Full Throttle

Wow...not only did the summer fly by, but its back to the fast pace lifestyle of Dani adjusting back to work, the kids in school, and then, of course, all of the extracurricular activities to attempt to make. Summer was a nice break, but you can't help becoming a little lazy and definitely spoiled. I really have no idea how Danielle is able to balance so much and survive on such little time for herself. Between making sure the day-to-day mandatory duties are fulfilled such as getting the kids up for school, organizing their activities, and then juggling her schedule continues to amaze, but inspire me to help when I am able.
If it wasn't for our amazing family and friends, I truly don't know what we would do. Danielle's godsister, Shannon, and her husband, Donnie, are always such generous friends making sure Lexi gets to dance and anything else we ever need. Their family is such an inspiration to us because they have such incredible obstacles that life has thrown at them and they continue to not only persevere, but to help out, others, when able. Our gratitude for them extends beyond a simple thanks and I hope we can return the favors someday.
I also wanted to mention a wonderful event that I participated in on Monday, August 31st. It was an amazing charity golf tournament sponsored by Linda Armstrong Kelly and her husband Ed along with Steven and Lee Nagel at the Gleneagles Country Club in Plano(Swing Fore!Yellow). But as amazing as the event was, even more amazing was the fact that, Chris Glass, my Lambda Chi Big Brother and good friend sponsored the event in honor of The Alex Laynor Foundation. Beyond the humbling gesture, I was able to enjoy an incredible afternoon with Chris, Randy Garza, and Brett Stallard...all CHOPS and great men. I had no business being on that course or probably any course for that matter, but it was an honor and privilege to play and visit with such a great group of guys...I had such an wonderful time. Meeting Steven Nagel and others at the event was just icing on the cake. Again, I can't thank you enough for such a thoughtful and generous gesture, Chris, and yes I do have your putting wedge....

We head to Massachusetts this week to visit my mother's side of the family and we are so excited that this trip is finally going to happen. Dani has never been to the New England Area and I know that she is especially excited.
So far I am doing pretty good...chemo is...well...Chemo, I don't know what else to say. I did enjoy sharing my story with the Rowlett Chamber of Commerce and then spoke with a small group for a breakfast about my story to support Relay for Life in Rowlett. It still amazes me that people continue to respond with such support and words of encouragement...
Its late and I have been probably rambling on as usual, but I wanted to leave you with a great lesson that we discussed in our Sunday School Class at Church Sunday led by Todd Shipley, who always has such insightful wisdom...

Does God accept good deeds as absolution from your sins or do you just ask God for forgiveness and is that enough?
I feel that it is a combination of both, but determining to what extent or sacrifice is the difficult part.

Stay Healthy and Enjoy God's Glory,
Alex