Oh lawd, I've been out of the loop for at least eight months (distracted by second kid, foiled by Canadian winter, excuses etc). I DO have a routine though when I'm trying to get back into the commute; I chug about 2 liters water per day and avoid dairy for at least two weeks and then my first week I ride at a pace like any of the old dudes that have milk crates strapped to their bikes[1].

If I push it all out my first ride of the year I find I'm totally demoralized for at least another two weeks afterwards.

[1] These guys invariably ride YEAR ROUND and are hard as steel, so I can't knock them, I usually just like to ride faster than walking speed.