Near Chicago ?? I live there.
My work is the real headache right now ... as I work in Central Illinois (it's about 90 mins from my home - one-way)
I used to live here in Central IL ... only 20 mins from my employment ... but then I had to 'deal with' that long drive up to the Western burbs every time I wanted to go visit my family. So, I began to 'slack off' on seeing them as often. My parents became a 'every other day' phone call.
I just couldn't be that far away anymore ... so, I decided to move back close to them. Although, I am in Chicago because it's easy to access the expressway quicker. So I'm on my way to work in no time.
Yes I know, call me crazy ... as now I suffer that long drive back-n-forth to work.
If it wasn't for the good pay/benefits, and my seniority here ... I would have moved on to another company long ago. But, I guess that's just some of the sacrifices one as to make. I thought it was a good decision at the time. Now, I am so exhausted when I get home ... that drive is ridiculous. Although, I'll admit it's faster to get home (as traffic is definitely on my side) but still ... getting here 'on-time' is the real challenge.