This card was inspired by the 48th chapter of the book "50 Truths Worth Knowing."
Rachel was living abroad (in the south of France) where she was studying art at the University. It was mid-terms and the professor had given the students tie away from class, to study. Rachel seized the opportunity and went in search of art-worthy scenes to recreate in her sketch book.
She found a wrought iron gate with an entrance through a cement wall. She'd seen it before but never stopped to explore. This time she stepped through the gate and descended to a lovely courtyard. Rachel took out her sketch book and supplies and got to work. She sketched a child who was racing giddily around the fountain and the child who was dangling a hand into the water. Other sketches including the couple picnicking in the sunshine, the birds that flew around, and so much more. Of the experience, Rachel wrote, "I remember looking up and feeling my good fortune and taking note. I wasn't in it for ht grades. I didn't need to be anywhere. I didn't want for anything. I was just living - calmly, graciously."
And those memories (and that sketchbook) were the memories she took home with her when her time in France concluded.
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