I'm an  owl' too but I don't like walking in the dark.I'm not keen on rain eiethr and never set off in it. I usually avoid walking far unless the forecast is okay. Once or twice I've been caught out  on the tops' in heavy rain and it wasn't much fun!I'm a walker and a cyclist so I've experienced both aspects of sharing paths. I've noticed an increasing number of people using MP3 players so I half expect people not to hear me approaching and pass with caution.My back isn't great, but I've found that regular exercise does strengthen it. I always wear eiethr a small Camelbak bag or a rucksack to carry stuff on my back. Never carry a bag over one shoulder because it twists your back and that WILL make it hurt.The  pee' problem might be due to taking in too much caffeine before you go out. I used to have that problem so now I only drink water before a walk or a bike ride and that definitely helps. I usually have a large tea or coffee afterwards.Dogs   I completely agree!I prefer to catch a train or bus out then walk back though sometimes I do it the other way round for a change.