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The sun again shines in the Rhône Valley which is known for having—on average—over
three-hundred and thirty days of sunshine each year making Sion the sunniest spot in
this country of Switzerland. There is a slight chill in the air. I have my cup of hot ginger-pear
flavored white tea to warm me. And—I will admit: red coat—hat—and gloves. I am toasty
warm. I love these cool mornings — as long as I'm warm. The sunshine reaches this balcony
in late morning and stays until the sun sets behind the mountain.
I found two four-leaf clovers yesterday before we got onto a small van at the Haute-Nendaz
Office of Tourism to take us to a town across the valley by the name of Veysonnaz. From
there—we walked along the Grand Bisse de Vex to Planchouet. At Planchouet—we ate
a salade de viand séché before we trekked the Bisse du Milieu back to Haute-Nendaz.
We walked more than thirteen kilometers (which is over eight miles). It was one of the best
walks René and I were ever on and will always be remembered.
What makes a walk special? We have been on many. For me—a special walk has many corners
and surprises. I found yesterday's was easy for you followed a small irrigation stream
along a path leading through forests—backyards—and alps. The wonderful view of the mountains
was a constant surprise. The few cows we saw (the Hérens breed) had bells to remind us
of our place here in this country where mountains and cows lead to cafés. We had a beautifully
designed Swiss salad and got more ideas on how to prepare food. Little wooden boxes along
the paths held informative cards explaining customs and folklore. We saw people of all
ages walking—too. Yet—we always felt we were alone in this country where tourists
are welcomed. What makes a walk special? Length? Most times—yes.
Difficulty? A titch. Beaty? A definite: Yes! Diversity? This helps remember. Now—don't
ask me what special walks we have in our past. Each time I try to answer this in my own mind—I
am neglectful of some of the most wonderful which bubble up unexpectedly when I see something
or hear a sound or wish a thought. These bursts of memories make a walk special. Of course—every
walk and each sight we see during this vacation will be "special" as I am celebrating a special
holiday—my Sixtieth Birthday. I have considered this whole year as a special
Holiday year. I find it helps when I can spread happiness during many weeks. This year has
been full of adventure in many places. I treasure each getaway. I treasure each staycation.
I do have to pace myself. Today—for example—I will have to sit and enjoy the view. Perhaps—I
will finish reading another book. Perhaps—I will scribble. Perhaps—we will hop on the
post bus and go to Sion. Perhaps—I will merely listen to the cowbells which I now
hear and follow the Sun's rays as it changes the shadows creating patterns new to my eyes
on the Mountains across the Rhône Valley. And—I see the Antenna. Supposedly—the
short walk to the Antenna is rewarded with a terrific view of the Valley floor. In other
words—pacing myself means making decisions from a list which is ever present. I have
no trouble spending my leisurely moments. Right now—I could pause and watch the puffs
of clouds grow on the Mountain peaks. They are many bits of cotton dabbing the pristineness
which we tourists have come to expect. I am willing to believe that at the end of this
day I will say: What a great—Happy Day! With my binoculars—I can see a small flock
(about a dozen) of sheep grazing on what looks like a small lawn in the houses in front of
this balcony. The presence of livestock in towns and cities is a given in Switzerland.
However—chickens are a true commodity. I wonder where eggs sold in stores are bought?
I do not recall ever seeing a poultry farm here. That must be the reason chicken is one
of the more expensive meats to buy. No matter. The livestock we see are always well-cared
for and have a content demeanor. Gracious—we have only been here in Haute-Nendaz
for two days. I dare say we have done two-weeks of sightseeing. I feel I should make a list
of what we should see for we do not wish to miss any opportunities.
Opportunities I have been handed this year alone I do appreciate. There have been many.
Dare I say there will be many more? This is not a concern.
Today is saturday. Today is a day to begin living in Haute-Nendaz and not touring. This
is a luxury when one spends a whole month in a place. One can discover the small details.
One does not have to be concerned with running from attraction to attraction with no time
to stop and ponder about the wealth of information and beauty one encounters.
Today is Saturday. A shopping day? I do like to shop—yet—I don't actually require anything.
It could very well be a browsing day. I like to browse as well as shop. Oh—it will probably
be best to browse through pages of a book and shop for ideas. Rather—gather more ideas
to flesh out the myriad I have. My mind never stops. It has to run.