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Thankful – Blessed Beyond Belief

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Thankful

Thankful 1

Sunrise – Sea of Galilee 11/23/17 Thanksgiving in Israel

Blessed Beyond Belief

Thankful 2

West bank of Sea of Galilee

Thanksgiving 2017 in Tiberius, Israel

November 14th marked the 1 year anniversary of a year that had many interesting twists, turns, firsts, adventures, and new things.

  • First time to ever visit the Big Apple! Along with that 4 day visit there were many 1st! Macy’s decorated for Christmas and getting ready for the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Tiffany’s, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Central Park, memorial for the Twin Towers, the Garment District, Times Square, Madison Square Garden, Rockefeller Center, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Fall 2017 Israel

Sunset over Jerusalem, Israel

  • First trip to the Middle East – Israel – Bucket list trip!!!! So much more than I can ever put into this post, but this made me thankful beyond belief. I knew before I ever left that I would be going back…. I just did not know when. I now know how much God loves this piece of land, these people and defends it like He does was for me to share with anyone who will listen. This is why I will be taking people over there April 2019. Israel Registration Form April 2019
Thankful 10

Christmas Eve Communion – Grant, Greer, Amber, Noah, Mom & Mrs. Patterson

  • Celebrated Christmas for the first time truly knowing that this holiday somewhat has nothing to do with the day that Christ was actually born.
  • Noah finally got his drivers license and a car!
  • The grand turned 2! You know what that means….new stages to watch her grow through and experience.
Thankful 18

Israel 11/17 vs Israel 05/18

  • I worked hard to gain strength & lose some weight…this is still an ongoing process. Dropped 23lbs. Gained a new injury, so 6 lbs.chased me down and caught me. * Still have 20 to go!
  • February 26, 2018 my blog went live for a second, but I launched it in March.

Thankful 20

  • Helped prepare my handsome Senior for his Senior Prom. The only dance that he ever attended in all of his school years.
Thankful 20

Zippor, IL

  • Another 1st: International travel – Alone! I began working on putting a trip together to take people who wanted to go to Israel. I was watching airfares and rooms. The stars aligned and a terrific price for airline ticket, great rate on a rental car & rooms April 23 – May 9, 2018. So, you guessed it I went back to Israel. 14 days – solo. I have been posting each of these days individually. If you want more details you can check those out in post Travel – Trips – Israel
  • We had Wayne’s 50th, Mother’s day and Noah’s high school graduation all with in a two week period of May. Wow…. Empty nest is upon us… A definite 1st in 31 years……
Noah - 2018

LOVE…

  • I came home to celebrate Wayne’s 50th birthday, so we had a delayed party on Memorial Day weekend with the Fason’s at the boat with friends and family.
Thankful 25

Wayne Big 5 0!!! Greers Ferry Lake WIT with Fason’s & Friends

  • June 8th we celebrated the twin’s and my precious momma’s birthday. Mom’s celebration was a month early. We were going to be moving Noah to college on her birthday. We grilled hot dogs and had fun poolside. OH, except Ms. Jettie – I told her she could have whatever she wanted, so she ordered filet and that’s exactly what she got. She even took the leftovers home with her. 😉
  • We had a great Whatever It Takes in LR, AR with Angela Chrysler President, CEO and Mary Lou Loehr, Owner of Team National.
  • The later half of June began a month of extreme health challenges for mom. She had a couple of hospital visits. We were thinking it might be heart issues, only to find out that she had lung disease that was so advanced that this would call for meds that made no difference. The side effects from this would take a toll on her over the next 60 days.
Thankful 29

Independence Day

  • July 4th we celebrated on the lake with Fason’s in true American red, white and blue style! * Food, family & friends!
  • July 6th we packed and moved Noah to college… He is at his new home away from home for the next few years at College of the Ozarks. Grateful that he is on a campus that is a perfect fit for him and that he will receive his whole education with very little cost out of our pocket. His 4 years of education will be in the $120,000.00 range approximately, looks that we will be in it for around 5-10K, blessed beyond measure.  
  • July would be more trips to college, lake and Doctors offices for mom. Cardio, Pulmonologists, GP and Rhumetologist.
  • August was looking great with a much needed trip for business (Team National), Anniversary (little belated), and a day or two of vaycay. Ft. Lauderdale, FL is a really great place! Excellent food, great times with wonderful people.
Thankful 31

Parents weekend

  • August 17 – Parents day at C of O! We headed home on the 18th little did I know that my Mom would take a fall that morning before I got back into town. We went by to visit her and she was a little sore but no major issues. No sooner than I got home and started dinner, I got a phone call that mom had fell again…It was BAD, REALLY BAD. They would finally do surgery at 10 pm, she made it through and was holding her own till around 4:30 pm Sunday afternoon. Do to not being off of blood thinner and this being a compound fracture she would slip off to meet Jesus about 10:30 pm on August 19, 2018. SO, therefore my friends life changed for this momma’s girl. I have since had to step into many new roles and carry titles that I wish for none of my friend’s. Parent-less is strange to say, but at last it is a new title that I fill. I am blessed that I was able to spend the time that I could these last few years. I am SO very glad that I did not have to watch her slowly suffer and struggle with the suffocation from the lung issues that were coming.Not to mention how awful the healing and rehab were going to be from the break. I am so thankful that she always did life her way. I grateful beyond belief to know without a doubt that I will see her again. She is in her eternal home with the other half of her family, but I feel her her in the smile of my daughter and son. I her her gentle laugh in the giggle of my grand. I taste her love in every recipe that she has shared and then would confirm I did it right when I made it for her.
Thankful 32

August 19, 2018

  • Grateful that I married into a family that the grandmother’s accepted and loved me just like I was theirs. Gladys Noles loved me the entire 23 years that she knew me. I will miss her. We laid our last grandmother to rest in October. There were definitely many bittersweet days the last few months. Heaven gained some good ones this year.
  • First Thanksgiving to be completely parent and grandparent less…. Except I am a lucky girl who has a fantastic Mother & Father in Law! #blessed
Thankful 33

Thanksgiving 2018

  • The last few months I have been journeying through the blog world. Navigating daily without my momma’s voice, but her spirit driving me. I’ve been building a trip for people to experience the Holy Land next Spring.
Jaffa, Israel

Can’t wait for others to visit the amazing Israel!

Thankful & grateful for health, family and friends! I know that I am the daughter of the King and I am blessed beyond belief! Can’t wait for 2019! Let’s do this! 

Living in a rhapsody full world,

Trina

Treats Not Tricks! It’s Fearless Friday Y’all!

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Saturday evening was the

beginning of what would be several

days of lots of fun times!

Fearless Friday treats not tricks will give a glimpse

at a fun no hassle week,

for once, in a long while!

Steampunk Fun

Ready to go!

