it really slowed me down.

Again, my commute will change in a week and a half….so I can’t really get attached to it.


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

Departure Time: 7:04
Arrival Time: 7;48
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cooler High 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

Vision Of The Future

Man, what a difference a day makes. So weird. I left the same time…but there was just so many more people on the roads…and because of that…things took a bit longer…not as long as I thought though…just 9 minutes more.

I saw a car fire on Route 3. I didn’t see it in person. It was on the news...big car fire…one lane of traffic going by…not good. That’s where I will be in two weeks. YEAH!

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

Departure Time: 7:13
Arrival Time: 7:59
Weather as I call it: Partly cloudy..rain's a-coming...humid.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Monday Is A Good Driving Day

I like Mondays. I feel that most people are still in bed when I am on the road. I don’t vary my schedule….but it’s pretty clear others do…unless peeps just don’t work on Mondays…which is possible.


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

Departure Time: 7:13
Arrival Time: 7:50
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool. 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Woke Up Late Got In Early

I didn't set my alarm...I forgot...

I got up at 6:50 and quickly got myself together. I left later than I expected…but traffic was light and I got in right before 8. I guess some people had today off or had even later starts than me.

Have a good weekend....Stay dry.


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

Departure Time: 7:23
Arrival Time: 7;57
Weather as I call it: Sunny and muggy
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

Learning A Bit More

I am getting better at my commute. I am learning the slow patches...the fast patches. I am remembering that people don't use their blinkers when you need them to use them...like when you are waiting to take a left turn.

Good times.

Not getting used to it though...it will change in less than 3 weeks.

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

Departure Time: 7:17
Arrival Time: 8:01
Weather as I call it: Sunny and a little more humid
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Still Working It Out

I left a lot earlier today...but it being the official first day of school for a lot of towns and cities, it was a lot busier.

I was much better at driving today. It was more the volume of cars that was slowing me up. Maybe it will be less once everybody settles into their rhythm.

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

Departure Time: 7:13
Arrival Time: 7:55
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Back To Driving To Work

Hi there!

First day on the new job and back to driving to work. Not much to report...I am a little rusty around the exit and entrance ramps of highways. 93N to 95S is a lot of fun. I almost hit someone coming off of 95...

Outside of that...it was smooth. I need to lock in my regular times and observances.

I like Mach III.


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

Departure Time: 7:51
Arrival Time: 8:33
Weather as I call it: Sunny and mild
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Mach III

Today was my last bus ride...Today was my last T ride to work...for now at least.

I am changing jobs...Starting on Tuesday, I will be commuting to Lexington from Malden...A car seems to be the best mode of transport...so driving to work the blog will be about driving to work again.

Later on in September, my family will be moving...so the blog will have to change again. The commute will be different.

Stay tuned.

I told Mike, my commuting comrade for the last 18 months, about my changes. He wished me luck. I wished him the same.

It seems weird to be closing this chapter...seems like it came pretty quickly.
I will miss the scenery here in the Back Bay. I will miss the experience of the T...it was always a source of good blog material.

Now we must move forward. See you on the roads on Tuesday.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny and pleasant.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 0
Feared for my life: Celebrated my life.

Full On School Kids

I have to say, last year was worse.

All the high school kids had to report to classes today.

They were all jammed on the bus...but last year, I barely was able to get on...This year, I blazed a trail to the back and sat down. Pretty good.

There was a woman standing in front of me. She was trying to open the emergency exit hatch at the top of the bus. I really don't know why she was doing that.

Maybe she was hot. No matter, I didn't think it was a good idea for her to play with AN EMERGENCY EXIT HATCH.

She was also yelling at the bus driver: "What are you stopping? You're not getting anybody to get on. Keep going!"

This is my second to last MBTA trip to work. The blog goes into Mach 3 starting next Tuesday.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:11
Bus Arrival Time: 7:31
T Departure Time: 7:32
T Arrival Time: 7:53
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool. Getting used to this...!
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah

It's Getting Good

As the days roll along, the high school students keep trickling in. The bus is really getting full. There is only space in the back to stand. It's really sweet.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7;46
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool...more of the delightful same
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Two For Tuesday

I love the last few weeks of the T. Crowded buses...filled with high school students. Crowded Orange Line...filled with people who are not on vacation any more.

