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Bylund Family Calendar

2011-10-13T13:06:00.002-06:00

I've put together a calendar with some important family events.
It's a google calendar, so if you have a gmail account you can add it to your existing calendars by pressing the '+ Google Calendar' button at the bottom of the calendar here. Once added to your email account, you can synch all the birthdays and other important family events right to your smartphone.
If you want to be able to add events, send me an email and I give you the permission: cmikeb1@gmail.com.
*UPDATE* I've added the email addresses of everybody who contributes to this blog with the permissions to add/edit/view and also grant permissions to others.

2011-10-05T14:21:00.000-06:00

I just love the Fall ... the cool air, the garden harvest, snuggling up in warm clothes and blankets when it's cold outside, cooking comfort foods again like soup etc., leaves turning colors, General Conference and the Holidays just around the corner !!! What's not to love? Summer sure went by fast. Here are some highlights ...
* Mike's move to Tempe, AZ after graduating from USU. (Then, Mike moving to Scottsdale, AZ just a few months later cuz his roommate moved back to Utah. Surprise! But all is well and Mike is enjoying his new focus of study. NEW ADDRESS: C Mike Bylund    11350 East Sahuaro Drive #328     Scottsdale, AZ     85259.)
   * Finally seeing the last snowstorm and reaching summer-like temperatures by the end of June!
   * Watching the yard green up and getting a garden in.
   * Having Jeff, Tammy, Eli and Meg come for a visit...celebrating Eli's 4th birthday and making his birthday cake together, spending time making memories and getting to know Meg well enough that she wasn't afraid to be with us and going to Lagoon together. We made some very good memories that will last forever ! (Please come again.)

   * Watching the garden grow ... being able to sit out back in the evenings in a comfy chair in the shade of our trees and read a good book. Enjoying our beautiful yard.
   * Listening to Becky speak in Sacrament meeting ... watching Becky called, sustained and acting as the Young Single Adult Ward Relief Society President (just a few weeks after she spoke).
   * Throwing a Wedding Shower for Becky's bestest friend, Kelly McCashland and then attending her wedding where Becky was a beautiful Bride's Maid.
   * Attending various ward and neighborhood get togethers and weddings.
   * Surviving yet another USANA National Convention week here in SLC -- all went well and boosted confidence in associates worried about the big upper management walk out. USANA rules !!!
   * Little ELLA REBECCA SLOAT 's arrival on August 31, 2011 !!!
   * My trip to Virginia where I met little Ella, got re-aquainted with Kason and Harley and enjoyed being with Anne and Reed again in their lovely home. Congratulations on a very sweet addition to the family ... it didn't take long to love her (I miss you all).

   * Returning home to my husband, mother and daughter who really seemed to miss me.

And that brings us back to where I started ... I do love Fall ! I'm also looking forward to the Holidays just around the corner (starting with Halloween). We're very much looking forward to seeing you all very soon. Take care of yourselves ... until we meet again. L U

It's Been A Long, Long Time!

2011-05-18T14:55:00.000-06:00

Sorry I haven't been giving this blog much attention. As you know, I have another Blog (pystothew.blogspot.com) that I started with my new church calling as the Relief Society Personal Preparedness Person. It turned out to be quite a lot of work to get up and running but it seems to be going well now. So, it is time to get back to my family.....much has occurred since last I wrote.
Jeff and Tammy are now a family of 4 with the addition of little Meg. It was such a joy for Becky and I to meet Meg when Jeff and his family came up to Anne's in VA to spend a few days with us. She is soooooo sweet. And it was awesome to get reaquainted with Eli and visit with Jeff and Tammy too. This summer will be a summer of travel for the Jeff Bylunds...Jeff will spend a week in The Bay Area of CA (our old stomping grounds) starting May 21st where he will have the chance to learn research methods from the professionals at Stanford U. He also plans a trip up into our old neighborhood to see what (and who)he can see! Then in early June, the whole family will pack up and head out to Utah for a reunion with grandparents, aunts, uncles and various excited cousins. Sounds like a summer of fun and excitement. See you soon!
Anne and Reed have some very exciting months ahead this summer.....in addition to waiting for their little girl Ella to be born, they will be purchasing a house and possibly a mini van with which to transport their soon-to-be family of 5. The owners of the home they are in have decided to sell! They have realized that even if they do come back to the US from Japan, they probably won't return to VA, so...Anne and Reed have decided to stay put and take on ownership responsibilities. Having visited them multiple times, I can say that they do live in a very nice home in a beautiful area. Congratulations on your new home and your little girl (due to arrive September 7th)!
Mike has successfully graduated from USU with his Bachelor's degree in Computer Science! We are so excited for him and enjoyed sharing his graduation day, Aggie ice cream and time with Grandma & Grandpa Bylund in Logan. We then brought him home with us and packed him up for his big move to AZ. He now resides in a lovely condominium with his friend from High School, Kevin. (New Address: 1720 E Broadway #3133 Tempe, AZ 85282 Old Phone #: 801 634-4744) Kevin is a pharmicist for CVS Drug Stores and will soon be living the high life of a fully employed bachelor. Mike on the other hand will continue living the poverty laden life of a student with 3 jobs for the summer. Mike has reported to us that Tempe is sunny, warm and beautiful in its own way - very few trees. He has already scoped out some biking trails, been swimming and mapped out a running route. Go Mike! Congratulations and best wishes on getting your Masters at ASU.
Becky has finished classes at UVU for the summer and along with that no longer has to commute every day. YEAH! She also has 3 jobs for the summer... she continues to work daily at Data Image, weekends at DownEast Outfitters and now teaches dance classes at a preschool several hours a week. She loves this new opportunity but wonders if you have any advice on how to control unruly 2-3 year olds? She also continues to support Andy as he serves his mission in CA. He is growing and having great missionary expereinces there and Becky feels that they are growing even closer together as he shares his mission with her. Becky continues to attend a Young Adult Singles ward and serves as an FHE Mom. She is being persued by several boys (including the Stake President's son) but she always insists..."they are just friends." Hang in there Becky!
Grandma has had a rough week. Somehow she injured her hip and inflamation set in to the joint causing lots of pain. We finally took her to Dr. Boud. he gave her a cortisone shot and she should be feeling better in the next day or two. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers.
Dad and I are finally both home (most days) at the same time after 2 months of traveling afar. It is nice to be back into a routine together. We especially enjoy being here at the crossroads where we get to hear from and ocassionally see you all and share in your lives whenever we can. We look forward to seeing Jeff & Tammy in June, Anne and her family when little Ella arrives and maybe we'll even sneek a trip to AZ in there somewhere (most probably in the winter). We love you all and are so grateful for all the blessings we see you receive in your lives. We know it is because of your goodness and the choices you make and we are very pleased. Keep up the good work! LU

