This has been the hardest section to write both because the answer seems obvious and I think I could write a book about it!

First, walking is its own reward, lifting the spirits with a sense of well being, strengthening the body and allowing time to really see the beauty that surrounds us. These hills have inspired my artwork and the friendly people have been a source of encouragement. Of course, a glass of fine Pinot Noir in a beautiful garden, sometimes shared with the winemaker or farmer, is a delightful way to relax.

So much of our time is consumed in a dull routine of driving between activities. We check off each stop in an unwritten to do list that stretches from our work through our leisure time.

Park the car.

Feel the sun and wind. Walk a mile or two into the hills. A ground squirrel stops in the middle of the road and you just watch, no need to hit the break or swerve. Insects hum under the warming sun. A pair of hawks soars on the rising air. Vibrant green vines reach up to a cobalt blue sky. You can feel the intense color, as the steep hills quicken your heart and a cool breeze chills the sweat popping on your arm. Time slows.

We cross a gravel road, walk between the lush edges of a hilltop vineyard bordered by old hazelnut trees and enter the cool of a Japanese garden. Lunch and your first flight of local wines wait. Take a seat, take your time. You can smell the wild fruit of Pinot Blanc before you have the glass in hand.

The rest of the day waits, taken only as fast as good conversation and foot steps allow.