Two for Tuesday!


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:30
T Arrival Time: 7:51
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

Choo Choo Charlie

"Choo-choo Charlie had a plenty good band but he couldn't understand why no one would go..."

There were freshman girls on the bus...giggling and talking on their cell phones.

I just looked up when the first day of class will be for the high schoolers.

Looks like all students are to report to school on Thursday.

I don't think the bus schedule goes back to normal time until after the holiday.

Thursday is going to be good.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:48
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. Warm
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

My Fast Morning

We had a new bus driver this morning. He certainly had some pep. We arrived just as the Orange had pulled into Malden Center station. I ran for it and got on.

Today was my fast morning.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Sunny and mild
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

My Slow Morning

The bus arrived at Malden Station just in time. The Orange Line train was rolling into the station. Now if I had wanted to run for it, I would have made the train.

This morning was my slow morning.

I didn't feel like it.

I waited for the next train...which was delayed by a disabled train up ahead.

Hey, it was my slow morning. I didn't know until I got on the bus.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:11
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:33
T Arrival Time: 7:58
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool. Probably 58 degrees.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope - too slow.

Winding Down

I know this is just one day in late August, but that feel of summer winding down was in the air this morning. It just felt cool and you got that feeling...if though you tried to talk your mind out of thinking it...that summer was over.

Boo...

I am winding down something else too...my regular use of the MBTA to get to work. All shall be revealed soon.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:11
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cool. Fall like.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Under Her Breath

The conductor on the Orange Line said something like, "Good God" under her breath. Even though she meant to say it just to herself, she had the mic on so the whole train heard it. The woman in scrubs next to me found it very funny. She made me laugh too.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:11
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:27
T Arrival Time: 7:48
Weather as I call it: Sunny. 70.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3 Bus was real slow today.
Feared for my life: No

Dry Cleaning

I had never seen this before...but some guy was hanging his dry cleaning on the horizontal pole on the Orange Line. He had a couple of shirts that he didn't want to touch the floor so he hung them up.

Sure, it took up a couple of seats but no one seemed to mind. His shirts stayed clean.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:24
T Departure Time: 7:27
T Arrival Time: 7:48
Weather as I call it: Sunny. Nice.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Smoggy Back Bay Station

Is it just me or has there been a thick haze in Back Bay station lately?

It's a little stifling in there. Once you walk up the stairs from the Orange Line platform, you start to feel the air getting heavier...start to smell some smoggy odors.

Soon, you're running for the door because you can't breathe.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Well, the whole hard to breathe thing wasn't good.

Round Fiery Orb In The Sky

I was all alone at the bus stop today. I thought it was some holiday that I didn't know about.

Something else I didn't know about...what happened to 9Neighbors?

I put their widget on my site and now it's not working.

I checked the site and it's gone.

Hey, wha' happened?

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:24
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny, mid-60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Finally Getting Some Rain

It's best to read the title of this post in the dryest tone you can muster.

It's a good thing we don't have to worry about drought this summer. I mean, that's one less thing to worry about. We certainly don't have to worry about the lawn turning brown this summer.

Sorry, got a little wet waiting for the bus.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:26
T Departure Time: 7:31
T Arrival Time: 7:52
Weather as I call it: Light rain
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah

At Least I Didn't Get Rained On

Ah! Another beautiful New England summer morning. Gray and cool. At least it wasn't raining when I was at the stop.

Too close couple on the bus this morning. I think we were all "this close" to PDA (and I don't mean a personal digital assistant).

I had to stand on the Orange Line...plus there was a disabled car which made space tight.

I did a good job swaying with the crowds. It was like we were at a really good concert...but really bored by it at the same time.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Gray, damp, cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

Not Satisfied With Summer

Summer is a rainy mess this year. Thunderstorms. Rain. Wha' happened?

You look at the calendar and the days are clicking down.