The Cabana Boy decided that he would finally get it in gear, just suck it up, take a generous amount of supplements & meds, drink a large glass of orange juice 🍊 with a little “kick” 🥃, and haunt along with me. I will be doing a more in depth post on our costumes at a later date. Steampunk round 2! (Steampunk round 1 – 2017) Probably will pop up in October….next year – 2019, hahahaha! NO procrastination here, just perfection. I want it very detailed, so it takes a minute.

 

My sister and brother in-law dropped by for a day or two, so that’s always a treat. It would have been even better, had I been able to talk her into bringing hair clippers or a bottle of color. I really didn’t even try this time, though. I’m just going to have to make a trip to visit her….soon. Trying to decide on style / color… If you have suggestions drop them in the comments.

Best Treat Yet!!!!

Camper 10_2018

Can’t wait to get started on this project.

We’ve been looking for a camper for a while. I found one we went to look at on Monday. My new home away from home arrived in my driveway on Tuesday! This is my favorite kind of sweet treat for me – – – NO CALORIES! And it will be enjoyed for a while, not just once. This will be the inspiration for MANY post to come, I’m sure. It’s in great shape, but will be getting a glamping makeover! Besides all of the travel we will be doing in it. So ExCiTeD!!!!!

T or T with the Grand!

Sweetest face ever! Yep, prejudice!

Halloween 10_2018 #1

Greer MDO Trick or Treat

Greer’s MDO Trick or Treat was a great success Tuesday morning. They take the children all around town to local businesses. The owners & towns people are happily awaiting them. My little Minnie Mouse was precious. I was blessed to be able to do this for the second year in a row.

After that nice little stroll, I headed to pick up one of my FAVORITE twins.

Halloween 10_2018 #4

Cathy Wilcox – Headed to BBLL on haunting’s…

Cathy Wilcox joined me on the next haunted outing.

We went to the Old State House

Halloween 10_2018 #5

Speaker: Brian Irby is an Archival Assistant at the Arkansas State Archives. He holds a B.A. and M.A. in History from UCA, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public History at UALR.

Museum for a Brown Bag Lunch Lecture.

Our speaker for the day was Brian Irby. He spoke on other haunting’s last year, too. They do BBLL once to twice a month on various topics throughout the year. This one just so happened to be about places in Arkansas that are tied to stories that they might be haunted. Some of the stories have been totally debunked. A few have no explanation of apparitions, noises and ghostly appearances, all the while one was just completely creepy….

Old Mike 😳

Halloween 10_2018 #6

Story telling

That story was about “Old Mike,” who died in Prescott, AR. He was a traveling salesman. He arrived by train. No I.D. was found when he died in 1911. They embalmed him and put him in a casket on display for a while. To see if anyone would know him.?.?.? The funeral home was also the local hardware store. No one ever claimed him. He eventually ended up in a closet in the back. He was a local draw. People just came in to see “Old Mike,” so they were sent back for a look. Local school children even took field trips to see him. A circus tried to buy him, but the townspeople thought that would be inhumane. Every few years they would re-embalm him and put new clothes on him. (Eeewwww yuck!) After Arkansas State Legislature put laws on the books, someone sought to have him buried.

Halloween 10_2018 #7

Old Mike – Bust

Which the town did in 1975, some 64 years after he had died. NOT creepy at all… But if you are ever that direction and would like to take a peek a replica bust of him is on display in Prescott’s Depot Museum.

Mount Holly Cemetery

Halloween 10_2018 #20

Trina with angel

After Cathy and I wrapped things up at the BBLL we decided to head on up Broadway a little piece to the Mount Holly Cemetery. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Arkansas, if not anywhere. It has some of the oldest graves around. If you are ever around it is worth the trip, especially if you happen to be a cemetery / history buff, which I happen to be a little infatuated with both.

Fun with Friends

Houseboat fall fun 2016

Wayne, Bill, Marie, Donna, Robert & Trina

A fun Halloween evening was wrapped up with wishing good friends farewell for now, as they will be relocating to Wisconsin next week. We were able to bid them farewell with steaks – hot off the grill, sweet potatoes, wine, a great visit and happy time. What a treat, no trick about it! We love you Bill & Marie and will miss you immensely! Be blessed in your new segment of life.

Halloween 10_2018 #21

Years together 1

Halloween 10_2018 #22

Years of fun 2

It’s Friday y’all find something that makes you fearful and DO IT anyway! Be FEARLESS!

Enjoying my state of Rhapsodyville,

Trina

Reunion – Cabot Panthers Class of 88

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CHS Class of 88 - Reunion

CHS Class of 88

Class Reunions

Yes / No – Do I go???? Well, some I have attended and some I’ve skipped. Thing is, between the Cabana Boy and I we can rack up some serious time & money if we decide to do all of ours. He is Mills Class of 86. I am Cabot High School Class of 87 & 88. Yep, that’s right I have a graduating class, which was 1987, and was a classmate in the Class of 88 K – 10th.

CHS Class of 88 - Reunion 1

Cabot High School Campus

CHS Class of 88 - Reunion 2

Thank you Eric Hodges for all the drone shots!

Panther football is the real main attraction!

CHS Class of 88 - Reunion 3

Friday Night Lights

So, when the 30 year reunion was approaching we thought we’d try to make some of 3. His class didn’t find enough interest to even plan one. Last year we had a small – medium turn out for Cabot High School 87 alums. A couple of weekends ago we converged on the campus and in a local venue outside the edge of town for two evenings of reconnecting. 

Friday after game event @ Dick & Elsie’s Place

A HUGE “thank you” to all of those on the committee who worked so hard to make this event successful!

It was excellent to meet spouses. We shared fond memories, as well as made new ones. There were tales of children and grands, new loves and lost ones, heartaches and heartbreaks. Most of all there was an electricity that filled the air. The buzz that made us want to go to school, share a common bond, take care of our fellow classmates & friends.

The Memory Tree

CHS Class Reunion

Remembering those who left too soon.

It Takes Two….

CHS 88 Night 2 - 3

Thank you to Centennial Bank for the donation of the food for night 1, Pizza Pro in Cabot night 2!

Pizza Pro of Cabot

Johnny & Lisa Campbell

Look who it is…..

‘Awards’

Look for all the award winners in the video.

Liz Boatman Borger – ‘Awards’ as best I recall….

Most changed: Brad Eubanks and Taunya Gillam

Least Changed: Bobby Finley and Renee Dixon

Dude with most hair: Bryan Price

Eligible Bachelor: Danny Gunter

Eligible Bachelorette: Michelle Laferney

Most grandkids: Mary Rogers (7)

Youngest child : Michael Risley (4 yr. old)

Most surprised to see: Mr. Raegan ( he was not present… Liz was runner up… has the prize in a safe place!😉)

Traveled the furthest: Kortne (1284 mi) and Liz (1469 mi) ( distance could not be verified at event due to crappy service…. 😁. Pretty darn close!)

Fond Memories

I tried to talk to most. Some I realized, I just didn’t know, so if I didn’t speak, I’m sorry. Please come to the next one and make sure I do. My only request was for the names on the name tags be a LOT larger font or pass out readers, LOL. 

