Vacations are a great way to rest and refresh. That’s where I’ve been for the past 10 days - on vacation.

This vacation was also an opportunity to test my yoga skills in other ways. (??? - what does that mean?)

It means that in the 8 days we were cruising the Rhone River in France, I was also being physically challenged by the excursions we signed up for.

• First, there was a 2.5 hour walk in Lyon - from the river up (via tram) to the “Upside Down Elephant Basilica” (that is really its name). That part wasn’t so bad. The next part - going down - involved many (concrete) steps, resulting in sore knees and legs that ‘screamed’ at me for 2 days after.

• Then, because I am a glutton for punishment, we walked up to a vantage point in Vienne - looking out at the town and the river. This was an uphill walk, but you know what they say about what goes up …

• The next day involved a walk up (and down) through one of the Rhone Valley Vineyards. Challenging because of the somewhat slippery stones. The good part of this was a tasting of wines and a stop at the Valrhona Chocolate Shop (yum!)

• Our day in Avignon involved two hikes - one to the Pope’s Palace from our ship, and the next was an afternoon hike to the top of the ‘Pont du Gard Aqueduct’.

My, My — my iWatch has never seen so many steps!

Through all of the above, friendships were formed and challenges met.

Now in Nice, we look out at the coast of the Mediterranean. Beautiful view. And we plan to take the remainder of our vacation to rest and refresh.

And, if you’re wondering, I was able to complete homework through this Sunday for my Nutrition course. I’m learning a lot, changing habits a bit, and noticing changes. Good stuff!