Hopefully we have a warm September.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:09
Bus Arrival Time: 7:24
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Cloudy. Threat of rain
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Analyzing Bus Behavior

There was a lot of checking watches at the bus stop today. I think peeps are starting to really pay attention to the bus departure time. Certainly, we are supposed to pick up the bus around 7:06....but I think the bus is leaving later...

Maybe this subject is what people feel okay talking about at the stop. On the bus, we are all in this together.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:11
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:26
T Arrival Time: 7:47
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Grumblings At The Bus Stop

Quite a crowd at the bus stop today and they all had something to say.

I think they have had it with the summer schedule and can't wait for it to end...which should only be in a few weeks.

The fall schedule will bring...well...fall. Colder temps and snow will follow that.

I would rather hold on to this time of year for as long as we can.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:11
Bus Arrival Time: 7:22
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. Dry air. Comfortable
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Sleepwalking Sleeptalking

Man, I have had some bouts with insomnia lately. I was up on Saturday and Sunday nights...making this morning a fuzzy trip. I think if I were driving, I would have made myself more awake. When you have other people getting you from place to place, you don't really need to be that conscious.

I have no idea how the commute went...but here's the regular stats.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny. I think.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Didn't feel a thing.

If It Didn't Cost So Much

...I would probably drive into work everyday. I would pay the toll for the Tobin bridge and pay for parking in the Back Bay and pay for gas fillup every week (because...as you have probably heard...it's kinda expensive nowadays).

Yeah. I would love to burn money like that.

But then, driving to work wouldn't be so special if I did it everyday.

Have a good weekend.

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

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: Sorta hazy/foggy/sunny.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

Tourists On The T

There were some tourists on the bus today. You have to respect the courage of strangers trying to navigate their way on the MBTA. There were lots of printed out maps and schedules being passed back and forth. Many shaky questions from some of the tourists too.

"Are they going to announce when we get to Malden Center?"

Don't worry, just follow the rest of us.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:24
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Cloudy...it's looking like the sun may peek out.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3 (tourists pay with bills/change)
Feared for my life: No. I am no xenophobe.

Mystery Liquid On T Seat

How do I describe it? It was just gross. Nobody want to sit on this seat. It was only when I looked to see what was on the seat did I understand.

There was a clear liquid on it...it had things floating in it. It swayed back and forth with the motions of the train.

My first thought was that it was vomit.

I stopped looking at it because I thought was going to add to it.

Sorry about that, folks. Sometimes you have to report the ugly side too.

Maybe it was some kind of brew.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:22
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny again. A bit less humid.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2 (not annoyed - just grossed out.)
Feared for my life: Nope. Just feared tossing my cookies. Yes, I ate cookies for breakfast.

Watch The Doors Please

The conductor on today's Orange Line repeated himself a lot. He kept telling everybody to "Watch The Doors, Please!"

I watched those doors every single time we stopped. All they did was open and close. I didn't see them do anything special.

He also let people know that they should not block the doors and move into the center of the train. Again, he repeated himself a lot.

People started to laugh out loud at this guy's "routine". It shaved a minute off of my normal commute time.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:09
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:27
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Really sunny. Should have brought the shades.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Delay and the Moscow Transit System

Not sure what the deal was, but it wasn't looking good there for a moment at Community College. The Orange Line stopped and stayed there for a while. The air brakes were making weird noises and the train didn't want to get going.

We started to roll after a four minute wait...I estimated that from today's T Arrival time.

As we descended into the underground, some guy started talking about the Moscow transit system and how people there do not wear deodorant and are packed into the trains tightly.

Made me feel lucky.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:08
Bus Arrival Time: 7:22
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:50
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. Warm
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nope

At Least No Derailments

I read there was a derailment on the commuter rail today (Fairmount Line). I didn't have that kind of trouble, but I did have a large delay on the Orange Line. It added 9 minutes to my trip and probably was the reason there was a lot of pushing and shoving this morning.

Word to the wise: If you have two bags of luggage, don't set them right in front of the Orange Line doors unless you are going to move them at every stop.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:08
Bus Arrival Time: 7:22
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:54
Weather as I call it: Sunny. Yay.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life:

Into Each Commute A Little Rain Must Fall

How about a whole lotta rain? These downpours are pretty intense. I wasn't outside for a long time, but enough to see some flash flooding. People had to step away from the curb to avoid the huge splashes from the cars roaring by.

