So, I got out of commuting for several reasons, but now that I'm settled in my new job, and my boss and manager are supportive of my goals, I've been biking again. I did the whole trip 3 times last year, but I'm a wee bit fatter than I was when I switched from a triple to a double a few years back, and I found the hill at the end (over 11% grade for a bit) was killing my knee. I have since switched to a compact double, and have been parking and pedaling. My distances are below-

Normal route, 19.8 miles each way
Shorter route with a little "big road" riding (two lanes going each way, semi divided, but still has stop lights, etc, so not technically a highway) 16 miles each way.
Park and ride option 2- 11.9 miles each way
Park and ride option 1- 6 miles each way.

So last year I started at the 19.8 each way, and it was killing me, combine that with the apprehension about the hill with the wrong gearing, and I basically created a cop out. Now that I'm back to it, I'm really enjoying it. I've only had 3 trips so far this year, but that's been in a little over 2 weeks, so I'm def on the right track. I'd like to build up to doing the whole ride for a week by the end of summer. I think it's doable, feel great today did the 11.9 in, and since my daughter needs the car from where I parked it, I'll be getting the 19ish on the way home, depending on what route I randomly pick.

Loving being back to it! Just wanted to share!

Joe