File Server

2010-07-12T23:07:00.002-06:00

The file server is up and running! For those that are interested in using it here are the instructions:

...and here...

If you want to change your password we can work something out.

Let me know if you have any quesions.

Fish!

2010-05-08T20:22:00.003-06:00

Isn't Kason such a good swimmer? Look at those feet go! He even rolled and went completely under when we first put him in the water in his new floaty, but he didn't let that stop him and now look at the kid. Dad I thought you would be so proud!

2009-12-08T21:10:00.009-07:00

Welcome December!!! Once this month begins I'm sure we all feel like it just doesn't stop until sometime in January. It is a good busy though and we always miss it when it is over. I hope in the middle of it all, you will take an opportunity to remember your Savior, Jesus Christ. I can only just begin to recognize all the blessings that have come to us this year and more are yet to come in this coming new year. Top on our list of blessings is each of you and the awesome choices you make each day. You are good people and we are proud of you. It is a pleasure to visit with and (when possible) spend time with you. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Speaking of spending time with you ... our trip to TN was amazing. Tennesse is beautiful and Nashville has no shortage of fun things to see and do (Jeff, Tammy and Eli being our favorite Nashville attraction). It was so fun to celebrate Halloween with them and read "The Spooky Old Tree" with Eli over and over and over... (and yes, Anne, we read "The Pale Green Pants" a time or two as well). Jeff grilled for us...yummmm! We got to see where Jeff works and goes to school. We visited all the places we hear tell of when we Skype the TN Bylunds (Cheekwood, The Nature Center, Murfreesboro, The Grand Old Opry Hotel, Vanderbilt, the Loveless Cafe, the Nashville Temple,etc.). And we loved learning more about how and where you live. Thanks so much for welcoming us into your home (Tammy even insisted we sleep in her bed; now that's southern hospitality) - we had a great time.

Well, this week is finals week for our College students and the Holidays are just around the corner. It sure was fun having Mike and Becky home for Thanksgiving and will be equally as fun to have them home for Christmas along with Jeff, Tammy and Eli. Everyone stay safe and well - we love you. ...XOMOM&DADXO...

2009-10-07T15:28:00.006-06:00

Hello Family! Thanks to all who have taken time to contribute to this site this summer. Can you believe it is October 2009 already? I think I am in time shock. It goes by so quickly...
Becky and Mike returned to Utah State all too soon from a wonderful summer at home. We enjoyed having them home so much that the house feels especially empty now they are gone. Both are doing very well and seem very happy back in freezing cold Logan. I'll let them fill you in on details.
Our congrtas to Mike, Tammy and Jeff for successfully running half marathons in the last several weeks. I am so grateful you have all followed the example of your Dad in being physically active and fit. I know your quality of life will be better for it and so will your kid's as they learn from you. Way to go!
Dad and I loved visiting Anne and her family in VA. What a beautiful home and neighborhood they live in. Anne seemed to be over the worst of her morning sickness and was able to show us around to all kinds of great sites and local faire -- Jamestown, Yorktown, the Zoo, the Beach, Shopping, Fried Chicken (Yummmmm), the Norfolk navel base, Cotton & Tobacco (growing right alongside the road) and Peanuts. But the most spectacular part of the whole trip was being with Anne, Reed and Kason. We love you and think that Kason is the luckiest boy on Earth to have such great parents. Of course he is pretty amazing too. Thanks for making our stay just wonderful.
Now, we look forward to visiting Jeff and his family for Halloween. It means so much to us to be able to visit and get a clear feel for your homes and the places you live. It is also wonderful to catch up with our grandsons and see how much they have grown and learned. Hopefully, then when we Skype we won't just be disembodied images on a screen. We'll be Nanna and Grandpa who love being with you and sharing in your lives.
Well, time continues to move too fast. I have to go. But, take care and know we love each one of you and appreciate all you do to bless our lives. ...XOMOM&DADXO...

How much can Eli do in literally 2 minutes?

2009-09-15T13:14:00.007-06:00

Half Marathon

2009-09-09T15:41:00.002-06:00

I wasn't sure if I was going to go through with it, but I was able to convince my roommate to do it with me and I finished the Top of Utah Half Marathon. It was a blast, the course was really pretty and I even got a sweet shirt. These are my official results:
256th isn't great, but they had over 2000 people running so I feel I could have done much worse :) I am happy just to have finished.
Good luck Jeff and Tammy on yours coming up!

My car and such.

