‘She has lived a full life’, anyone around her would say. Just shy of 73 years old, she has two gracious children and three doting grandchildren, with a fourth on the way. Though lonely at times after the unexpected death of her husband six years ago, she holds steadfastly to her cherished momentos and fond memories of days well spent. Long-gone now, her parents provided her with a brimming support foundation through her youth and into her prosperous career as a web-developer.

As an only child in a stable, wealthy family, she grew up educated with a humble viewpoint of the world. Following in her parents’ footsteps, she often sook the comfort of nature and outdoor exploration for times of both happiness and solace. Beginning only a few months after birth, her weekends and vacations were filled with activities under the sun. During the dreadful teenage years, the constant kayaking and hiking trips became more of a nuisance than source of pleasure.

However, after college and what felt like a jarring thrust into adulthood, she realized how lucky she was for her lively, energetic parents and previous outdoorsy lifestyle. Working long hours in a city teeming with with an over-abundance of citizens, she longed for the rare opportunities she stole to walk among trees. She loved her job, but her heart ached to reclaim the same hobbies she had carelessly left behind.

Thankfully, she went on to meet her future husband and re-located to a more suitable area for her interests. The years passed, and she vigorously tried to bestow her children with the same passions and environmentally-conscious mindset. This mission proved exceedingly successful as one son became a scientist specializing in reducing greenhouse gases and the other a lawyer to protect green spaces from ever-groping corporate hands.

In present-time, she fills her days with tennis and community service functions, gathering with fellow organization members; the majority have been called friends for over a decade. Though her pace has slowed incrementally, especially with two knee replacements in recent years, she continues in her pursuits to stay active and healthy. She feels restless with the foreseeable, downhill-sloping future ahead. Even with everything she has accomplished, surely there must be something greater.

Her bucket list desires have been crossed off one-by-one. She has completed a marathon, gotten a (small) tattoo, jumped out of a plane, and written a book. Her travel zest, instilled at an early age by her thrill-seeking aunt taking her to visit the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, has calmed. Among her greatest troves of expeditions include studying abroad in Italy, climbing rugged Mt. Kilimanjaro, and cruising to the frigid waters of Antarctica.

One item remains uncrossed, however. A grueling journey she has continuously dismissed for lack of time, and more probable, courage. No excuses left now; she will return to her wilderness home for one last, defining adventure, regardless of her age. Riley will hike the Appalachian Trail.