A Walk to Remember

Perhaps my favorite part of my new job is its proximity to my home. I am just over a mile from Harvard's Alumni office, which makes for a lovely walk to and from work. That is, when the weather permits. At some point I will probably have to address the fact that the weather in this city makes what I've heard of Seattle sound sunny. For now, I will remain in denial and avoid commenting on that for as long as possible.

I have now experienced all three types of commuting: driving, public transportation and walking. Walking is clearly the most pleasant, as you don't need to worry about delays or traffic. Theoretically, you get to enjoy a little sunshine and fresh air if you don't live in a temperate weather zone. Knowing that I get to work my legs before and after sitting at a desk all day makes me happier in general. I am further motivated to walk because I do not have a monthly T pass yet, which makes a one stop T ride feel exorbitantly expensive.

Of course, each means of commuting has its perks. I did enjoy listening to the radio when I had to drive 35 minutes each way to Emmaus when I lived in Reading, PA. I also may have had some of my best car concerts ever as I sang along with the radio or my iPod. (If there had been a hidden mic or camera, I'd definitely be on VH1 storytellers for some of those performances.) My subway commute in NY provided some of my favorite Metropolitan Diary type moments. You really never know who you'll run into on the Subway. Of course, with the good you have to take the bad, and man there are some weirdos on the subway.

Walking trumps all, of course. I may change my tune when summer temperatures hit 80 degrees and I've sweat through my work clothes before arrival. Though, aforementioned weather tendencies may prevent high temperatures from ever being a factor. This morning, I sipped coffee and listened to half of Coldplay's Rush of Blood to the Head album. All in all, I come to work in a good mood, which sets the tone for steady and cheerful productivity.