Sorry about ignoring a thread I had started guys, but I have been slightly busy elsewhere.
Wifey and me have the same discusion every year and I try to assure her. Bloody hell.. it's not as if I'm not insured or something.
Totally agree that the view out of the window totally negates any perceived extra risks. It really is magical.
Also, if you have been delayed departing then the NR gets you back to base, same as the IMC if you are down in France and there's a front pushing through.
With regards to pre-flight checks, no matter what the purists might say, we must look closer because of the extra element of risk.
I for one would not fly a single engine on an extension at night, it can be argued that the thing is either worn out or "bedded in" but I don't wish to find out which is true in the dark.
But, despite saying all the above, is it not true that most engine failures are caused by the pilot's mishandling of the fuel system and the lump in general?
So good engine management should help protect your interests at night.