Someone put together a lovely video about figuring out a way to commute from Marblehead to Boston by bicycle. I think it proves that even people who live in the suburbs can utilize a "greener" mode of travel, as long as they are willing to seek out lesser known routes into the city.

Is this a sound idea in winter?

Also with your children and dogs it is easy and safe nowadays. I cycle a lot in Somerville and Boston with my two daughters. (we are Dutch and just love to be outside and be healty and we love bikes in Holland as many know)

I arrived a few months ago with my family and wanted to get around easily and safely with my kids to the playgrounds, my daycare, and to do some shopping and I did not want to always have to take my car.  I just love to be outside and like to exercise. They just started selling this Dutch trendy bike which helps me to get around, so maybe you would love it as well and this will be of convenience to  you as well.  www.myamsterdambike.com

I attended a Cambridge free urban cycling workshop last month and they will organize it more often the coming months to stimulate cycling and improve a healthy/green environment in Cambridge. Info is on the website of The City of Cambridge. I know you also get a free helmet when visiting the workshop.