It's becoming my new normal! I scratch my head and think -- hmmm -- I didn't spend anything yesterday. The weekends are a different story, of course.

I had a nice conversation this morning with a man who is making the same crazy daily commute that I am. He is actively looking for ways to end it -- moving, finding new work, retiring early. He was quite surprised that I was doing it deliberately but understood when I explained it was part of a long-range plan. Even though it takes off a big chunk of my day, there are good things about my commute. I get enforced exercise walking to and from the stations -- I've never stuck to an exercise program like this! I have quiet time to myself before and after work. I am getting a lot of reading done. I get to see a spectacular view of the city every day. I see all kinds of people. I have an excellent excuse to leave work at a certain time each day, no matter what's going on. I can use my train pass for recreational travel in the area. I find so much spare change!

He was also very set on leaving the cold weather. I complain about the weather, but it is not a deciding factor in my life. If I have to brave some snow and ice to be close to my family, so be it. I actually like the seasons, and wouldn't like to be in a tropical area where it's always the same. (I know some will say it's not always the same, but it's a very subtle variance -- I like beautiful flower-filled springs, hot and lazy summers, spectacular, colorful autumns, and crisp, snowy winters. So I am where I need to be!

Well, I hope he finds what he is looking for, but our conversation just made me realize that I am happy with my choices.