The Family that Prays (and Runs) Together. . .

I've challenged everyone in my extended family that is willing and able to run to complete a half marathon in August. It's a risky venture with responses ranging from, and I quote, "HELL no" to "When do we start training?" I just think it would be really powerful to have as many McNeels as possible set a goal and accomplish it together and for those not running to cheer us on. So, yesterday, James and I went on our first Saturday run up the Provo Canyon. Let me just say this about our run--adversity makes us stronger. It was cold, windy, and we ran a bit further than anticipated. The good news is that it felt great to accomplish 7 miles together--like the first step of many (quite literally) to finishing a long race.

Watch for McNeel Marathon updates over the coming weeks. If you're interested in joining us, we're running the Hobble Creek Half on Saturday, August 21st. The more the merrier.

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday, COUSIN AUBRI. LOVE YOu!!!

You've Had a Birthday. . .

Cousin Aubri has a blog. Let's all shout hooray! Oh, my gosh--I sound like I'm in primary. . .scary!
Her photographer.

Big Day for Zachie

Happy Birthday wishes to Cousin Zachie (pictured in center). . . .Love ya!

Big B-Day Wishes

Happy Birthday Wishes to Stephanie! Hope it's a great one, little cousin. You're such a doll. Love ya!

Meet Annabelle

I think this little darling might be cute enough to encourage a certain sister and brother-in-law of mine to have babies.

This is Miss Annabelle (our 2nd cousin) whose darlingness is completely indescribable.

Winter Denial

This is my cousin Charles (a.k.a. Chuck) who unknowingly illustrates my new winter philosophy. I've decided not to let the snow and cold get me down. I'm going to go about my everyday life and pretend it's summer--flip flops? perhaps. running? definitely. ice cream? hopefully. training wheels? likely.

WFB Welcomes Seth

A big Where Flowers Bloom welcome to the newest family addition. Seth was born on Monday weighing in at 8lb 10oz. He is a darling baby bear. Here's Seth with his proud dad.Malachi & Seth are sure to be friends. Grandma and grandpa are taking there turn at babysitting. They're quite a handful. Seth is so happy to be here. He can't wait for all the adventures associated with being one of the cub bears. . .he told me so.

Look at us talking. He really likes me a lot & I'm sure we're going to have lots of fun together. I'm going to give him candy and let him jump on the couch, and teach him how to say HOT DOG. Oh, I love this little baby. Congrats to Brandon & Lori--what great parents they'll be. Oh, and what about the new grandparents. Little Seth is so lucky!