Rain can't dampen our rock climbing adventure. Droplets fall on the boat ride to Railey. Fitted with safety gear, we practice figure-8 knots until the lines are ready.

Chalk hands, scramble up, and enjoy the grip the dry limestone offers. So forgiving, until the eyes wander down.

Great heights! This line will snap, break, tumble.

Cling, shake, sweat.

"Keep going!"

The ease evaporates. I push to the top ring, shaking and proud.

By the second, my arms are lead.

I envy Ethan's reach and height. Speed demon.

The third wall, I finish two thirds of the way up. Still exhilarating.