Are there other routes that you could take? I am happy to go a few miles out of my way if the ride is signifacantly nicer. Find roads with lots of stop signs, car drivers hate them, and the traffic is slower with them. If you live out in the country that might be hard to do though...

I am also very impressed by anyone cycling those distances. I'm not tough enough. Thats why I'd never live too far from my work place. Driving on a regular basis is not an option.

Again, hip! hip! to you.