Shaken

I normally like to keep my blog posts cheerful and funny, however something very scary happened to me tonight that I want to share with you.

Those of you who know me well know that I am addicted to Diet Coke. So much so, that at 10:30 this evening I decided to make a quick run to Wal Mart to pick up a case. I have never ever given any thought into dashing out alone late in the evening. I have never ever felt unsafe doing so, and tonight was no different.

I got to the store and instead of getting my Diet Coke and leaving I decided to look around. A man was sweeping the floor (without an employee shirt or nametag). He looked up at me and said "Hi." In an effort to be polite I nodded and greeted him. I went about my business and headed to the craft section of the store. I looked up and the man was just across the aisle without his broom looking at me. I will tell you that my first thought, was "Really? Me? It is raining and I'm soaking wet, wearing bleached yoga pants. I am not that cute looking."

I felt odd about the situation and proceeded to move away from that part of the store. I got my Diet Coke, noticed the man again, and quickly headed for the car. As I was walking to the car I observed that the man was following me. My stomach dropped. I put my thumb on my alarm button and pressed my car keep between my fingers. As I approached my car from the rear, he approached my car from the front.

He put his arm against the driver's door preventing me from opening it (or at least it very much felt that way.) I was extremely panicked. He asked me if I was married, why I was out so late, where I was going, etc. In an effort to keep the situation light and calm I replied in an upbeat manner, finally telling him that I had people waiting for me at home, wondering where I was. He said "ok" and walked away.

I got in the car, locked my doors, and drove home all while watching to make sure no one followed me. I got home, safe and sound, and called the Manager of WalMart. I described the man and the situation. He was apologetic, offered to call the police, and said he would look into it.

I wanted to share this with you as a warning. Ladies, do not go out alone at night. I never would have given a late night trip to the store a second thought. Never in my wildest imagination would I, of all people, have thought I would be in danger of this type of a scenario. If you sense that someone is behind you or you are generally uneasy...follow your gut. Speak to the manager. Get an escort to your car. Just be safe.

I am feeling incredibly shaken to the core, but I am ok.

-h