2009-08-03T20:30:00.004-06:00

Hey everbody,
At the beginning of the summer I got this sweet new ride and have loved it since.
It's been a fun summer with my new car, being close to my old friends and being here at home to enjoy family and moms sweet cooking. But it's also a little monotonous being back at Red Robin and doing the same thing I did last summer. So, I'm counting down the days till school starts, 3 WEEKS!!
I finally finished the website I had been planning on doing the last couple years, check it out:
www.mtbLogan.com
I hope all the fam is doing well and enjoying their summer!
-Mike

1/2 Marathon

2009-07-09T10:27:00.002-06:00

Jeff and I are thinking of running a 1/2 marathon that will be on October 3rd. We know that some of you have done this before. What are some good tips? I will be recovered from my DNC in 2 weeks, so we will only have 10 weeks to train. Any ideas? By the way, if you would like to do it with us, you are more than welcome to join. If you register by August 1st, it is $15 cheaper (even though I think it is kind of ridiculous to have to pay to run anyway.) :)

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!

2009-06-21T20:13:00.002-06:00

Thanks Dad for all that you do! You have always supported me in getting an education and doing what I love. Thanks for always providing for our family and being a worthy priesthood holder. I remember when I was little how you were always doing funny things to make us kids laugh and have fun. You are a great guy and a wonderful father!
Love,
Becky

Happy Father's Day!!

2009-06-21T19:59:00.002-06:00

Hey day, I wish you the happiest of days. Thanks you for all the time you have put in to being such I good Dad over all the years. Countless things you have taught me will always stick with me, whether it's the value of hard work or the importance of starting every talk with a good joke.
I look forward to the many more lessons I will learn, I truly do come from good stock :)
-Mike

For My Dad

2009-06-21T19:13:00.002-06:00

Happy father's Day Dad. Thank you for sharing with me your love of the out doors. I love our camping and hiking adventures and hope to one day share some of those same things with my family. I am so excited to be acquiring a garden at our new house (even for the weeding!) and whenever I get excited about it I think of you. I also fondly remember trips to the beach and even our car rides down and listening to you recite the "Black Water Hatty" and singing the "In 1814 I took a little trip..." song. I am grateful for your example of hard work and enthusiasm for hobbies and recreation I have so many experiences and good memories because of it. I look forward to sharing you with my kids! I love you dad!

Love, Anne

A Father's Day Post

2009-06-21T14:24:00.002-06:00

As prompted by an especially thoughtful sibling I am making this Father's Day post to share a memory or two that I fondly recall when I think of Dad. Of course what immediately comes to mind are all the times we shared outdoors while camping, walking, hiking, biking, swimming, scouting, soccer playing, Wiffle ball hitting, river conoeing/rafting, and so on. Thankfully (having a father who was so involved in my life) I have many memories to choose from.

The first memory that I would like to share is one of going camping/hiking in the Sierra Nevada mountains. I'm not sure how old I was but I remember we were living in CA at the time. The trip started out with a visit to Dad's friend Jim Larsen, who happened to be living in or near the mountains at the time. We then proceeded to head further in and make camp. Now the reason that this memory sticks out to me is because this was the first time I remember going on a long camping trip one-on-one together. He helped me to really appreciate the beauty of nature and learn how sharing a hobby can strengthen family relationships.

The other memory I would like to share is of countless father and son campouts we attended together. It was so fun to pack up a tin foil dinner made with kilbassa, potatos, carrots and onions and go camping together. I was so proud to have a dad that would come with me, it was something I always looked forward to.

Dad, thanks for making such a positive difference in my life. I wouldn't be where I am today without it.

Happy Father's day!

Love,

Jeff

Not to Be Left Out

2009-06-18T10:35:00.005-06:00

The new shades ended up being too short, so I tacked on these ruffles then put a valance across the tops. I kind of like it better than just plain.

Sorry this is sideways - if you can't tell, this is the back door. We now hope to tile behind the stove with some kind of Navy Blue pattern to match these curtains. I'll keep you posted.

Thanks to everyone who has taken time to sign in and catch us up on this blog and your own individual blogs are just amazing. It is such a treat to see you and your families growing and making awesome memories together. We love each and every one of you and are so grateful for the Internet so we can keep in touch. Now, I figure I better not be left out so here I am today ...

Dad left this morning for the Parkway 2nd Ward's 2009 Youth conference! Right now I suppose he is hiking up Timp. He took his camera so we'll post some pics when he gets done this week. Tonight, we get to enjoy listening to Brother and Sister Pinegar (he is a former MTC and England South Mission President and his wife was the General Primary President and a Counselor in the general YW Presidency). Cool, huh? Tomorrow, they have a man coming to speak who is a Quadriplegic and has been voted one of the 10 most inspirational people in America by the Washington Post. Not bad for a little ward on the West side of the valley. We'll give you a full report next time we Skype.

Grandma seems to be doing better. After all those tests, it turns out she has a rather large stomach ulcer. This can and is being treated and her appetite is back and the pain has subsided. We hope not to have to go through any of those tests again anytime soon. Running around and preparing for the tests was almost worse than the illness. Thanks to all of you for your concern, prayers and positive energy on Grandma's behalf.

Becky and Mike have been working as much as possible to continue financing their USU experience. They have discovered it is expensive to live away from home but well worth the effort. Becky misses the social scene and I think Mike would just like to get on with things and get it done! It is nice to have them home. I'm thoroughly enjoying the company and treasuring this time together.

Finally, I have been taking care of Grandma more and more. I now dispense and track her medicine each day, do all her finances and help her remember what day it is with a special calendar on her frig. so she knows what to do and expect each day. It is getting harder to leave her for long periods of time because she forgets things and has had some close call cooking mishaps with the microwave and the toaster oven. I've also been trying to get some summer craft projects done. I made curtains for the kitchen finally. It only took 10 years! (See pics.) And I have been enjoying having time to do some summer reading and keep tabs on all my kids and grandsons. So far it has been a lovely summer (not too hot). Well, that's about that. We hope this finds you well and happy. Keep in touch!!!

