“Don’t undertake a project unless it is manifestly important and nearly impossible.” - Edwin Land, maker of the Polaroid Camera

     I have a theory. Everyone's life is boring to them, because, well, they lived it. Even working in some "glamorous" or high-paying profession can get dull when you have to do it day in and day out. But learning what someone else does is really pretty fascinating. Witness the "reality" shows that are all the rage these days.

     I worked in the airlines for over a decade. While there are certainly high spots, and the people were generally wonderful, I would never have imagined that a popular show could be crafted from watching folks at Southwest throw bags. But - there it is.

     The 800 Mile Commute started as a way to keep me sane during an absolutely ridiculous move we made from Raleigh to Chicago. But as more people wrote to tell me they enjoyed my writing style (I'd love to claim lineage to either Dave Barry or Mike Royko, but alas, I can only claim inspiration) I decided to test my theory.

     My life has been unexceptional. I'm not a millionaire (yet). There's no reason anyone would know my name more than anyone else's. But, just through my life, I have seen, exdperienced, and affected some things that truly ARE fascinating and make for good stories. I would like to share those stories, and invite you to join along with me.

    The point is that we ALL lead exceptional lives. We rely on the person who drives the train to get us in to work every morning. We all want to know how a scientist figured out the right amount of explosive to put in our air bags so that they stop us from crashing through the windshield at 70 mph without blowing our head off our shoulders. These things are interesting, and our stories should be told and enjoyed.

“Who am I? Do you recognize me?                                                                    Of course you don't. I'm nobody.” - B-Side of Life by Timbuk 3