I am glad I wasn't driving in this stuff. The rain made people drive worse than they do when it snows.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:08
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Rainy! Muggy!
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Better Today More Awake

Sorry about yesterday's post. I was still asleep and not really back in the swing of things.

Today I kept my eyes open and tried to capture the trip for the blog.

1. There was a beer bottle broken at the bus stop. It was a bottle of Busch Light. Mmmmmm Busch Light.

2. A woman who I have never seen before came to the stop today. She said "Good Morning" to me when she arrived. That's not something that happens every day. I replied with the same greeting.

3. The woman picked up the broken bottle pieces and somehow wedged them into the full trash barrel at the stop. The barrel was full of garbage including a rusty muffler.

4. The bus got to Malden Station just in time for me to run up the stairs and catch the Orange Line. My cold, black heart was a-pumping after sprinting up the stairwell. (just kidding about the heart condition...but I think I need to get back to running.)

5. Standing on the Orange Line was good for me today. I got to hear people explain where the Comcast Center is...you know...the Tweeter Center...Great Woods? Yeah, same place.

Let's do it all again tomorrow.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:25
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, 65F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Jumpstart

I can't say I missed my morning commute. I was just not into it this morning.

I hear the bus has been coming later and later.

I need a jump start.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:10
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny 68F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

No Problems At All

If I could talk about the ride home in this blog, I would. Since I am contractually obligated to write only about the morning commute, I will.

This morning was great. Sun shining. All modes of transportion were prompt.

Can you tell I am off tomorrow?

Boo to Wade Boggs wearing a Yankee hat and boo to buses not appearing in the evening commute. There, I said it.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:08
Bus Arrival Time: 7:24
T Departure Time: 7:24
T Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Sunny and pleasant
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nah

Vaca Mind

Things have been quiet on the MBTA for me. I heard at Malden Station that the Red Line was having problems, but we have been cool over the past few days.

I think my brain is in vacation mode...everything seems great!

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny and not as humid.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Fine Morning

I only have a three day work week this week. I am focusing on getting through Wednesday. That's all I have to do.

My family and I had a good weekend. Yesterday's weather was really great. I think the sunshine was good for my mood.

It wasn't that tough getting up this morning. The bus was a little late. Some people paid with change but it didn't hold up the bus all that much.

The Orange Line flowed well. The conductor was yelling at people to stay behind the yellow line because the doors were closing.

Fine morning.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:08
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Partly cloudy, it's supposed to rain today
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Seven Eleven

Not just a convenience store, but a date too.

Pretty easy day on the ol' MBTA. No delays. I actually caught an earlier Orange Line train.

Hope everyone had a good week. Type to you on Monday.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:06
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Hazy sunny, but dry.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nah

Can You Talk Over My iPod?

No birds today. Pretty quiet at the bus stop. Just stood around and got on when the bus pulled up.

The Orange Line was pretty normal...well...as normal as the Orange Line can be.

I sometimes like the exchanges people have with each other... This one woman shouted to another as she took a seat, "Well you should expect that if you sit in front of an open seat!"

I guess she shoved the other woman..not sure though.

The best part was they both had iPod buds in their ears. I wonder if they even heard each other.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:06
Bus Arrival Time: 7:21
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny and cooler as predicted
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Birds of Prey

As I walked out of my house today, I heard a clunking sound on the rooftop. I looked up to see if I could find what was making the noise but I didn't see it from that angle. Walking away from the door and looking back allow me to see this large bird on my overhang. It was a red-tailed hawk.

I have seen this bird in my neighborhood but not this close. We stared at each other for a few seconds until the hawk decided to fly away with a screech.

I looked up the symbolism of having an encounter with a hawk. I got this answer:

Hawk teaches us to be observant and to pay attention to what we may overlook.

I will continue to observe.

The bus lost some seats due to some water spill. I hate when that happens.