To not be redundant

2009-06-15T13:55:00.001-06:00

I have posted some pictures of our trip to Memphis, Eli's birthday, Mother's Day, Easter, and our infamous hike to Burgess Falls. I thought I would mention it, because I don't think anyone reads my blog anymore since I have been such a delinquent poster lately. Check it out. :)

Love It!

2009-06-12T08:22:00.003-06:00

The new back ground is awsome! Now where is your post with pictures of the new curtains? I also like the recipe idea for making and freezing in cooking corner. Those would really come in handy in the early stages of pregnancy when you know your about to hate the smell, thought, and taste of all things edible and could do all your preparing before that stage. Also, for after a baby is born. Cool idea!

For My Mother

2009-05-09T12:02:00.007-06:00

Happy Mother's Day Mom. Here is a quote from Elder Jeffery R. Holland. I hope it uplifts you and makes you feel good and that on Mother's Day you will stop and think of all of the things you love about being a mom and all of the wonderful things you did right.

“Yours is the grand tradition of Eve, the mother of all the human family, the one who understood that she and Adam had to fall in order that “men [and women] might be” and that there would be joy. Yours is the grand tradition of Sarah and Rebekah and Rachel, without whom there could not have been those magnificent patriarchal promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob which bless us all. Yours is the grand tradition of Lois and Eunice and the mothers of the 2,000 stripling warriors.

Yours is the grand tradition of Mary, chosen and foreordained from before this world was, to conceive, carry, and bear the Son of God Himself. We thank all of you, including our own mothers,

and tell you there is nothing more important in this world than participating so directly in the work and glory of God, in bringing to pass the mortality and earthly life of His daughters and sons, so that immortality and eternal life can come in those celestial realms on high.”

I Love You! - Anne

Who wants to twitter?

2009-04-05T12:46:00.004-06:00

I'm sure everybody has heard of it, it's growing at a rate of almost 10000 new users a day. So as far as I'm concerned it's time to conform. I signed up today in between general conference sessions and I'm following the tweets of a few notable public figures such as Lance Armstrong and Scott Simon. It's pretty fun.
The problem is that I have nobody to follow me, so sign up and lets have our family take it to the next generation of staying in touch! Its super simple, only took me 3 minutes.
CLICK ME!

Spring Is Trying to Spring!

2009-03-25T10:48:00.003-06:00

Although you wouldn't know it to look outside today (it is snowing - AGAIN!!!), Spring has officially (according to the calendar) arrived. Some of you are enjoying the change to warm breezes, sunshine on your face and trees in bloom all about. Others of us (in Utah) are still waiting ... but we know it is coming because the trees have buds and little crocuses are popping up from the dirt all over the place and they can't be wrong (can they?). Seriously though, we need the extra moisture and we know this can't go on forever so our hopes and spirits are high.
I just viewed Mike's videos of Becky's "Dancing With the Stars" performance. Thank you so much Michael! What a fun experience and I would have given them all 10"s! One judge commented that Big Blue made his partner look good but there's no question in my mind who was making it work here. Becky you are awesome and what fun you both shared with the audience. I also had the chance to attend the USU Ballroom Dance Teams' Spring performance of "Jungles". It was also full of fun and fabulous dancing. The highlight of the evening was a dance Becky did with her partner and just one other couple called "Shadow land." It was beautiful and very well-received by the audience. One particular Mother in the audience may have even shed a tear or two. I love to watch Becky dance and even when there is a whole stage full of dancers, she shines and draws all my attention.
Other great events this year ... of course the 2 week visit of Anne and Kason! What an amazing treat to have them here with us. I got to watch Anne be an awesome Mom - she is so patient and understanding with Kason. And Kason just loves her with all his heart and many slobbery hugs & kisses. Kason is delightful and full of fun and very tolerant of his Mom and Grandma and their obsession with shopping! Someday he hopes to have lots of cousins around when he visits to play with so he has an option to hanging out with just us women. It was very difficult to send them home again when the time came (all too fast). Especially since Anne was quite sick - I almost got on the plane with them. Anne, thanks for sharing that time with us and we daily recall those special memories of playing, swimming, shopping and loving you and Kason. Come again soon. We also wish Reed well with his new Job as a Financial Advisor for Edward, Jones. He starts training this week! Hurrah! We know you will do great and wish you every success.
Another sign that Spring has sprung - Eli has discovered Baseball! What fun to hear how he pretend plays. Eli is so sharp to catch on to everything around him. Be careful what you say and do Mom & Dad - Eli is learning! It is always great to hear how much Jeff is enjoying his studies - especially his lab rotations. He seems to be involved in some very cutting edge research and we couldn't be prouder. We are so pleased that your family has found such good friends and opportunities there in TN.
Becky and Mike will wind up their Spring semester at USU with finals the first week in May. Wow, that went by fast(for me at least). Becky still has one more performance with Dance Team and a competition in Las Vegas before she's through but even with all the dance rehearsals, etc. she is doing very well in all her classes. Mike has already secured housing for next Fall. Both will return home for the Summer and work, work, work ...
Well, I have gone on forever (again). It is just so nice to have a space where I can reach out to my family and let them each know how proud I am of who they are and the choices they make. I love each one of you and admire all that you do. Stay safe and in touch - ...XOMOMXO...

P.S. I will try to post some pics of all the events described above ASAP and I have a new Cookbook coming to tell you about in the Cooking Corner as soon as it arrives so watch for updates!

Dancing With the USU Stars

2009-03-21T14:00:00.005-06:00

A few weeks ago Becky's ballroom dance team did a performance "dancing with the stars" I went and recorded it, although not in the best quality, and here it is.

