Wow, I did not realize how special my machine is.
Mine automatically lifts the foot when I stop sewing, thats when Im in needle down mode.
Then automatically goes down when I start to sew.
I love this feature and use it all the time.
When not in needle down mode, I just push a button to raise the foot then it automatically lowers when I start to sew.
I have the Viking Sapphire 830.