a good book and a few things

I have really enjoyed reading Brooke McGlothlin's new ebook, How to Control Your Emotions So they don't control you. As a mom, I have blown it before... I've been angry and frustrated with my children and have acted out from that emotionally negative place.  I have let my emotions control me instead of the other way around. I think it is easy to feel like you're alone and to feel like a failure in those moments. In her book, Brooke shares her own personal struggles with her emotions and reminds us that we are not alone, but actually in a pretty common battle. She uses Biblical truth to point us toward God and toward his grace and power that can help us as we submit our emotions to him. 

I highly encourage you to read this.  It's only five chapters and is available for $3.99 right now.   

This song. 

Jessi from Naptime Diaries created this free printable  from the song, Ocean. A good reminder to have hanging on my wall.

We went on our first family vacation as  five last week.  We had a great time at the beach.  Jonathan wasn't so sure of the ocean at first, but by the end of the long weekend he was riding the waves like a pro (on Dad's back)!

Love
Tracy

the birthday boy

This sweet boy is 4 today. Happy birthday, Jonathan! We love you! 

everyday prayers

“Because of you, terror is terrified. Indeed, because of you, one day there will be no terror or tears. There will be no more brokenness or barrenness, no more heartaches or even heartburn, no more human trafficking or even human tooth decay, no more war or even aggravation, no more evil or even envy, no more poverty or even pouting, and no more “not yet,” “not enough,” or “not now.”

Our labors in you, King Jesus, are not in vain. Because of you we can, and must, live as peacemakers, sowing the peace of the gospel of the kingdom, with the absolute assurance that a harvest of righteousness is being raised and will be reaped.

We praise you that your name is Redeemer, Reconciler, and Restorer. We cry out loud, “Maranatha!” Come, Lord Jesus, come! Until that day, give us all the mercy, grace, and peace we need for this day. We pray with joy and hope. Amen.”

- Scotty Smith, Everyday  Prayers