This first video is their video intro:

And this second video is their dance and them being judged:

She did an awesome job and I was even surprised(and a little embarrassed, ha ha )to find I enjoyed a DANCE performance.

Nice work Beck!

Commentary about HBO show...

2009-03-11T07:29:00.002-06:00

http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/commentary/the-publicity-dilemma

2009-03-10T14:21:00.002-06:00

Sunshine On My Shoulders Makes Me Happy

2009-02-08T18:08:00.002-07:00

Kason is so excited to be taking a walk with his T-shirt on and bare feet because it was 72 degrees today! I love the weather here!

Pictures from the Holidays

2009-01-23T12:59:00.010-07:00

New Year's Eve and Good Eats!
Aunt Becky and Eli. He still says, "Becky?" sometimes when we go in the car, and we have been home for 2 weeks!
(Above)Mike on a blind date/ double date with us. Thanks for going. He had to do a snow angel, because Jeff rocks at bowling; and they lost. Thanks for being a good sport, Mike. (Below) Eli and Grandpa making trails for penny. I wish we would have gotten some swimming pictures. He still is talking about it.

I have some more pictures on the other blog, but here are a few I did not put on there. P.S. Mike and Becky, would you please email at twistertripper@gmail.com? That way, I can invite you to the other blog as well. Have a great day!

Kason's 5 Month Stats

2009-01-17T08:02:00.003-07:00

Kason went to the doctor yesterday for shots and a check up. He weighs 16 lbs. 12 oz. and is in the 50th percentile for weight. He is 27.5 inches tall and in the 75th percentile for height. And his head is 17 inches around and in the 50th percentile for head size. The doctor said he looks great and is right on track developmentaly.

2009-01-10T11:27:00.003-07:00

Hello Family!!!
Well, the Holidays are over and have left us with lots of wonderful memories to treasure and keep us warm through the winter. It may seem like that's it and there is nothing left to look forward to, but Spring will be here before we know it and there are all kinds of rumors flying around about possible travel plans. With the airlines lowereing prices to intice passengers, we just might find a way! We'll keep you posted (no pun intended).

The second week of January came and within a few short days we saw Mike and Becky return to USU, Jeff, Tammy & Eli return to TN and Dad return to work. That was tough to face. Having this blog, Skype, texting and cell phones really eases the pain of seperation. But, to get over it and get on with things I had the Relief Society ladies over for the monthly potluck luncheon on Monday, saw Jeff & Family off at the airport on Tuesday, caught up on laundry, ironing and cleaning on Wednesday, went shopping with Grandma, then to Stake Book Club and finally to a session/dinner/stake chapel meeting at the Temple all on Thursday and then made homemade granola, rice krispie squares and chex mix (to use up all the cereal left around the house) and then collapsed on Friday and started my new book for Ward Book Club ( "Team of Rivals" by Goodwin a Pulitzer Prize winning author who writes about history - this one is about how Abraham Lincoln became President and then won over his rivals to be his cabinet and advisers. It is quite good and very well written. I have to report on it in Stake book club next month so...) Finally, Friday night, we met Tammy's parents at Joe Morley's for dinner and had a great visit all under the guise of having them return our car seat to us. Tonight and tomorrow we look forward to Stake Conference.
So, that was my first week back at normal life and it went by real fast. We'll see what next week brings. One thing you can always count on is the unexpected. In the meantime, take care; we love each one of you and look anxiously forward to any precious time we get to spend with you. ...XOXOMOMXOXO...

Kason

2009-01-07T18:12:00.005-07:00

Here are some cute new pictures of Kason:

A good one of him smiling, he usually doesn't smile for the camara

Playing with his Dad!

He might look kind of nervous, but seconds before this picture was taken he was smiling.

Getting ready to go for a walk with his baseball hat on

Playing with his lifelong friend "Cow"

I think that Kason looks like Mike in this picture. What do you think?

In the Snuggley during our trip to Yorktown

I hope you enjoyed the picture show and that it has inspired you to share some pictures as well!

Kason

2008-12-15T20:51:00.001-07:00

This is a picture I had on my phone of Kason that I thought was especially cute :)

Thank you to all my wonderful children!

2008-12-03T19:46:00.001-07:00

(As far as I'm concerned, the whole Zelda "Thing" is as good as forgotten!) Now we have that cleared up, where do I begin ... the biggest, bestest, mushiest, most expensive Hallmark card ever written couldn't even begin to compete with what you kids have given me on this blog. What a meaningful gift (as you can imagine, I am teary eyed - OK, actually sobbing right now)! Thank you so much! How incredibly precious each one of you is to me. The memories you shared only reflect the joy I had in raising and just being with 4 of my best friends in the whole wide world (and I'm pretty sure in the World before this one too). How lucky am I to be your mother and share your joys, trials and blessings. How incredibly blessed we have been to find, out of all the world, Tammy and Reed to join us in our life adventure. They have become best friends too. And then Eli and Kason (who makes the most adorable reindeer I've ever seen, by the way) too! It just doesn't get any better. Sometimes I just sit in wonder at how blessed we are. Thank you, thank you, thank you for who you are and the choices you've made and may God continue to bless our lives with one another. I love you and am with you in thought and heart 24/7! And plan to stay around as long as I possibly can! ...XOXOMOMXOXO...

P.S.

2008-12-02T14:44:00.002-07:00

I'm willing to forgive and forget the whole Zelda fiasco if you are ;)

Hap-Hap-Happy Birthday!

