This early onset of spring is so wonderful and I’ve been trying to soak up this warmth that makes me so happy by going on a lot of walks! The birds are all singing loudly because they’re so happy too. I’m excited to start running again soon, but I’m taking it slow at the moment due to spinal issues that won’t allow the high impact. So walking has to be good enough for the time being.
Earlier today, I went for a walk through the neighborhood and while I was out, I passed a handful of guys throwing a football around in a driveway. Just after I had passed by the foot of the driveway, one or two of the guys started cat-calling and making some offensive noises. I just kept walking and acted as if I didn’t notice what they were doing, but it set my mind on a series of thoughts that I have from time to time when I’m out exercising alone.
Do I feel safe when I’m out by myself? Maybe it’s irrational, but I doubt that I’m the only one who has these kinds of thoughts. They may not be the most common stories you see on the daily news, but there are enough stories of young women being abducted or abused to make me feel uncomfortable in certain situations. I don’t want to feel unsafe or that I have to bring my husband along each time I go out for a walk or a run but I do feel safer when he’s with me and that makes me sad.
Maybe I’m blowing an innocent enough situation out of proportion, but I don’t think it’s ok to objectify women and make them feel unsafe when they’re alone. Am I the only one who ever feels that tinge of fear?
In other news, moving day is in less than 2 days! We’re on our way back to Maryland and will be officially through with living in Michigan. It’s been most of 6 years that we’ve lived up here and now it’s finally coming to a close. I don’t know if I can say it’s bittersweet but there are a handful of things that I will miss having close by, namely St. Joseph and Lake Michigan.
Also, I made my first microwaved sweet potato today! It actually turned out pretty well and it’s kind of nice that I didn’t have to wait 45+ minutes for it to cook in the microwave. Winning!
Anyways, keep us in your thoughts for the next 48 hours as we drown in packing boxes and a long drive. <3
1 Comment
No, you’re not the only one. I’ve never exercised outside except at college and even then I normally was inside. Kind of limiting, but considering I live alone, I’m not sure if there’s a good solution.