CA - I don't know what time you get up to go to work, but try riding in the AM before work. It's quiet, no traffic, and quite peaceful really. That's what I do in the summer to avoid the blistering heat in the afternoons. I'm just now starting to train for a century, so I can't really tell you how it works for that. Congrats on the good career move, though.

Tulip - some people where I work commute on their bikes. It's good to see! They live in the town right next to the research station. Those of us with kids live 26 miles away - better schools. We try to carpool as much as possible. We all work different hours (flex schedules), so it's a little tough to get more than 2 people to carpool together. It's better than nothing, though. I'm just so happy to only have to go in 4 days a week. What a great way to start the weekend!