Dierdre Wolownick is just one of those remarkable people who decided to do something seemingly impossible (you know, learn to speak eight languages, create an actual orchestra, start running marathons at age 55, climb Yosemite’s El Capitan at age 66), and then they just do it, no matter what it takes. Why she’s not in a Nike ad, we’re not sure. We talk to Dierdre about the adventure that has been her life, how she raised two fearless children (one of whom, Alex Honnold, happens to climb the world’s most imposing rock faces without safety gear!), and why she thinks making a will is something every parent should do right now. She shares her adventures and her philosophy for living a life without limits, and inspires us to take the next step toward our dreams, no matter where we are on our own journey. As we begin the new year, and the new decade, we can all use her brand of resilience, moxy and downright awesomeness.

To see photos of Karen and Dierdre (and the strawberry cake) in California, and to learn more about Dierdre’s paintings and her book, “The Sharp End of Life: A Mother’s Story,” visit us at myfarewelling.com. If you have a question or a comment for Dierdre, write us an email at info@myfarewelling, or catch up with us on social media @myfarewelling. We’d love to hear from you, especially if you’re living your own bucket list! #livingmybucket