Orange Line was still packed when I got to Back Bay. Generally it clears out after Downtown Crossing...I had to climb over some people to get out.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Partly sunny. One more day of haze before it supposedly breaks tomorrow.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Held On Tight Today

My fellow rider who had the coffee spill yesterday got on the bus with another creamy-looking iced coffee. My heart sank a little. I thought we would have another sad end to his refreshing beverage. Thankfully he held on tight today and we did not have a messy, wet mishap.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:24
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Hazy again. Very humid
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Iced Coffee Spill

Welcome back everybody.

Today I witnessed an iced coffee spill of biblical proportions. This gentleman got on the bus with a wonderfully delicious-looking iced coffee from the Dunk. He had it prepared with a lot of cream (or maybe half and half) because it had a very light caramel color. Mmmmm creamy.

He departed the bus at Malden Center and sat down on the Orange Line along with me and about 25 other people.

Somewhere between Malden and Wellington, all hell broke loose and his cup fell to the ground. All the creamy coffee goodness rolled down the floor.

People offered him napkins to wipe himself up, but the majority of the coffee just rolled back and forth with the inclines and the declines of the tracks....It made for a wet ride.

Not much else you can do outside of passing along the warning to others about holding on to your iced coffee while on the T. Those things can get slippery.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:23
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Hazy/Foggy. What's up with this summer?
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah.

Summer's Here And The Time Is Right

...for a long weekend. With gas prices high, the housing market in shambles, the war in Iraq still waging (as the Metro reminded me this morning), it's time to hang out with family and relax-ish.

Hope you don't have to work tomorrow.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Hazy humid...not that hot though
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

To My Advantage

I kinda like the new schedule. I get to sleep in a little later...I get to move around the house a little slower. I think I will use the time shift to my advantage this summer.

The bus moved fairly swiftly this morning. I made the Orange Line that is usually in the station at 7:20...and pulls away before I can get on.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:06
Bus Arrival Time: 7:19
T Departure Time: 7:20
T Arrival Time: 7:41
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun. A little less humid.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

July Started Already?

Ok, I don't think I can keep the surprise at the passage of time theme going for two days in a row.

Maybe I can.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:24
T Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Muggy!
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Where Did June Go?

June has gone by so fast, at least from my perspective. Has it for you? As a kid, I always looked forward to the Fourth of July...and it always seemed to take a long time to arrive. Now I blink, and the 4th is here, and summer almost over.

Ok, it's not almost over...but June flew by.

Quiet Monday on the T today. The regular crew minus one was at the bus stop so that's refreshing.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:06
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:24
T Arrival Time: 7:45
Weather as I call it: Cloudy, muggy
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

Weird and Awful

The bus has a lot of people on it lately that do not take the bus regularly. There is a lot of cash payments lately. Not sure why that is. Are shut-ins more active in the summer time or what? Where are they the rest of the year?

I read in the Metro that there was an Orange Line accident yesterday. The story was cryptic in the explanation of what happened. She wasn't pushed but it wasn't intentional. No video camera to capture the events. Weird. Weird and awful.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:06
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Sunny High 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No

Adjusting To The Summer Schedule

More people at the bus stop today. That was nice. I didn't feel all alone.

The bus came a little bit earlier and it seemed to make a difference. We actually stopped at all the places we were scheduled to stop. I am not sure what one minute made, or if less people were waiting this time around. In any case, the bus fulfilled its duty this morning.

Orange Line was quiet today. Lots of people longing for the weekend. Hopefully the weather is nice.

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

Bus Departure Time: 7:06
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:22
T Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

You're Not In On The Joke

Strange times on the old bus line these days. This is the second time this week I have been the only person at my stop. After ten minutes of being alone, I get this sinking feeling that everyone else has taken the day off or it's Saturday and I just don't know it or there's a hidden camera on me and the jokes on me.

Now that school is out, they have revised the schedule. Now (I think) the bus comes just twice between 6:30 and 7:10...which is throwing everything off...I guess. Not sure why no one else is joining me for the wait at the bus stop, but the bus certainly fills up quickly...to the point that we stop picking up people halfway through the route.