You drop me a comment and stay in touch. I would love to stay in contact and not just have to “catch up.” We never know what the next 5 years holds…. May all who read this be blessed. Be brave – we’ve ALL changed…some more than others. Be forgiving – if you’ve never went to a reunion because of a teenage wound, please allow for time to have healed it. Give it a go…you just never know…you may just have the time of your life!

Living a life in my Rhapsodyville Redneck world,

Trina

BTW would love for you all to subscribe to any / all the social media that apply to you. If for no other reason than to help a girl out. I can share just how much I was NOT learning is school😂(sorry, to any of my former teachers…..). I promise a grammar nightmare or two, if you are an editor at heart.

A super special huge “Thank You” to Sue Ollar for most all of the incredible photos! Please check out & LIKE her page on FB: Suzy’s Shots. For anyone in the Dallas area you have a terrific photographer that you should be using.

For A LOT more pictures head over to the Class of 88 FB page.

Steampunk DIY – Fearless Friday

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Steampunk DIY

Steampunk Funk

Steampunk DIY Costume 

The decision to do steampunk was mutual among my crew. Noah, is always up for a great costume. I have a love for the steampunk look and incorporate many elements in my everyday style, so I figured it would not be much of a stretch for me to create something great. I did have to take a trip to Hobby Lobby for a few extra pieces to add a little pop, but other than that I had most of the items.

Go big or go home,

so I did 2!

Steampunk DIY 1

A base to start with.

The hats I used as a base for Noah’s outfit were left over NYE party favors. I decided to do two – not knowing which method of transforming them would work the best. I wanted to try to achieve a weathered leather look. I basically paper mache’d them. I haven’t done that in like 25 years. I broke out my very FAVORITE tool to start with – iPad and headed to what I believe to be a crafters best friend – Pinterest! I was able to find many looks that I loved. So….I decided to blend several.

Prep Your Work Space!!!

Always cover the surface where you will be working on projects like this with a cheap, plastic, disposable table cloth. I failed to do that on this project and it was a regret! Before you start this project you need to locate a vase, large can of veggies, or something that won’t cause the top of the hat to bow or dip. Make sure it’s tall enough to keep it from touching anything while it dries.

Hat # 1 – Tissue Paper Hat

Recipe: Mod Podge – Homemade

Steampunk DIY 2

Tissue paper hat.

Ingredients:

1 cup of glue

⅓ cup of water

Mix well

I took at least 10 sheets (will depend on size of sheets) of tissue paper and tore it in strips. I wanted the texture of the tears, not so much a clean cut look from scissors. I only wet the hat in a spot or two to stick the tissue paper to it, then I gently applied the tissue, used a paint brush to apply more of the mixture. I had to be extremely careful. When the tissue became “too” wet, it would wad up and make a mess, so less was definitely better. I just decided I would have to do 2 – 3 applications, after it dried, completely in between each layer. I had to keep in mind that the cardboard was getting extremely soggy. Shaping the interior to fit your head while it was pliable was very important (this one was damp for long enough that it did not fit very well by the last coat).

 

Steampunk DIY 3

Newspaper hat.

Hat # 2 – Newspaper Hat

Recipe: Paper Mache Paste

Ingredients:

5 Parts Water

1 Part Flour

1-2 T. of Salt

 

Steampunk DIY 7

Paste & newspaper strips.

Directions: Put 4 parts water into a pot on the stove and bring it to a boil. While you are waiting for it to boil, mix 1 part flour to 1 part warm water. Let is dissolve & while whisking this mixture briskly to remove lumps. Once your pot of water is boiling, slowly stir in salt (helps to combat mold & mildew) along with water and flour mixture. Mix well and let it boil for 2 – 3 minutes, stirring constantly.  Mix to a gooey glue-like consistency. Add more flour and/or water as needed to achieve desired consistency. If you make more than you will use in one day, be sure to store excess in the fridge overnight. When ready for reuse, heat and add additional water to thin and smooth if necessary. I cut lots of strips of newspaper and proceeded to dip the strips in the pan / bowl, run them over the edge through your fingers to remove the excess. I only wet one at a time. Careful not to over wet the cardboard. This took 2 applications. I did let it dry completely in between the applications.

 

After they both dried the one with the newspaper fit Noah’s head the best, so we chose to make it the focus for his costume. Now on with the work!

Steampunk DIY 10

Finished & decked out!

After completely drying, I used a fine sandpaper to take the rough spots off (think I actually did sanding after 1st coat of paint). I then proceeded to paint it with acrylic paints. Black all over for the first and second coat. Brown acrylic with just a drop or two of water to thin it out and just hit certain areas with it to give definition and make it have that leathered look we were shooting for.

Steampunk DIY 11

He rocked it! Aunt ChaCha thought so, too!!!

I did not throw hat #1 out…

I may have to use it myself for a different look,

at another time.

Steampunk DIY 12

He loves being the center of attention…LOL!

Mess is cleaned up!

Yay!!! Now the fun part starts…

Adding all the bling, dull bling – punk bling!

I really had fun getting into the design lane.

My heart was made to create, it makes me happy! I have to watch myself because this kind of detailed designing, and making things like this can totally consume me. I have quite the collection of odd-n-in pieces of jewelry from over the years. I knew I had saved all the broken necklaces, bracelets, only “one earring”, leftover buttons, spare parts from different mechanical things for a reason. I just didn’t know what reason, until I started really looking at how to put this type of costume together.

Steampunk DIY 23

This is my chest of BROKEN treasure.

 I did pick up a few packs of small items at Hobby Lobby; such as sprockets, clock faces, hands for a clock, a box of mixed embellishments (which included some of my favorite round & square fasteners and some tiny glass apothecary vials. I used brooches, feathers, leather, elastic, welding goggles, swim goggles and several other odds and ends that I had in our shop, closet (closets), and jewelry boxes.

Steampunk DIY 24

Hummmm I can do so much with so little….

I had extra acrylic paint on hand to touch up things that might need a coat of brass, copper, pewter, silver or gold. For assembling I used E6000, hot glue, needle & thread, spray glue, super glue, mod podge, fasteners, chains, fishing line, pins, and wire. I think I forgot to take a picture of my beautiful “hot mess” of metal and feathers!

Steampunk DIY 16

Antique hat of my mom’s. Wish you could see the netting on the back.

Noah’s hat turned out smashingly, I think. I made Wayne goggles, he went with a very abbreviated steampunk look. He got out of what he put into it…so wasn’t much. LOL! My hat was actually an antique of sorts. I snagged it from my mom’s stash. She wore it when I was a child. The feather was so old I tried not to touch it too much, because it broke / disintegrated when I touched it. I used a gathered bunch of tulle, hot glue and a barrette to hold and attach it to the hat. I added goodies to spice it up and had a great look for very little work.

Steampunk DIY 22

All tied up!

