My first commute today. (I'd pat my own back but don't want to tear a rotator cuff or anything.) Spent the fall, winter and early spring on a stationary bike and couldn't wait to get out. Fortunately, I spent some time on BF and heeded the suggestions to be safe and be prepared. Knowledge gained helped me plot my course and behave safely/ feel safe and buy some safety stuff. Not certain I would have gone through with it if I did not find this site.
Helmet, always. Blinkie on back even in daylight. Ride straight and take lane when necessary AFTER checking that it's clear. Waited my turn at red lights, cautious at green lights. Signaled. Thank you to all who have posted tales of joy/caution/misery/woe. I've learned a lot. Still need a helmet mirror.

Nice 40F morning, 10.6 mi of mostly 2-lane roads. No problem drivers.

BTW, made it 10 mi no problem. Showered and dressed at company fitness center (lucky me) and got a flat crossing the parking lot to my building. Freaky little 1/2" piece of steel wire, like a strand from a cable or bristle from a wire brush. Fixed flat in comfort of my office w/ patch kit, tools, pump suggested on BF. Thx.
Now I just have to make it home. 60F. 30% Humidity. Can't wait.