The sad image of crowds of people giving the driver a faint wave as the bus rolls by is still in my head.

I think I might write to the T...and see what they have to say.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:07
Bus Arrival Time: 7:20
T Departure Time: 7:25
T Arrival Time: 7:46
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun. 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Two Times In Two Weeks

I drove into work again! That's two times in two weeks time. Another way of putting it: I am averaging a drive into work once a week. Not bad for a blog called driving to work.

Anyway, let's talk about that Tobin Bridge. I mean, are they ever not working on it?

The paint looks great...it really does. Love booger green...

And how about that Longfellow bridge...is that thing going to collapse or what?

Don't stand on it...you and your fatso friends can't stand on it for the Fourth of July...it's rusted and brittle....but you can drive over it all you want.

Thanks. I'll be here all week.

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

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: Sunny and muggy.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nah

No Passing Through

Hi there,

I am guessing the bus schedule has changed since I waited at the stop for an extended period of time. I think we look forward to not having the high school kids on the bus, but then they take away a whole bus run and make things even worse.

The title of the post is the same as the message that is written above the front and back door of every Orange Line car. It seems someone(s) is having fun scratching off the "P" and the "Th" of this message and making the statement something entirely different. Not sure what it means, but it's different.


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

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:17
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Cloudy 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: No

Such A Friday

It's been a long week. Feels so much like a Friday.

I drove into work today...making the name of my blog appropriate again.

I have a meeting I have to go to in the afternoon. Driving seems to be the best option.

Have a good weekend everybody.

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

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: Sunny and 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): N/A
Feared for my life: N/A

We Love A Parade

Bus was late today...not sure if they have changed the schedule because the kids are out of school or what. Gee, that would stink.

Some Celtics shirts today. Maybe more people are taking the day off and will be on the T later to see the parade.

There were people on the T who had a huge suitcase. It actually sparked a conversation between strangers. It was a miracle.



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

Bus Departure Time: 7:02
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Sunny 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Believe In Boston

I am just so happy that the Celtics won the championship last night. I saw some green on the T. I think most people I ride with were too tired to really show their happiness. It was a quiet time for everyone to reflect. It's been a long time.

It doesn't appear that any celebratory damage delayed my commute.

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

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:14
T Departure Time: 7:17
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Sunny 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Just One Delay

The only tough time I had with the commute this morning was one dude who decided it was time to put money on his Charlie Card. Seriously, we spent 5 minutes waiting for this guy to pay for his bus fare. Wha' happened?

I heard that the last day of school for the kids is tomorrow. Sweet.

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

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Mostly cloudy 60s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Tired Eyes Cloudy Skies

I watched the entire Celtics game...I am little sleepy this morning. The bus and Orange Line were on time. Some guy was sitting in my regular seat on the Orange Line. I wonder if he will be there tomorrow. Could become a problem. Just kidding.



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

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:12
T Departure Time: 7:15
T Arrival Time: 7:36
Weather as I call it: Cloudy - cool
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

Random Observations

It's a potpourri type of post today.

Hot weather reveals things...like the tattoo on the middle aged woman who rides the bus with you. The short sleeved shirt that she was wearing yesterday allowed the tattoo of a castle on her left shoulder to be visible. Pretty cool.

I sometimes sit on the Orange Line in the seats between two poles...they are positioned as follows from left to right: pole, seat, seat, pole. If you sit in either seat and someone else sits next to you who likes to have a lot of space or just needs a lot of space, that pole next to you will leave a mark on your leg before you arrive at your destination. Believe it.

Apparently ice coffee takes longer to make than regular coffee. The lines in both establishments near my building were way too long. I got my coffee though, at establishment three...not so near my work.




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

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

Heat Bring Hot Tempers

The Orange Line had a disabled train this morning which made for a long wait on the platform and a full train all the way into Boston.

The conductor was yelling at the passengers trying to squeeze into the train. The feedback from her intercom became more and more ear piercing with every announcement.

I guess people didn't believe her when she said there was a train directly behind us.

Some passengers yelled back at her. Some passengers made jokes.

I think tomorrow when this heat breaks, everyone will be less cranky.