Steampunk DIY 15

Gloves

Found the fingerless gloves for .99 cents, added a few things to liven them up. I used fasteners to add everything on them, so I was able to remove it all. They turned out pretty perfect. Noah almost didn’t give them back. I found an extra tux tie that I added a little somethin’, somethin’ to, also. What I regret is that there is not ONE picture of my entire costume. I had a great faux leather diagonal sash that had all kinds of cool gadgets attached. We can’t find a good picture of Noah’s gun either. It was a great water gun that he painted and tricked out. 

Steampunk DIY 18

He is so handsome, punk and all!

All in all, I feel that for about $20 bucks, several hours and 3 costumes, 2 parties and 1 Halloween behind us; it was very successful. Have fun and Steampunk safely!

Hope you enjoyed my Rhapsodyville

side of creatin’ somethin’! ~ Trina

 

 

Jerusalem Day 1 – Day 5 – Israel – Redneck Rhapsody Travel Girl- Rhapsodyville Style

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Jerusalem Day 1 - Spring 2018 Home for the week – AirBnB

Jerusalem Day 1 – Israel Day 5

Spring 2018 Part 1


Israel day 5, it’s starting  in Jerusalem this morning. One of my favorite places in the world. I started the day with a fantastic breakfast and great company. Oh my, did my AirBnB take the breakfast feast to a whole new level…it was a huge amount with a terrific variety. My host was a lovely, Jewish couple who were kind & friendly. They were extremely helpful with suggestions for the stay. Where to eat, park, awesome at helping with map apps, and best ways for transportation. Luckily their daughter, who serves in the IDF (Israeli Defense Force) and one of her friends was there to help polish off breakfast.

After all the residence rolled out, I spent a fair amount of time in praise & prayer, before I headed off to my first day in Jerusalem. The presence of the Holy Spirit brought tears and joy!

Best Lemon Bar Ever Homemade from scratch from FRESH picked lemons. Dessert for Breakfast

I asked the Lord to please reveal why He laid everything in place for me to be in Israel at this exact time. It was totally out of my wheelhouse. Taking an extended trip on my on, much less a trip to a foreign country. It was a definite stretch. I knew when I left in November that I would be back…. I just didn’t know it would be so soon.

Jerusalem Day 1- Out the door! Out and About

I knew that I wanted to offer the opportunity to others ( Israel Registration Form April 2019 ) to go experience all that is there. So, I felt led to really trip around on my own and see the land on God’s time schedule. My prayer for this day was, “Lord show me all that you have for me. Let me experience it and glean everything I can. Let me feel You, Yahew!”  
Just getting to the old city was a mission impossible…almost.

 

Free parking in Jerusalem – YES!

It was in the same area as dinner the night before, but just not in the parking lot, actually. It was on the fringe of one side of the parking lot with only space for about 15 cars. Did I mention that they weren’t actually spaces either… Up in the grass, or next to a gravel driveway, some parallel, some just kinda sideways and hopefully you wouldn’t end up blocked in…. So maybe I’ll just pay to park. Because, on my second trip back around to this parking lot, which is a one way area, with only one drive to leave that’s about a quarter of a mile away AND you have to circle a HUGE city block ¾ quarters of the way around it to get back into said parking lot. Pay to park, yep I’m so there:NOT – LOL…HaHaHa… You do that with an app on your phone. No biggie, right? I got this – It’s ALL in HEBREW. Needless to say there would be NO pay to park.

Good thing I prayed and the Lord totally used this trip to show me I could travel, not have stress and pressure. The ones that know me best – know that the normal me would have probably have already left the car somewhere; just get a ticket or towed. I truly decided this was all in how He wanted to show me love today. I met some great people in this parking lot adventure. I made the decision to just laugh about it all and enjoy the sights, sounds, and ancient-new, thriving city this parking lot I’d been circling like a buzzard.(Next I was going to walk for laps for a minute or 30.) Well, God’s divine number is the #3. Why not go for the ole 3rd time charms deal – say a prayer for a spot to become available (not that I hadn’t been doing that, but I did tell Him if He wanted me to see all that He had in store for me that day He had to get me parking, or I would never make it to the Old City and to the Via Dolorosa). Well God?

Jerusalem Day 1 - Parking Lot back up R E A L L Y……

Did I happen to mention that there was parking lot construction going on????

HA! Yep, ssssooooo no matter where you go, somethings are the same. I was really sitting there waiting on a cement truck OR was I really waiting on the lady who the bus dropped off, to walk to her car? All of this, just as I was about to leave the “parking fringe” for the 4th and final time. Rolled my window down to ask if she was leaving…YES! Her space was just the right fit for my car!!!! Well, God!!! Thank you!

**I may have mentioned this in one of my previous day journeys while I have been on this trip, but I decide to take a picture of or a selfie with each and every person who blessed or helped me on this trip. I told them I was going to make me a blessing/prayer picture. I came home; made a collage of the pictures printed, so I can pray for them. If this becomes redundant in my post on this particular trip, I apologize, but there are many new readers on each of these days and I want to share how good these people where to help me with the simplest tasks. Giving me a place to park at their home, helping me with putting gas in my car(pumps are in Hebrew) card would not work at pumps – only inside, giving me directions, free gifts, but most of all their time.**

Shuttle??? Anyone???

I met two people as I walked toward the area where I had been directed that the FREE shuttle should be, that would take me right to the Dung Gate. I saw a little rain shelter in that middle of the parking lot, but there was no mention of it being for the “Free” shuttle pick up, so I walked back to the opposite side; where I had seen the lady get off of the bus earlier. It was a city bus, not a “free” shuttle.

I have decided in some circumstances…..free and convenience are two total different things and “free” is overrated when the expense is time(that I could have spent in the old city), heat/sun/sweat, already hit 2500 steps, and stress – oh yeah, I’m not doing that today.

BUT…I told God I was on His time clock, so this is where the journey was happening today, right now. Believe it or not I was not anxious, really rather peaceful. Hummmm maybe I could learn how to make this a new norm (I am trying, since I know I can do it).

I finally found the shuttle after 3 different conversations, and was told very intensely to not get in ANY van EVER that wasn’t marked on the outside appropriately. This could be very dangerous. My new friend who was Jewish (now IG friends, too), was formerly from NYC, NY. Her and her husband wanted to raise their children in Jerusalem, so they had moved there about 5 years ago. They actually live in a Jewish community that is in an area of the West Bank area outside the city. I feel that she would not have warned me of this if she felt it was unwarranted. This never left my mind. I enjoyed the rest of my wait with a lovely mother & child, and a nice couple from Mexico who come yearly.

Jerusalem Day 1 - Arrived Dung Gate

We were dropped right outside the gate. Lot’s of traffic happening this morning. More than usual I was told. Besides it was not really morning anymore either, about noon, after my hour and a half parking lot venture….

Israel 2018 - Jerusalem Day 1

Prayers in the wall.

