Herd instinct, or who is actually good to eat cherries with?

"Cherry Blossom Trail... you absolutely have to go there sometime!"

They said so.

The ultimate experience for all lovers of blooming splendor in all white.

Every Frank has been there before.

So so.

The time has come. We're coming to Pretzfeld! However, in an unusual formation. But more on that later.

Ms. Kati's plan works. At least at the beginning. Anyone can do it in nice weather. That's why the beautiful, windy, rainy start, always close to the water, doesn't bother her in the slightest.

And indeed, the first stage belongs to the brave.

We pass Franconian cherry trees, Chinese synchronized avenues with identical pruning. And also the solitary trees. Here and there along the roadside, they wave and wink at us.

They enjoy their unique selling point. Understandable.

What started as a hidden gem is apparently developing into a high-end event for cherry-themed selfie hunters. At least according to the internet.

But first, let's get down to brass tacks.

Free Willy. The fish that came out of the book.

Isn't he pleading with us hopefully from the bookshelf here?

"Take me with you! I can do magic!"

Ms. Kati didn't need to be asked twice. Curious, she put Willy in her backpack, completely captivated by the babbling brook nearby.

The question that will likely be asked more often today is: Is herd instinct actually worthwhile, or is it better to follow your own instincts?

You spot some brave cherry blossom fanatics gradually gathering together and setting off.

If we're going to have cherries, with whom exactly?

Ms. Kati is lucky. Very lucky indeed.

Two of the world's best hiking buddies are accompanying her today. It's truly a pleasure to be with them.

If it has to be a herd, then please choose a harmonious one.

Ms. Kati has certainly found one. Definitely for here and now.

Willy sighs with delight inside his backpack as he introduces his friends. They live not far from the cherry orchards in the gentle lavender field, not far from the legendary Pretzfeld cellars.

A minute's silence is observed in memory of all friends of water. And a gift is promptly presented.

A blue crater tears open the grey sky and from afar one can hear the cheerful sound of the small chapel up on the mountain.

"Come in, greetings from God! My place is small, I am pure!"

Herds must wait outside, here in the Cherry God's Garden!

Don't lose your true perspective just for a quick Instagram click!

What words! One thing that always surprises you here is how everyone is up-to-date with the times.

I'll tell you, I'm only participating virtually today. I've decided. I definitely don't need all that herd mentality.

Never.

Luckily, everyone accepts me as I am. Nobody always has to come along. I get to decide. With my wife Kati and my family, it's truly wonderful to be able to enjoy life beyond all time and space.

While people can now admire the temple complexes of the Order of the Beech Leaves, which has specially set up resting places along the roadside for the weary, restless cherry lovers of all the world, a gnarled door practically pulls one into the cold shadow of its walls.

Hui hui Hui.. a torture cellar?

They decide to sing a little song. A contrast to the grey, cold, dark hole.

Some are magically drawn to it, but Ms. Kati's flock cheerfully decides today: This door is not ours. It's perfectly fine to simply walk past. Not every abyss needs to be explored.

And while the delicate scent of cherry blossoms and tulips dances through the noses, all those who have not lost their true vision discover the diversity of colors here and now.

Just walk and marvel. That's my motto.

The variety of delicious cakes at the edge of the sea of cherry blossoms was a perfect end to a wonderful gathering of friends without me. But with herd instinct. The right kind.

Until the next adventure,

Yours truly, Gretl!