Well, I didn't think I would say that 4:45 was night running, but here in Sheboygan in early December it is. I had about an hour and a half between clients so I took a little run. It was brisk and dark; the moon had risen and was shimmering on the lake. It was really beautiful and I was so happy to have the moment to myself - or 45 minutes worth of moments. Just the sound of my shoes hitting the pavement, my breath lightly chuffing, and the swish of my windbreaker and windpants.
As I ran down Broughton Drive, there were 3 cars parked alongside the side of the road with their engines idling. There was no good reason for them to be there. There was someone in each driver's seat, but no other people. They did not appear to be gazing out at the moonlight. I really hate it when I'm in situations where there aren't many people around and there is something suspicious. The good thing about this area is that there is very little that gets my guard up. If the people sitting in these cars realized that their behavior is unsettling to female runners, would they continue doing it? Rather than continue running along the lakefront, I went up the hill into a residential neighborhood and continued my loop. It really was a lovely run and I'm glad I did it.
One thing I realized is that while running during the day there are more visual breaks, but, at night, the focus is more inner and on the moment. Perhaps a little bit of adrenaline from the night, some vestigial instinct to be aware of imminent danger keeps me more focused and slightly on edge.
I like and need these solitary runs from time to time. So much of my day is spent somewhat alone, but working one-on-one with someone. It is good to have the space clearing that a run provides. Just me, my breath, the road, my thoughts (or sometimes no thoughts). I'm not sure if people understand my need to be alone at times. If I don't have it, I get bitchy. A bit like food.
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