How is it that when finding the perfect words to capture your meaning, passion, and intent is paramount, it seems impossible? Yes I am hugely guilty of using “I’m fine” thousands of times, but I am not referring to those times. I am thinking of those defining moments when you need to really thank a friend for being there, to redirect a relationship so it’s better for the long term, or sincerely apologize for hurting someone. And while not as critical as getting it right in these situations, I have also struggled since buying the winery in 2007 to capture in a few words why this endeavor matters so much to me and why I am passionate about sharing this special place with friends and guests. The marketing world would say I am searching for a tagline, Cellardoor’s Just Do It, but surprise, surprise, I don’t like the word tagline.

The search for the right words has finally ended. Thankfully my friends, Kevin and Chris, captured it all with “Live your life. Be who you are. Drink good wine along the way.” Behind that phrasing there is the post-cancer belief that living life, having a highlight every day is important. Fine just isn’t good enough. Everyday is precious. There’s the hope that walking in your own skin will bring pride and contentment. And the reminder to smell the roses, value friendships, and to share times, over a glass of wine possibly, with the people who matter.

 And in the understatement of the day, week, month, and year, I am “happy” that the call finally came on Friday that my cancer isn’t back. So I can keep honestly saying, cancer is the best thing that ever happened to me. Cancer inspired me to change my life completely, get comfortable with who I really am, and slow down enough to enjoy a glass of wine with friends. I also got to buy the winery.

Live,

 Bettina