The Western Wall, ramp to ascend to the Temple mount and several other interesting sites exist in this particular area of the Old City. It was a day for bar mitzvah’s to be taking place. They were happening near the city wall, just down from the the gate of entrance. Another was happening on the men’s side of the Western Wall. They were loud and very interesting to watch. This is a culture, religion, people who are deeply rooted in tradition and values. They are His beloved and chosen. I absolutely love this place.


Direction’s Please – Again….

Looking for shekel’s & the Via Dolorosa – I need to exchange dollars for some shekel’s. This proved more difficult than one would think. But, then again my blonde does sometime reach its roots… It truly, probably was the person looking for them. My journey of EXACTLY where & when I was suppose to be here this day to meet the people in each of the places that I was supposed to meet them and hear every single story that I was supposed to hear.

Jerusalem Day 1 - Western Wall 1 Help…again, please.

This kind lady who works a booth that loans shawls to those going to the wall for prayer helped me with a little info on where to find shekel’s & the Via Dolorosa. We visited a bit. She asked why I came back and was not a Jew. She shared why I should be a Jew and was worried that maybe I had Jerusalem Syndrome (yes it’s a real syndrome) if I loved it there that much, but wasn’t a Jew. She was sincere on both parts. I took her picture – reluctantly on her part, so I will not post it (well, maybe a little), but she helped me. I will pray that she one day will want to know about my Savior. I am very careful not to offend their belief while still stating mine, cautiously.

Jerusalem Day 1 - Western Wall 2

Ready to go!

 

There is a lot to do and see still, so I need to get moving. More to follow in Part 2!!! I pray that you are enjoying this journey with Israel me. I love sharing all of this. I hope it inspires you to be brave, travel more, or meet God where He’s waiting for you.

Livinin my Rhapsodyville Life,

Trina

I am also taking a group back.

Don’t put it off. Just do it…go with us!!!

Israel Registration Form April 2019

Israel Spring 2018 Post – Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4

Let’s Travel Together! Israel here we come!

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Let’ Travel Together

Airport Luggage wait

It’s been a minute…

Wednesday Word & Fearless Friday have been on a hiatus. BUT so has the rest of my “blog” life. Sometimes real life just rushes you from all sides. I have been totally consumed in real life issues. Let’s just say the summer of 2018 will never be forgotten. I will be posting more on it in detail in future featured life blogs.

Here’s the last 90 day’s

short, no detail list:

Flowers from the greenhouses

Gorgeous orchid – grown at C of O

Moved son into college

5 trips to Branson

1 Team National Convention

TN Summer 2018

Working hard or hardly working….

with 3 extended fun filled

Ft. Lauderdale, FL days.

Multiple Lake & Friend weekends

22nd Anniversary

Happy 22

22 & counting

One horrible 36 hours of my mom suffering before going to Glory.

Mom's Flower

Rose for Mom

Welch Summer 2018

Mom’s eternal going home

3 days of preparing an adequate tribute for the rock of our family before her resting physical body here. She is healed and living an eternal dream life now.

Living Trust……

Transitioning earthly belongings and adjusting to a new normal, LOL ( I miss picking up the phone, already).

What I do know

I have finally received the (numbers & dates to take a group to Israel with me next year. I cannot wait to share this wonderful country with you. I pray that you will have faith in me enough to go. This will be my 3rd (if not 4th, by then….may have to slip in one more visit before next April) time to go to Israel in the last 2 years.

Israel Nov. 2017- TW

Trina & friend (Susan snuck in a beautiful photo bomb, too!)

 Register and Make your down payment TODAY!

Israel Registration Form April 2019

God has placed a passion in my heart for His land and people. How can we teach, believe and want to share His word and never go walk on the dirt that is sacred and holy to Him? This little piece of just over 8,000 square miles (a few more historically) is where almost everything in the recorded scripture takes place. There is NO record that I have ever read where Jesus Christ ever traveled to any other country (except for when Herod pursued him as a toddler). So….God must REALLY love it there; to have spent what little time He was a human, to have saw fit to NEVER step one foot off of this hallowed ground.

Life Changing

To say it’s life changing to go to Israel is truly an understatement. I leave Jerusalem crying each time. It is where I believe God first breathed the breath of life into dirt and chose to make man. It is where Abraham was to sacrifice Issac. It is where my Savior and YOURS poured out His precious blood to give atonement for each human who wants eternal life. It is where the Holy Spirit first poured out His gifts to keep man moving forward toward the cross and eternal life until Christ’s return. This land is more than words….it is a living history. You will feel like you are walking through a time warp when you enter certain places. The foods you will eat, smells you will smell and sights you will see can transport you to a life that you have only ever read about.

Beautiful Gate

Eastern Gate

You will experience a varied set of emotions and I will guarantee you will never open a Bible and think the same EVER again…

ITINERARY

Day -1 Mon, April 8th – Travel Day

Day-2, Tues, April 9th  – Arrive Tel Aviv

Mediterranean at Netanya

Mediterranean Sea

Morning arrival.  Meet and greet at the airport.  Board bus and travel with your guide to the Port City of Jaffa on the Mediterranean for a short visit.  Travel along the way of the Sea of Netanya. Rest of the day at leisure to relax and stroll along the beach.  Welcome dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Netanya. (Ramada Netanya or similar)

Day-3, Wed, April 10th   – Sea of GalileeCaesarea, Israel

Breakfast.  Travel along the Mediterranean coast to Caesarea to explore the excavations of the ancient Roman port. Travel to the village life in Jesus Days Muhraqa, which commemorates the battle of Elijah on Mt. Carmel.  View the Jezreel Valley and visit Megiddo, the side where the final battle of Armageddon is to take place.  End the day at the home town of Jesus, Nazareth, to enjoy a visit at the reconstructed Nazareth Village and to the wedding church at Cana. Dinner and overnight at the Sea of Galilee.  (Ron Beach or similar)

Day-4, Thu, April 11th   – Golan Heights

Breakfast.  Start the day at Safed.  Time for lunch. Visit Tel Dan Nature Reserve.  Visit the Banias, the site of ancient Caesarea Philippi and the Banias Falls.   Nimrod’s Fortress in the Golan Heights area. If time permits, end the day with a view of the area from the Shalom Lookout, in the Southern Golan. Dinner and overnight at the Sea of Galilee.

Israel 2018 - Trina

Nimrod Fortress

Day 5, Friday, April 12th   – Sea of Galilee

Breakfast.  Enjoy a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee with music and worship.  Visit the ancient Boat Museum at Kibbutz Ginosar. Visit Capernaum to see the remains of Peter’s house and where Jesus chose to center his ministry.  Ascent the Mt. of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount (reserved meeting point). Stop at the 7 Springs on the shore of the Sea of Galilee by Tabgha, site of the miracle of the fish and loaves. Visit the newly excavated site of Magdala. End the day with a visit to the Yardenit baptism site. Dinner and overnight at the Sea of Galilee.

