There's nothing like a nice vineyard to make you feel better about life. I know everyone is familiar w the tranquil & calming properties of going to the beach or the spa. Duh. But let me tell you, strolling by, or through, a vineyard can be just as peace inducing. If you think about it, it makes complete sense. It's a large body of landscaped land. Like a walk in the park...same vein, right? St. Stanislaus church keeps its doors locked unless it's mass time. Which is unfortunate for those of us that want to stop by on an off hour/day to light a candle, or just reflect. In SF, I can walk into Sts. Peter & Paul any weekday or Saturday, any time I want, before closing. And when I lived in NYC, I frequently visited St. Paul The Apostle during the regular week. I wasn't aware that this was a luxury that other churches do not necessarily offer. That is, until I came to St. Stan's, & the doors were locked. Returning to my car, I found myself staring at the vineyard I was accidentally overlooking. The Gallo E&J Maze Ranches are right next to, & behind, the church. You see acres & acres of grapes. Everything was so still. It was beautiful, majestic, & peaceful. So, in the end, I got what I came for even though the church was locked. Quiet reassurance. Maybe I'm a grape whisperer?! 5 stars. read more

Gallo E & J Maze Ranches - View of the property from St. Stan's. - Modesto, California