I feel your pain. I did this off and on for a few years. Two hours door to door. It sucks.

To mix things up you can drive to Braintree or Quincy and take the red line in from there.

Learn to sleep on the train in those uncomfortable seats. The single seats at the ends of each car are the best. Board in Providence for the best selection! You can get free parking a few blocks away if needed.

In off seasons I used to occasionally stay overnight in Boston. Winter is best. Four star hotels for $80 on Priceline. Saved $20+ on train fares though. It added up, but helped to save my sanity.

Acela: morning schedule sucks!! Wtf.