Marblehead to Reading commute (Peabody, Salem: restaurants, shops, friendly)

[StarlaJane]

Does anyone know what the commute is like from Marblehead to Reading at 6:30 in the morning? Also, what is the commute like in the winter (I've heard that the coastal areas can get quite icy!)
Also, what is Marblehead like? Shopping? Restaurants? Pet-friendly?

[MAtoNC!]

I did a Swampscott to Woburn commute before. It wasn't great but not horrid either. It would probably be the end of the line for me. I did a contract job commuting from Swampscott to Bedford. That was horrid dealing with the 128/93 interchange!

Marblehead will put you a little father out since it's more tucked away. You really need to be on Rt 128 by 7am. Othwerwise it is backed up. Many times I had to get off and take Rt 129, then get back on Rt 128.

Marblehead is lovely with a nice downtown. There are plenty of restaurants. Nearby shopping can be found at Targt in Salem. Vinnin Square in Swampscott and the malls in Peabody and Danvers.

[StarlaJane]

Thanks! About how long a commute? Why is the commute less-than-desirable? Just to give you an idea, my last job was a 45-minute commute that did not involve too much traffic, no I-95--just distance and lights. I certainly didn't enjoy it, although it did give me a chance to drink my morning coffee, think about the oncoming day and listen to the news on NPR (which is something I never get to do if I have a short or non-existent commute.) However, I would rather have a 30-minute commute, if possible, and I would rather stay off the highway--I know how THAT is--and definitely do not want to deal with backed-up/stop-and-go traffic.
Marblehead sounds lovely. I'm looking for small-town charm (like local restaurants/shops) but with some access to larger shopping areas. It might be worth it, as long as the commute is ok. Thanks.