Correct. In reality, my new workplace is much more supportive of bike commuting than my old one. They have lockers, secure storage, showers, you name it.

The problem is that I'm basically a practical guy so my fitness is always related to something practical such as getting from point A to point B. It's pretty much a given that I'll stretch out my new commute a lot of the time. But when it's dark and wet in the winter, we'll see if I can resist the temptation to take the easy way. I'll stay reasonably fit, but I suspect my days of thinking of riding 65+ miles one way for a bike commute makes any sense are over. I'm OK with that.

BTW, I arrived at work before my boss today. I didn't get my tailwinds (they wound up being very soft sidewinds) and a few miles of my route was freshly graveled, but other than that, conditions were perfect. Of course I forgot to bring something to wear on my feet other than cycling shoes...

Actually, I'm mostly agnostic on the commuting thing. However, there is no substitute for physical strength and mental acuity -- these things make practically all aspects of life easier and more fun. It simply turns out that cycling helps you develop these things and is an incredibly efficient way to get around compared to alternatives to boot. Plus I enjoy it. I don't ever dread riding or find it boring. Beats me how the guys that do stay motivated.