Jordan Baptize

Noah baptized in the Jordan

Day-6, Sat, April 13th   – Jordan Valley-Jerusalem

Bet She'an

Beit She’an, Israel

Breakfast.  Visit the excavations of the Roman city of Beit She’an.  Travel south along the Jordan Valley with an optional stop at Kaser El Yehud Baptism site and a view of Mt. Temptation at Jericho.  Ascend to Jerusalem via the Judean Wilderness (Wadi Kelt) like pilgrims have been doing for centuries. Shabbat Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.  (Dan Boutique or Panorama Hotel)

Jerusalem, Israel

Sun setting over Jerusalem

Day -7, Sun, April 14th  – Jerusalem

Temple Mount - Jerusalem

Temple Mount

Breakfast.  Start the morning with a visit to the Temple Mount (security permitting).  Stroll through the city alleys and colorful markets, as we walk along the “Way of the Cross” from St. Stephen’s Gate, the Pool of Bethesda to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.  Then we will visit the City of David and see the 3D movie and the Davidson Center to see the Southern Wall Steps. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem

Day – 8, Monday, April 15th  – Dead Sea

Dead Sea, Ein Gedi Region

Dead Sea

Breakfast.  Start the day with a visit to Genesis Land for a short camel ride and hospitality in Abraham’s Tent.  Then travel down to the Dead Sea, the lowest area in the world. Enjoy a short hike to David’s waterfall at Ein Gedi Oasis. 

Sunrise Dead Sea

Sunrise – Trina at the Dead Sea

Visit Qumran (with movie) where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered and shop for Dead Sea products.  Enjoy a dip in the salt mineral waters of the Dead Sea. After dinner at the hotel, we will visit the Western Wall and Western Tunnel. Overnight in Jerusalem.

Day-9, Tuesday, April 16th    – Jerusalem

Garden Tomb

THE GARDEN TOMB – JERUSALEM, ISRAEL NOVEMBER 2017

Tour and communion at the Garden Tomb.  Drive through Government Hill and view the Menorah at the Knesset, Friends of Zion Museum.  On to the Israel Museum to see the Model of the First Century Jerusalem and the Scroll of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are displayed.  Machane Yehuda Market in the afternoon. (Must sign up for the market). Dinner and Overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 10, Wednesday, April 17th –   Jerusalem

Ascent the Mt. of Olives.  Visit Dominus Flevit Church and walk down the Palm Sunday path to the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations for prayer in the Garden.  Continue to Mt. Zion to see the Upper Room and King David’s Tomb. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem

King David Statue

Noah next to statue of King David

Day 11, Thurs, April 18th     – Tel Aviv/Departure.

Begin the day at the Yad Vashein Holocaust Memorial and travel to the Valley of Elah, site of the Battle of David and Goliath and see the 911 Memorial. Farewell dinner.  In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Jaffa, Israel

Jaffa Port Mediterranean

April 19th –  Departure 00:30am.

Just do it!

I dare you to do this. There’s never a better time than the present – it is a gift and we never know when we will be required to give that gift away and NEVER get it back. Failed health, circumstances, money, children, jobs, yada-yada-yada – excuses are cheap / free; but they truly can cost you the most…. a life time of I wish I had’s.

Don’t forget to get registered TODAY!

Israel Registration Form April 2019

After traveling to Israel, I know that I was brought to this land to share the secrets that it holds with other children of the gospel. You need to come experience the things it holds for you and YOU can go share it with the world!!!!

Lean In and Lean on Him to make this trip of a life time with us!

Shalom & Rhaposdyville Livin,

Trina

Check out my previous post on my trip to Israel.

Day 4 – Israel – Redneck Rhapsody Travel Girl- Rhapsodyville Style

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Conquering the N. Galilee Region

Victory for the North Galilee Region!

Time to Move

On the Road again!

Bags are packed and I am going for a little detour as I wind my way towards Jerusalem. I went to visit the ancient tombs in Bet She’arim. A very important Jewish Rabbi – Yehuda Hanassi was buried here. He was the head of the Sanhedrin. He was buried long ago (220CE). Many Jews from all around the world have chosen to have their bodies sent here for burial, also.

Israel - Trina

Bet She’arim

Such beauty in Solitude

Israel - Trina

Tomb doors are massive.

These tombs were carved into the mountain side that are actually caves that have tombs in them. The catacombs hold many beautiful limestone sarcophagi. The huge stone and hinge doors hold more than their share of stories. Would love to know some of them.

 

Israel - Trina

I am FOR CERTAIN that I would NOT want to be in any of these after dark. Catacombs were quite dark in the broad daylight, especially when you wandered far enough back in them. I kept waiting for someone to jump out and scream… OR creep up behind me and tap me on the shoulder…..yep, you guessed it, I would SCREAM and probably need to change my shorts!!!!

Blessed with helpful souls

Israel - Trina

Nicest park lady ever! Spoke almost NO English…

Met a wonderful lady that helped me get my park pass ( that I would have already paid for if I’d bought it on my FIRST day….) If you are traveling Israel on your own and going to be in the National Parks & Reserves BUY a multi-park pass that will meet your needs. Yes, it will save you money if you plan on going to more than 3.

The things you can see in a cemetery…

As I went to leave, there were a couple of wedding parties that were arriving to have their pictures in the park. Yes, a little strange to see wedding pictures being made in a cemetery, but it was a beautiful location. Was interesting to see how their cars were adorned for the occasion compared to cars in America.

Israel - Trina

Who would have thunk it?

Now, my new nest for a few days

Israel - Trina

AirBnB – for $$$ off your first stay Airbnb.com/c/trinaw1880

This would be my 3rd of the 4 different AirBnB’s that I would be staying in. I was in Jerusalem for 5 night’s. My gracious host were Mark & Kim Weiss. They have a lovely home that was set up perfect for me. Although it wasn’t easy for my maps to get me there the first time, I did make it. It was in a fantastic location for having means to get around. One and half blocks from city buses. A few blocks from First Station (more about this in a sec). I had the downstairs at their place all to myself, so it made for a great place of peace to rest at the end of long days.

Israel - Trina

Yum!!!

I inquired about where to grab dinner and they said, “Go to First Station.” It wasn’t but about 2 blocks up and about 8 or so down. Love this place. A good variety of restaurants. All looked to have an excellent selection of food. There was a market, art gallery, small area of carnival type games, live performances which varied all the way from singers to music and dance. This became my go to spot to find what I would need the next few days. All the way from food to parking (more on that next post😜).

Other than spending 45 minutes driving in probably about a 5 mile radius, trying to actually get on the road I needed to be on, this day proved to be quite mild. Which wasn’t a bad thing…

Working on tour packages for Spring 2019! Let me know if you want more info! trina@redneckrhapsody.com

Make sure you are signed up for my emails so you can follow the rest of this trip. I will be posting in the future from our Fall 2017 tour of Israel. Catch up with Day 1, Day 2 & Day 3 – Israel 2018

Maybe it’s your time to “lean in & travel to Israel!”

