If there are hot spots on the globe, as the ancients believed, Hillsborough must be one of them. I can't count the number of historic markers in the gracious old town. More recently, some ground force is attracting an astonishing number of writers, artists, and musicians. On a stroll along the main street, you'll likely pass the author of one of your favorite books, the director of a great documentary, or a blues guitar player you always admired. Say hello. The natives are friendly. —Frances Mayes, author of Under  the Tuscan Sun and Hillsborough-area resident