I’m trying out the new Connector service that is available by the firm. My trip so far:

8:40 am: leave my house to go to MM to get a latte. I figure 20 minutes is plenty of time to get a latte, even if the line is a bit long.

8:50: it’s my turn at the front of the line and I decide, no, not enough time to get a latte, so I order a short drip with room instead. The lady at the espresso maker is going at 33 RPM in a 45 RPM world. As much as I hate Starbucks, I know they can get through a line of 9 people in what seems like 9 minutes. Not the case here.

9:00 am: Board the Connector, find a good seat. Take a tour of Wedgewood as we pick up more and more worker bees. Predominantly male. I think I’m one of 2 women taking the Connector on this route. Unsure if this is reflecting the departure time (9am, with a 10 am arrival to your building), or if it reflects the alternative commute options. Hm.

9:24 am: We’ve just got on the ramp at Montlake. Traffic is not as bad as at 7:30, as well it shouldn’t be.

9:37 am: Just got off at the 148th Ave exit. We’re pretty much on schedule.

9:56 am: Sitting at my desk, finishing this post. The shuttle to my building left “West Campus” at 9:45 (Two minutes after the scheduled arrival time of the Connector. Not bad). While on the Connector I had enough time to review some email and proofread a document. The ride was quiet, comfortable, and didn’t smell like some of those Metro busses do.

All in all, a positive experience. Hooray! As much as I’m enjoying this (wi-fi! Lookit me, I’m online, trying to be productive!), nothing beats the Vanpool. Are you hearing me, Eva? Nothing beats a quick pick up route and drop off right in front of my building.