2008-12-02T14:10:00.002-07:00

I hope your having a great birthday so far! I promise if I was there I would be massaging your feet and bringing you meals on trays that contain decorative flowers, but unfortunately I'm a couple hours away so I will have to make do with posting this on the blog...for now :)

What a great Mom you are! I was thinking on my way back to school after this weekend about how lucky I am to be your son for countless reasons. It seems like every time I come home I bring laundry with me and the farthest I usually get is putting the first load in the washer and the rest magically gets loaded, changed, and folded! Well, I suppose it's not magic and I want to use that example to thank you for your loving and helpful attitude you have showed me throughout all my life.
I really appreciate all the time you put into raising me...and the rest of your kids too I guess :) Looking back at my life so far I can think of so so many times when I had an experience that only could have happened with you, a loving and selfless mother. I remember back in California when I was a little tike and attending joy school. Everyone took a turn, but the times at home were always the best. Not because I was on my home turf, but because I had (have) the best mom. The activities were always fun and well thought out. I remember playing with shaving cream on the back porch, I remember sitting around the table eating popcorn. What a blessing it has been to me to have a mother that genuinely cares about her children's progress and happiness.
I remember one day, back in California again, when I was laying on the floor under the fan just outside the kitchen. I had a copy of the Book of Mormon and at that time in my life I was just starting to read it. You noticed what I was doing and took the time to sit next to me and read with me, as well as share with me how the important that book is. This impression has never left me and I am thankful for your testimony and example when it comes to following the gospel. At the risk of this beginning to sound like a sacrament talk I will just end that here by saying one again, thanks mom for teaching me the right :)
Thank you mom for all the great memories, and thank you for the many more to come! If anybody deserves a great birthday its you, so once again HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
With Love,
-Mike

Happy Birthday Mom!

2008-12-02T13:35:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday Mom! I am so happy that I get to be your kid! Anne is the master mind behind this plan and the second she told it to me like fifty million ideas that i could write came to mind. But one that I remember really well is when I was little, you would drive Sarah and I around to random places and try to get us lost! That was only one of the many fun and exciting things that you did for me. You have been alive for this long you can make it a while longer. You are the best and very talented. I'm so grateful that I get to partake of your genius and have an inside look at you knowledge source!

Reed's Happy Birthday wishes for Laurie

2008-12-02T10:20:00.002-07:00

Laurie, The big five-O! This will be a monumental birthday for me in 25 years because then I can play from the senior tee's at the golf course, but for you, you can just remember it as a new year with new adventures.

I am truly sorry Anne, Kason and I will be missing out on your birthday feast, I am sure it will be excellent, because I have never has a bad meal in your home. I will especially miss the desert!

Happy Birthday

Love, Reed

Happy Birthday Mom

2008-12-02T09:50:00.004-07:00

I wanted to say happy birthday by sharing some memories and a little note about how much I love you (and a cute little picture of Kason).

Some of my best memories (and I know this is weird) are staying home sick from school. I have to admit that I often faked being sick so that I could come home to you and have you all to myself. It was such a treat to have all of your attention. You're so good at expression your concern and making me feel special and comfortable. It meant a lot to know you were there at home and would come get me whenever I needed you (even though I'm sure you knew I wasn't really sick some of the time).

I can also remember all of the fun activities we used to do and how you let us get involved and be creative and just have fun with so many activities. Like carving pumpkins at Halloween, decorating the tree at Christmas, cooking with my easy bake oven, helping you toll paint, your support as I put on shows in the back yard. All of these are wonderful childhood memories enhanced and facilitated by you!

When I think of you I remember you playing Christmas songs quietly on the piano while we tried to calm down enough to go to sleep, I remember our "special days" during the summer in Logan. I remember long talks where you were are alway so good at understanding what I was feeling. I remember watching you cook and paint and admiring your talent.

Recently I had an opportunity that will always be a cherished memory. Having you come and stay with me as I fumbled with being a new mother. It was such a blessing to have you there as support and help and wisdom. It was wonderful to see you love my son and to be able to share with my mother as I experienced for the first time the blessing of motherhood. I will always be grateful for that time and that memory.

I love you mom and I hope that your Birthday is wonderful! Yes you are getting older, but think of the legacy you have left so far and all of the people whose lives you've molded and who love you for it. I hope that thought will help brighten you outlook on being 50 and that you truly have a HAPPY Birthday!

Love, Anne

Happy Birthday Nanna!!!

2008-12-02T08:00:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday! Eli wanted to draw you a picture too.
Here are some memories I have of Laurie during the past 3 years. I can’t believe it has been that long. Time flies!

Talks:
I always love talking with Laurie. That is why I call her so often. Some of my favorite times with her have been talking in the living room about motherhood, the joys of teaching, and times when we have both learned and gained testimonies of important truths.

80s Mystery Dinner:
I really appreciated how Laurie not only went WAY out of her comfort zone to do the mystery dinner, but she was also quite the performer. It was truly hilarious (in a good way) to see how she took on the character. Thanks for making it so fun, Laurie!

Baby Eli:
I remember how lucky I felt to have Laurie as a mother-in-law when she brought us dinners to freeze after Eli was born. She also remembered our anniversary and brought us some paper gifts that really came in handy. It was a rough recovery and adjustment for me, and I don’t know if I could have made it without those meals and paper plates.

Eli also appreciates her many shopping sprees on his behalf. He is one of the best dressed babies around, and he is lucky to have such a loving Nana.

Welcoming:
I remember the first time that I went to dinner at the Bylund’s. I was really nervous; because, let’s be honest, I acted kind of wishy washy with Jeff for a really long time while we were dating. On my way over there, I thought, “If I were these people, I would think I was mean; and I would not want my son to be dating me.” Luckily, Laurie was really nice and welcoming. She made me feel right at home, as did everyone else. She has continued to do so, which is one of my favorite things about her. Thanks for welcoming me into your family!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Tammy and Eli

Memories That Make me Glad You Were Born

2008-12-02T06:33:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday Mom!