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

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:14
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:42
Weather as I call it: Sunny, 70s again today.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 5
Feared for my life: No

Ha Ha Ha Hot

Not that it matters much since my office is climate controlled, but the 5 minutes that I was out and about this morning on my way to work fortold the steaminess that would be upon us by 10AM.

I hope people who work outside take it easy today.



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

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:09
T Departure Time: 7:12
T Arrival Time: 7:32
Weather as I call it: Hazy sun, high 70s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1 Not bad at all
Feared for my life: Nope

Flossing On The T

Seriously.

I saw one of those floss picks on the floor of the Orange Line this morning.

Really?

Who is flossing their teeth on the T? Yuck.

I mean, good oral hygenie is a virtue...but keeping up with it on the T?

No. Just don't.


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

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: Foggy 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: Nope

What Are We Fighting For?

I am back to work after a day of doctor's appointments. Nothing bad to note. Thanks for your concern.

I'm happy to report that there were no kids on the bus...the ride was quiet except for the sports talk.

Orange Line ride was fine too, but once I got off the T, that's when the real fireworks started. I walked by a construction site on my way to my building where two workers were arguing loudly at each other. They were flat out yelling and cursing. Cops were staring. Other construction workers were gawking. Guys in suits on the sidewalks hustling with umbrellas to get to their jobs were giggling.

I was puzzled. C'mon guys, let's stop fighting and finish this building.

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

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:09
T Departure Time: 7:12
T Arrival Time: 7:32
Weather as I call it: Light rain.
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: Nope

I Didn't Know The Exact Moment

The automated announcer guy wasn't working at Malden Station this morning, so I did not know the exact moment when the next train to Forest Hills was approaching or arriving. It's hard to understand how I got on the train without any warning.

Just joking, but the announcer guy wasn't doing his job today.


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

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:13
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Sunny - 60F
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

The Meaning Of It All

I write down details of my trip into work every day I go to work. I type about interesting stuff, funny stuff, weird stuff, annoying stuff...stuff. Stuff.

Why does it matter? Does it matter? I am collecting experience and putting it into some kind of recorded form. I guess I am capturing time.

Time is depleting for me (hopefully not rapidly!) It's depleting for everybody.

Capturing the time I am here. Putting it somewhere. Keeping it.

Letting myself and others know, "I was here."

It had meaning.


Commute was ok today. No complaints. The T conductor thanked us over and over for riding the T.


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

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:12
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:37
Weather as I call it: Sunny 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 1
Feared for my life: No...I was busy living life.

Puts It Into Perspective

I had a hard time writing something today. I am sad over the accident on the Green Line yesterday evening. I joke about fearing for my life everyday on the T. Mostly joking, but it's not so funny when it's real.

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

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:18
T Departure Time: 7:21
T Arrival Time: 7:43
Weather as I call it: Sunny and warmer high 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 4
Feared for my life: ...

No Fires This Morning

I was hoping to see some aftermath of the fire in Downtown Crossing. No such luck. I was if it never happened. Maybe it didn't?

I seem to be getting to Back Bay station later and later. I checked my watch as we were pulling into the station and it was 7:39.

The T doesn't seem to be delayed. Strange.

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

Bus Departure Time: 6:57
Bus Arrival Time: 7:13
T Departure Time: 7:16
T Arrival Time: 7:39
Weather as I call it: Sunny 50s
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 2
Feared for my life: No

Water On The Seats

Back to work! Great weekend though. The revitalizing powers of the sun are amazing.

Bus was fine. I got on the Orange Line and there were three seats with what appeared to be water on them. Appeared to be...is the key.

You see this thing on the bus all the time. Windows are not closed. Rain pours in and gets on the seats. On the Orange Line, it comes down to someone spilling something. What the liquid is and what container it spilled out of is always a guessing game.

I didn't play today. I stood.

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

Bus Departure Time: 6:58
Bus Arrival Time: 7:15
T Departure Time: 7:18
T Arrival Time: 7:39
Weather as I call it: Cloudy and 50s. A bit humid?
Level of commute annoyance (scale of 1 to 10): 3
Feared for my life: Nah