Trina

Day 2 – Israel – Rhapsodyville

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Sunrise

Israel 2018

Rooftop Sunrise Korazim

I should say Shabbat Shalom – I woke up in Korazim / Corazim / Chorazim (yes, it is spelled all 3 ways) (pronounced – Korzeem – I say it wrong everytime🙄), really early. Time difference still catching my tailwinds, LOL. My little studio apartment that has a walk out onto the roof has an excellent view of the very north edge of the Sea of Galilee. You can see the Golan Heights to the east, too. I was hoping for some amazing sunrise pictures, but it was quite hazy. I gave it a go anyway. Had fun with trying to get it, not often I get to romp around on a rooftop ledge… Pictures weren’t what I hoped for but they weren’t awful either. It was a beautiful morning, just not the sunrise shots I was able to get in November.

Israel - 2018 - Trina

Sunrise shots

Israel - 2018 - Trina

Sunrise North

Yoga My Way

Did get a good rooftop yoga work out in before I ventured out for the day. Love doing yoga outside, this was new for me. Might have to do more of this.

Safed / Tzfat

Israel - 2018 - Trina

She made my day! Free parking & good directions.

I had decided to go to a place I had not previously visited. Safed or Tzfat – YES, same place, totally different spellings…. EVEN ON THE SIGNS, not just on the GPA… After I missed the first exit, I was completely guessing on the second one. Needless to say, it was just another small way that I was better off. It landed me on the old side of town, exactly where I wanted to be! I was concerned about parking, but ended up in a gravel parking lot which wasn’t marked. Luckily, a beautiful woman that lived in a house nearby was bring out her trash. She gave me permission to leave my car here @ no charge. She gave me directions to the part of town I was wanting to go. I happened to be only about a two block walk from there. (What I didn’t know at this time is how blessed I was… When I went to leave the town after reprogramming my GPS it took me out the way I was SUPPOSE to have come. It took me like 45 minutes to get through the new side of town and traffic. I would have missed most of the shops, as they would have been closed before I could get to them. Isn’t it funny how when we let go and let God, things sometimes turn out just as they should even when we believe we were doing it all wrong……..)

Friday = Shabbat

It was Friday, so there that means Shabbat. Shabbat is the Jews Sabbath. It is still observed by most everyone and everywhere in Israel. Which means between noon and two o’clock almost everything closes until sundown on Saturday. The lady of the house begins cooking early in the morning preparing the family’s meal, which can include extended family and friends. So, I was really glad I made it there by 10:00 am. I figured a couple of hours would be enough. Well, it was, but I could have spent an entire day in this charming ancient city.

Israel - 2018 - Trina

This city in one of the four element cities in ancient Jewish tradition. Safed is the city of wind. – This was told to me by one of the locals. Wikapedia – Since the 16th century, Safed has been considered one of Judaism‘s Four Holy Cities, along with Jerusalem, Hebron and Tiberias; since that time, the city has remained a center of Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism.

Everywhere I turned there were neat art galleries, handmade items, specialty shops, and local made delights. Cheese shop, jewelry, wineries, fresh food made to order right in front of you. Artist of all types.

Israel - 2018 - Trina

Specialized Tallit’s

OK, forget a day – I literally could have spent a week in just this place and been happy. Probably was a really good thing that they were closing early, because I didn’t make it to near all of them. The good Lord knew I didn’t have all the money that I wanted to spend. I made Him a deal about this trip. If I was taking it for the learning experience and seeking Him, that I would NOT spend, except on necessities. Like FOOD….

Israel - 2018 - Trina

Brunch in Safed – Yemen style. Two crazy, fun boys who were a pleasure to watch and have cook for me!

Well, it was totally necessary that I try at least one new experience that I have never had before. I bought 1 bottle of Ancient Safed Winery – Cabernet Sauvignon. I now have at least one new like!😍  I savored it, took me a week to drink the whole bottle. I didn’t bring the bottle back, but managed to get the label off and am trying to decide how I want to preserve it.

To put it mildly I 💗 this place! I could actually live in this town. BUT… I am finding out that there are many cities that I could absolutely live in Israel. The more that I visit, the more that get added to my list.

I headed back to my temporary home base mid afternoon. The sky’s were clear, I put tunes on and just enjoyed the drive. Decided I would camp out for some rays on the rooftop when I arrived.

Israel- 2018- Trina

Burger & fries

Thought I might actually get a real meal for dinner, since it had been about 3 days since I had meat. Vered HaGalil was referred to me from a local. It did not let me down. They had amazing looking steaks, but I opted for the all American burger & fries. It was less than 5 minutes from where I was staying.

 

Israel- 2018- Trina

Vered HaGalil – Restaurant

 

 

 

If you see horses in any of the pictures of my stay here, it was their’s. Their ranch backed up to the house I was in, so I was privileged enough to watch them eat & play from the rooftop view (pictured above).

 

 

Shabbat Shalom

After that meal I had no desire to just sleep on it. It was still light, so I thought I would go for a walk and get a few more pictures. This place is truly beautiful. I wonder how this community would have fared if they had turned from their ways when Christ tried to teach them about the Kingdom of heaven….

Israel - 2018 - Trina

“LOTS” of lantana – luv!

Israel - 2018 - Trina

Yahweh’s handy work

Israel - 2018 - Trina

Yahweh’s color pallet amazes me…

This country truly rules my heart and owns my soul….. Shabbat Shalom

Leaning in as much as possible…. it is wear I wish to be,

Trina

Fearless Friday – 2018 Graduate

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Noah

SR pic – 2018 Photo by Jacob DeNomie

Sonsational 2018 Graduate

Noah

Now & Then

Sonsational – Noah Welch

I cannot begin to tell you what these last 18 years have been like! I have enjoyed this boy / young man to the utmost. I am so incredibly proud of the all that he has done. He graduated with honors and extra bling for achieving four years in the engineering program, as well as, other school programs. He presented Mr. Daughety with a Life Impact award, which melted his momma’s heart.

Line 89

Since Amber graduated in 2005, there has been a tradition of the parents, friends and other schools lining the main highway to take the seniors to Verizon Arena the morning of graduation for practice. So we made our signs and took our place along the line and waited on ALL 15 buses loaded with seniors…693 were in the program to receive their diplomas.

Sonsational – Ready, Set…GO

Noah - 2018

HOTTIE!!!!

He is so handsome. Yes, I am 1000% prejudice. Whoever the girl is that actually share’s his heart with his momma one day sure will be a lucky, blessed young woman. She will be getting the whole package – smart, sensitive, caring, Christian, conservative, funny and….handsome (oops, I already said that)!!!!

Emotional Rollercoaster

Noah - 2018

LOVE…

I have laughed / cried / sniffled / giggled / teared up more than I can count – but thank goodness no ugly crying! I was really afraid that, that was going to show up, but I think I’m storing that one up for the day I will leave him at the dorm and drive away (makes me tear up just thinking about that one).