Since I can't be there in person to give you a gift and to say happy birthday, I am writing this birthday post (in the hip modern style of the techno generation) to let you know that I am thinking of you and am celebrating your birthday even in Tennessee.

I also wanted to share a few memories that we have made together that are special to me, hoping to help you smile on your birthday. One thing that I often remember and always appreciated (both now and when I was young) is how you always helped out at school. I was so proud to have a mom who was so talented that she could come to school and teach our whole class fun and interesting things about art. I also really enjoyed the activities we did, and still think my greatest work of art was achieved during a charcoal 'painting' activity you had us do in Mrs. Lewis' class. I managed to achieve, as per your expert direction, a very well rendered action pose of an Indy car smoking its wheels as it tried to speed down the track. It hung on the wall of the class all year like the Mona Lisa in the Louvre. Thanks for helping that little artist in me and my classmates come out.

Another thing that I have fond memories of is coming home to a mom who was there, and ready to listen and to teach and to love after a day of school or work or whatever else I had going on. Whether I came home tired, frustrated, excited, sad, or all of the above, you were there to share my joys and to help me through my disappointments. What a tremendous blessing that was and continues to be.

Finally, I remember the time that you helped steer us all towards loving each other as a family and not just tolerating each other as people who lived in the same house together. You had us all come together and told us you weren't going to have a "dysfunctional family anymore." It makes me smile to think back on how dramatic it was at the time, but it was just what we needed to get the point. From that time on we started addressing each other as "[so and so] who I love and adore and appreciate with all my heart" whenever we had anything to ask or to say. It was a funny way to make a habit out of speaking kindly and considerately to one another and it changed our attitudes in such a way as to help us think and feel more kindly and considerately towards one another. Your tender pleadings that we love each other and tireless efforts to help us remember to be kind never failed to influence us. This led our family to have a closeness and friendship that has lasted to this day.

I hope your day goes well as you celebrate a half-century of life (don't worry, a century isn't that long; after all, Methuselah had more than 9 of them under his belt) and that you continue to have many more happy memories with friends and family for the other half.

Love, Jeff

Tammy to the Rescue!

2008-12-01T15:39:00.002-07:00

Well, Tammy happened to call me while I was shedding "tears in my beer" (rootbeer that is) over totally messing up our blog site and she was able to calm me down and talk me through a complete recovery process. And not only that, but she stayed with me until I had accomplished what I set out to do in the first place (a new background for Christmas) AND she even got me linked up to her family blog spot and Anne's too so I can go right from here to there at the click of a key! Thanks Tammy! Unfortunately, now I am out of time and will have to add another posting later to update you on what's been happening around here...so talk to you soon. Stay well and be happy. Love You Forever, ...XOXOMOMXOXO...

2008-12-01T14:14:00.002-07:00

Well, I've done it now! I tried to get all cute with our blog site and add a Christmas background and instead ended up deleting our layout and since I don't have Anne here to help me I've lost everything - our cute family picture, our gadgets and the ability to add to our layout. I'm stuck! I'll keep playing around to see if I can figure it out but don't be surprised if we disappear completrly before I am done.
MOM

2008-11-10T11:51:00.002-07:00

Some of you have requested a pic of Grandma & Grandpa to have on hand so little folks won't forget us; how about this one?

2008-11-10T11:46:00.003-07:00

2008-11-10T11:19:00.002-07:00

Well, family, we have successfully launched our last family members from the Salt Lake valley. Anne, Reed and Kason are now safely in the care of the Sloat family in Suffolk, VA. Everything seemed to go so smoothly and we are very grateful. Reed left with all of their belongings early on a Wednesday morning and kept us informed of his progress for four days as he made his way home to VA. A stop at Jeff & Tammy's for Halloween was a welcome rest and we're pretty sure it only took Eli a few minutes to remember his pal, Uncle Reed. Anne and Kason stayed on with us for an extra incredibly precious and cherished week that we will always treasure. Then on election day 2008, we took them to the airport and saw them safely through security to start their new adventure. Anne reported that Kason was a great traveler and all went well. Anne & Reed & Kason we send you all our love and best wishes for every success and happiness in VA.

The valley feels pretty empty now. It is very hard to think of those two apartments at the Deverouax that meant so much to us and were such a delight to visit are now occupied by others. And don't even ask me to go downstairs and see how empty those bedrooms are. Saturday night I was sitting in the livingroom doing some crocheting and watching TV. All of a sudden my eyes welled up with tears and I realized it was because no one was coming for Sunday dinner. We'll survive, but the adjustment is difficult. You kids have all just been so wonderful, I can't give you up! But we look forward to Thanksgiving when Mike and Becky can come home and possibly my brother Brent will join us. And, of course, we can't wait for December 20th when we'll once again get to see Jeff, Tammy and Eli. And we are so grateful that we have sent Anne, Reed and Kason from a loving family to a loving family and we have no doubt they will be taken care of. So, Happy Holidays (they are right around the corner) to each and every one of you. We love you so much and take great joy in sharing your lives with you so keep in touch ... XOXOMOM&DADXOXO...

A request

2008-11-07T15:54:00.001-07:00

More posts and pictures from the western front, please. :)

2008-10-24T17:35:00.005-06:00

Thanks to everyone who has taken time to share pics and thoughts on our blog spot. It is so fun to bring up the blog and see your faces and hear what is going on in your lives...just like that! I love it!

