Their journey to Lakewood is a tale of two cities. Michael Swail, a native Austinite, found his passion for finance early on. After earning his MBA from Rice University, he spent a decade in investment banking before co-founding Alive and Well, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. 

Elizabeth (Liz) Swail started her Texas story being raised in Fort Worth to Houston where she became a Houston Rockets Power Dancer and Houston Texan Cheerleader. While living her dream of dancing, she also completed her PPA program at the University of Houston, which led to her seven years in the investment banking sector before furthering her education by earning a Masters Degree from the University of Texas. Today she devotes her time to family and the thriving health and wellness business with Michael. 

But it's not just business for the Swail Family. Sundays are sacred in their household. From church to outdoor adventures, cooking together to unplugging from devices, Sundays are a cherished time for bonding. Speaking of family time, traveling together is another important aspect for the Swails. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, holds a special place in their hearts, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life that they spend an extended amount of time there together every year. 

Their days are filled with activity, as lacrosse (all but Charlotte), track, soccer, and gymnastics become part of their routine. Balancing sports with academics, their children excel both on and off the field. 

Mary Madison (17) is the queen of clubs, driven by her desire to help others she loves being involved and giving back to her school and her community. Tennyson (15) is setting her sights on playing lacrosse at the collegiate level, so much of her free time is spent becoming a stronger and more strategic player on the field. Ella (8) balances her love for soccer with a passion for art and playing Chess. The youngest, Charlotte (4), isn't sold on a sport yet, but has fallen in love with dance and gymnastics, maybe to follow in her mother's footsteps as a future dancer or cheerleader!  

And while juggling the demands of family time and entrepreneurship, Liz finds time to give back. From LECPTA to hosting health and wellness events, she's committed to making a difference in the community. "Amidst the excitement and demands of launching two new Alive and Well locations this year, I've been cautious about overcommitting, aiming to ensure I can contribute meaningfully without spreading myself too thin. However, I'm looking forward to 2024 with optimism—it's going to be my year to dive back in and make a more significant impact!"

The Swail Family looks forward to deepening their roots and contributing even more in the years to come. From Garden Cafe dinners to summer concerts at the Arboretum, they embrace all that Lakewood has to offer. Three pieces of advice the Swails would give to their neighbors are: Explore The Outdoors, Get Involved, and Support Local Businesses! Their love for community, family, and adventure shines through in every aspect of their Lakewood journey.