I make my commute is about 10 miles (40 mins) in and I usually take a 15 mile route back (50 mins-1 hr). If I am in a rush either way, the true distance is about 7 or 8 miles. It is in the Philadelphia suburbs (Delco and Montco); "rolling terrain" would describe it best. I use my mountain bike with slick tires, a front and rear light set since I leave at 6 am in the dark (I like the versatility my mountain bike gives me compared to my road bike on commutes). Anyone else feel like predawn rides are extremely peaceful and inspiring in a way that full daylight rides just does not provide?
I teach at a high school, so I shower and change in the coaches room which is a VERY nice set up. The morning exercise is a great way to start off the day..I feel energized and I really don't consider myself a "morning person" otherwise. With a wife and child it is a great way get a workout in without disrupting "family time".
(The only drawback is that I have to care my laptop in my backpack which gets heavy as the commute goes on. Also, the weather will be getting cold soon so that will challenge my dedication, I guess.)
Lets all continue to be safe.