The 2 ½ hour ceremony

Yep, it takes that long to graduate 693 students! Two salutatorians, one valedictorian…throw in a pledge, anthem, couple of prayers, and alma mater….just under TWO and a HALF hours. W’s are always close to last…. So no leaving early (wouldn’t do it even if his last name started with an A)! Definitely proud of this boy and this moment for him to shine, all of these students deserve the time they’ve worked for on this night.

Food PLEASE!

Afterwards we hit Old Chicago with about 5 grads and plenty of friends and family in tow. They did a great job juggling all the different arrivals and multiple separate tickets. Full tummies, happy peeps, tired parents. Took a minute to unwind from the emotions of the day, I think the clock said 2am when I turned off the TV.

4 parties in a row

10:45 am Party #1 – Birthday for a busy 2 year old. Our great nephew is a big ball of fun! Thankful to visit with some of our extended out of town crew, my brother and his family.

#2  – Graduation party for Isiah – Looonnnngggg time friend of Noah’s. So very proud of this young man and all of his accomplishments. I can’t wait to see what all he does in the next few years.

#3 – Graduation party for Sierra – We go to church with Miss Sierra. She is a beautiful young lady with a bright future at the U of A. She is a delight and so stinking smart.

#4 – Graduation party for Adam – Adam is one of Noah’s best bud’s for the past few years. He is going the route of reserves then heading back for his education starting spring semester. He will definitely be an asset for our country to have him serving. His journey won’t be easy and we will keep him in our prayers. But, as far as that goes I will keep all of these children in my prayers.

Last show of honor for the graduates

Noah - 2018

Youth Grads @ the Bridge Church in Cabot

Our church recognized all of our seniors with our youth pastor presenting them with a book. VIP: How to Influence with Vision, Integrity, and Purpose by O. S. Hawkins . I hope they all invest the time in themselves and actually read it. Motivational reading can change a life forever!!! And your level of positive motivational reading is followed by the level of income, usually. The more you deposit into your own bank of self worth, you add value to your real estate investment that resides between your to ears and exists as gray matter. The more valuable you are the more you are paid. $$$$ follows the worth of self! My home church where we started Noah off at in life also recognized him with a beautiful Bible. He’s a lucky young man, who is loved by many people.

Downhill slide

We invited some friends over for an afternoon of chill time. Their daughter was the Valedictorian of CHS Class of 2018. Their plate has been a lot more full than ours with all the college visit and applications that they worked on, so we all need some real R&R!

Thank you to all who have had kind words, sent cards, prayed, hauled, helped, and endured just this post or any of the past 18 years that have went into the making of this moment. I would be remiss to not mention the teachers and faculty of Cabot Public Schools their days are long and sometimes very difficult. I have watched them pray, feed, and even unfortunately fight with, as well as, for these young people. They just want to get them to where we arrived at this weekend…Graduated! Lord bless them and keep them protected and give them many, many more years!

Day 1 – Israel – Rhapsodyville

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Israel 2018 - Trina

Zippori / Tzipori NP

14 Days / Israel – Makes my Heart BEAT!

I know I haven’t even blogged about my first trip to Israel, but with just finishing my second one, and it being a 14 day stint, I feel that I want to share this piece of rhapsodyville while it’s fresh. This trip just developed quickly and with being a “travel” blogger….I needed to do some REAL travel, so I pulled the trigger (key strokes -reserved rooms, car & plane tickets) and hit the tarmac. This was my first trip out of the country by myself. I rented a car, stayed AirBnB’s, and mapped out where I would visit, what I would see & do all by myself (well, I must give credit to a friend who is a guide and lives in Israel: Harrison – thank you for all your advice and tips – *especially highway signs, speed limits and such*).

Day 1

Israel - 2018 TrinaMy first day started in Ra’Annana. It is located just outside of Tel Aviv. From there I went north. The drive was awesome. Beautiful scenery, windows down, tunes jamming (yes, I carried my own speaker and used my Itunes), the wonderful smell of spring made me feel alive. I am a fan of The Watchman CUFI – TBN. Some of the places I chose to visit were places with history that may have been featured on that program. Others I returned to after my first visit, friend’s suggestions or just the Lord leading me. I had no time clock, this is what made this trip so amazing. I could leave as quick as I arrived or stay along as it was open.

 

National Park #1Nature and Parks Authority

Zippori National Park**  or Tzipori (yep, yet another BIG difference NAMES of the CITIES can and OFTEN do change…js) was on the agenda for the day. It is on a hill in the western Lower Galilee region. It has the remains of a magnificent city and is still a current archaeology dig site with new things being discovered all the time.

It includes ancient streets, public buildings, dwellings, a theater, bathhouses, churches, a synagogue, central market all mainly dating to Roman and Byzantine period. There are beautiful mosaics contained in some of the main structures.

 

The land surrounding it was beautiful farms; produce and cattle. The day became quite warm quickly. It appeared that I was going to have warm weather for the entirety of my trip. I love warm, so no worries!

Rhapsodyville – 2nd home for a 4 day stay

After wrapping things up there I headed to the Upper Galilee region to Korazim. This would be home for the next few days. I arrived mid afternoon. Upon unloading my last bag, the first drop of rain splattered.

Israel, much like Arkansas can have some serious afternoon “heat” storms. The shutters of the room I was in almost blew off. They had to be zip tied. Yep, zip ties, much like duct tape and super glue they ALL can make MANY problems go away and are the answer to SO MANY issues!

Israel - 2018 Trina

Glad I wasn’t out in it! Photo creds to Harrison

*There will be a post dedicated solely to the details of “IF YOU RENT A CAR IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY aka Israel” maps, roads – streets, laws, ect…. YEP, it was part of what made my trip all that it was!*

**I did not figure out until after I paid for my entrance at the 4th national park that you can get a two week pass for multiple parks for a discount price. If you have a friend with an address that will receive your card for you, there’s a 1 year pass, but it has to be mailed to an Israel address. I have a card on it’s way and am now friends with a park employee who liked me enough and is sending it to me! Blessed. God sent me people who took care of me everywhere I went. He loves on me WAY more than I deserve.

Israel 2018 - Trina

Zippori NP

Rhapsodyville to come – NEXT PLEASE…

Now, I have to figure out where I’m going next. How quick can I make it happen and I’m not sure that it won’t be traveling from Israel. After my second time around, my hope was to get it out of my system instead I feel that it just became rooted deeper into my veins. I am so in love with Israel. I cried as I left Jerusalem and for the next four days just thinking about leaving. For those that know me, NOT a CRIER!!! Times when I should cry, like funerals, I can’t – start talking about this place and I tear up. FOR the LOVE, it must be God, cause I don’t weep…. There are truly no words that can adequately describe just how or what I feel there. It oozes history and faith. Both of which I love and garner a special relationship with. I feel so drawn that I may have an address change….