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Getting there

From home to work and beyond

By LORRIE LYKINS
Published March 9, 2005

KARSLEE STILES

THE STARTING LINE: Hop on to Interstate 275 north in Ellenton.

THE FINISH LINE: Park Boulevard in Seminole.

THE RIDE: A teal 1999 Chrysler Sebring LXI with 88,000 miles on it.

APPROXIMATE GAS MILEAGE: 19-20 miles per gallon.

THE ROUTE: I-275 north over the Sunshine Skyway bridge to the Park Boulevard exit, west on Park into Seminole.

Do you ever vary your route?

I've tried about three different routes, but my usual route seems to be the best.

How far do you commute?

Forty-six miles each way.

How long does it take?

Between 45 to 55 minutes.

What time do you normally get home after work?

Anywhere between 7 and 10 p.m.

Do you ever carpool?

Although my husband commutes as well, we have different schedules, so no.

How long have you been commuting?

About seven months.

Why the commute?

We own a 4-year-old thoroughbred horse named Nevaeh (heaven spelled backward) Sky, and we wanted her to be able to be a horse and have a nice place to graze and wander around. We couldn't afford the house we have now in Ellenton in Pinellas County, so we decided the commute was worth it.

How do you occupy your drive time?

I open my sun roof and enjoy the beautiful water views and listen to a good CD.

What do you like about the commute?

It's my peace time.

What do you dislike?

Always needing gas.

Any daily rituals related to your commute?

Well, I love to listen to Van Morrison. That's my all-time favorite.

What do other drivers do that drives you crazy?

Slow drivers in the fast lane drive me nuts.

Most memorable thing you've seen while commuting?

I love going over the Skyway in the evening. The sunsets are spectacular and I also love the sight of cruise ships out on the water all lit up at night.

[Last modified March 9, 2005, 00:54:20]