Approaching her daughter's high school graduation, Susan Emmerich told friends she was eager to begin a new chapter in her life. She envisioned more time, more freedom and more gas in her car. After 18 years of parenting, Ms. Emmerich was excited at the prospect of being able to put her own needs first. She lied. Recently divorced, coping with her father's illness and dealing with ever-fluctuating mid-life hormones, the author did two things: bought a bike and picked up a pen. Through riding and writing, she found her voice and retained her spirit. Sometimes serious, other times humorous, Ms....