Commuting Lessons

I started my new job Tuesday, and decided since I would not have to drive out to other offices yet I would take advantage and ride my bike. Here is what I have learned about commuting over the past 3 days.

1. It is best to pack your messenger bag the night before, so you don't forget something. And as a gal some things are more important to remember than others....I almost walked out the door without packing a bra! Oh the horror of wearing a stinky sports bra all day.
2. If you leave your clothes in the messenger bag they stay moist all day long, yuck.
3. You can leave your shoes at work instead of bringing them home with you. I had 3 pairs of shoes at work today. :-)
4. When the weather is 34 degrees in the morning and 70 degrees in the afternoon you end up having to put more clothing in your messenger bag in the evening than in the morning...hence the shoes stay at work.
5. It is best to put nectarines, plums or other possibly soft fruit in a sandwich bag in case they get squished. I did and they did, but no mess thanks to the sandwich bags.
6. Wearing a dress at work is fine, but when you need to go get lunch you cannot jump on your bike and ride to the nearest store.
7. Wearing cycling shoes in a food establishment always gives way to conversation.
8. Some bags are not big enough to carry your lunch you made the night before....plan ahead.
9. When there are 2 left turn lanes and one gives the option of turning or going straight it is best that you go straight and then wait to cross again to go up the street otherwise you could get caught in between cars. I am sure I was cussed out by a couple of drivers, and it certainly scared the bejeebers out of me.
10. Don't forget to turn off your rear light when you get to work....oh, and batteries last longer than 12 hours on those rear lights.
11. Even if it is only supposed to be a light recovery ride day when you see the head bobbing ahead you have to work the pedals harder, then smile and carry on a conversation as you pass. Of course your legs hate you later for not recovering like you were supposed to.
12. Intervals with a messenger bag on make you tough.
13. If you end up having your husband come and get you because you need the car for an appointment, don't forget your helmet otherwise you cannot ride when you get home. :-(

So there are a few things I have noticed over the few days of commuting. Anyone else have some suggestions or words of wisdom they care to share?