As you know, we recently enjoyed a trip to San Diego. I think this may be one of my favorite 10 places on Earth. It is just so beautiful there. I didn't realize how much I've missed CA - the smell and feel of it, the Ocean, the sunshine and the greenery on all the freeways, etc. Even the people were friendly and accepting (although very aggressive drivers - you have to know where you're going). Anyway, we had a great time. JR, Kellie & Jordan helped us feel right at home. We even got to see Riley while he made an impromptu trip home from BYU with some gals he met who had never been to San Diego. We got to revisit Sea World and were especially impressed with the Dolphin Show and the new, very wet ride called Atlantis. We got to see the Aircraft Carrier the Midway which was in active operation from WWII through Dessert Storm and is now retired and used as a museum - very cool. We then enjoyed an afternoon at the beach where Bill, Mike & Becky did some Boogie Boarding and swimming. Finally we enjoyed a day at the San Diego Wild Animal Park. I think the Gorillas were especially impressive - everything there is so close and they try not to conceal the animals behind bars (they use Plexiglas or natural barriers) so everything seems more natural. We also saw Lions, Giraffes, Hippos, Rhinos, a Cheetah, Birds and all kinds of other African & Asian wildlife. We ate seafood, Mexican food and In&Out Burger Food and had great trip. It felt so good to get out and walk in the sunshine and spend time together. Our only regret - that all of you couldn't be with us. Maybe that should be a goal - a return trip to the Rohnert Park, CA area for the entire Bylund clan someday. That would be awesome!

Well, I suppose I could go on and on (or maybe I already have) but I just want to conclude by saying that I love each and every one of you. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and pray for your happiness and success. Choose to be in good places and always make good choices and I know you will be happy and successful. Keep in touch ... Love Forever, ...XOMOMXO...
(I'm going to try and post some pics - these are compliments of Becky who was our primary trip photographer. Thanks Becky!)

Happy Halloween from Tennessee's Trunk or Treat

2008-10-23T21:52:00.000-06:00

San Diago!

2008-10-21T20:59:00.004-06:00

Greetings! Let me be the first to immortalize our recent trip to San Diego in the family blog. It was a blast! Sea World, The USS Midway, The Beach, and the oh so Wild Animal Park.
My personal favorite was Sea World, how in the world do you teach a killer whale to do that kind of stuff? We saw and did everything from touching the sting-rays to laughing at the penguins.
Of course, the beach was the other highlight of the trip. The warm weather made it a perfect afternoon full of body surfing and boogie boarding.
I'm now back in L-Town wishing I was still in San Diego. The semester is half over though and classes are going great so onward!
Thanks Mom and Dad for the fun trip!

2008-10-14T15:09:00.002-06:00

SURPRISE!!!!! I am taking fyling lessons at Utah State and i think that its going well. I only need to use stairs for the first take off and then I'm flying like a birdy! But really everything is going well for me in logan! I don't really know what i supposed to do on a blog but hopefully this is right. I love you family members! Oh and why is Eli getting bigger? Thats not fair! :(

Kason's Blessing

2008-10-14T11:40:00.002-06:00

We blessed Kason on Sunday. It went well and Reed did a great job! We missed Jeff, Tammy, and Eli; but are looking forward to seeing them in Virginia over spring break maybe????

Picture Update

2008-10-06T11:12:00.001-06:00

Here is Eli with Jeff and their backpacks. Both were very excited to show them off. I put more pictures on the other blog as well. Love you all!

In the Beginning... of Our Blog

2008-10-02T15:30:00.000-06:00

Welcome home family. Dad and I decided it was high time we took a leap into the cyberspace world of blogging so we could stay in touch with all of our wonderful children and their families. This will be a place where we can post dates and times of important events, latest pics of everyone, the latest family news and letters from Dad and I. We also hope to make it a place where you can link to any other family members' blogs, etc. Please don't feel like you have to write something here if you've already covered it on your own blog. But comments and the sharing of ideas are always welcome. I also hope to start posting weekly menues and favorite recipes if you think that would be enjoyed and I hope you will do the same. Just have fun with it! We look forward to hearing from you and especially LOVE pictures! Take care for now - more to come ... Love Forever, ...X,OMOM & DADX,O...

Bylunds of the South

2008-09-29T12:14:00.000-06:00

Well, we are now living in beautiful Tennessee. Jeff is studying at Vanderbilt, and Eli and Tammy are enjoying all the free family activities found in the neighborhood. We will be living here for about 6 1/2 years, and then who knows. Life is treating us well, and we feel really blessed to be in such a beautiful state with such friendly people.

Eli is now almost 16 months. It is crazy to think that he will almost be in the nursery. He loves climbing, reading, singing, dancing, going for walks, throwing balls, kicking balls, pushing cars and making vroom sounds, and teasing his parents . He is very good at sharing and is very sweet with other kids and his parents. We feel lucky to have such a kind little guy in our family.

Jeff will be posting something about his pet rock soon, Anne. Don't you worry. :)

Kason Stats and Move Update

2008-09-27T10:15:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone! Kason had his 2 month doctors appointment yesterday and is a "Good Baby!" The doctor said that she wished they had a "great baby" catagory that she could circle for Kason, but it only goes up to good, so that is the official declaration. He is in the 80th percentile for height at 23.75 inches, the 50th percentile for weight at 11lbs 8ozs, and in the 40th percentile for head size at 39.5 cm. He had to have two immunization shots and a drink, but he is handling it all very well. Oh yeah, and he rolled over (stomach to back) for the first time on Sunday!

We are blessing him Sunday October 12th at Mom and Dad's Ward. So, everyone that can come, mark it on you calendar (we will miss Jeff, Tammy, and Eli).

Finally: We are officially moving to Virginia. We did the research and the cheapest option for us turned out to be renting a moving van that Reed will drive (and tow the car) and Kason and I will fly. So, Reed is leaving the 26th or 27th with the truck and Kason and I will fly out on Nov. 4th. We will be staying with the Sloats in Suffolk until further arrangements can be made (ie. buying a house).