Susie,

The seat is on its way! I hope that helps with your commute.
And, I might add that I haven't done a full commute since I moved a year and a half ago. Last spring I did do a few half commutes, where I drove half way, parked at a train station, and rode about 9 miles to work. On the way back, i made it longer, so I could get a 20 mile ride in. I used to have a 6.7 mile uphill commute on the way to school, going past a wild life reservation, pond, etc. Now I live 13.5 miles away, with a large traffic circle and highway making the commute a little weird by bike. It would be about 15 miles because my bike can't go on the highway. There is one intersection that worries me, but early in the AM it should be fine.
So, I have my old Voodoo mtb all set up for commuting. Pannier, lights, dual sided spd pedals. I am definitely going to try this before I retire in June. Still, I am nervous. I think it will take me over an hour, since the bike is so much heavier than my road bike.

Good luck,

Robyn