ROOTED:

“When I think of Elyse what comes to mind is CALM. From first meeting you (good job Greg!) and as our relationship has grown I have absolutely adored you. You are the most caring, kind, giving human! I am so blessed to have you in my and my family's lives. I cherish our friendship greatly. You deserve so much love on your birthday and everyday!  Thank you for being you! Love, Liz” (niece by marriage)

“In my family’s darkest hour, when our daughter was missing and feared to be in danger, Elyse became a steady beacon of  hope amidst overwhelming uncertainty. As I wrestled with guilt and the weight of blame filled the air, she took command with grace and reminded us all that this was not our fault - it was the results of our daughter’s own choices. Through those harrowing moments, Elyses strength, wisdom, patience, and compassion never wavered. In the deepest darkness, she held our family-and me-together with unwavering love and clarity, offering comfort that brought us back to each other when we needed it most.”  -  Roy

“I have seen Elyse at her best when she is being a grounded friend. She listens carefully, reflects accurately and is able to synthesize what one is saying into the calm needed at the moment and is able to offer creative, practical solutions. She is a joy to be around and I’m so glad you introduced us” - Christine A.

“One of the most amazing traits that Elyse has is her ability to stay calm in the midst of life’s dramas. Her gut instinct is to stay calm and then think logically. This is an awesome tool - especially because it is likely that I am coming at her from a very emotional place most of the time. Elyse is an awesome person to deal with when a calm and practical response is needed” - Tom (ex-husband)

RESOURCED: 

“I am always impressed by how Elyse can combine her analytical abilities objectively with her natural empathy when it comes to helping those around her.  In particular, I think of how she zeroed in on college majors / careers for a number of kids and how in some of my tough moments she seems to know me better than I know myself”  - Steve (brother)

“If there’s one person who can make everyone feel seen, loved, and celebrated, it’s Elyse. She is endlessly personable, always shining with warmth, and her outgoing spirit lights up every room she enters. Now, let’s be honest—the Truland clan is an eclectic bunch. We’re not exactly the easiest crowd to wrangle, but Elyse does it with grace, patience, and a whole lot of heart. Every time we come together, she goes out of her way to make each person feel special—never asking for anything in return.  She puts others first, setting aside her own wants just to make sure the people around her are happy. That kind of selflessness is rare, and it's something we’re all incredibly lucky to receive.” - Allison and Jon (sister-in-law and brother)

“What we cherish about Elyse is her empathy and great listening skills. It's always great to talk to her--she's right there with you! Happy, happy Birthday!”  - Roz & Gerald

“Elyse’s greatest strength is her kindness and empathy. When she asks you “How are you?” She really wants to know. She always offers words of kindness and compassion and encouragement. She is truly a friend which is a gift to us.”  - Jo-Ann & Jeff

REAL:

“When we think of Elyse we think of a caring, compassionate person always helping someone, seeing everyone’s perspective, appreciating the best in people and excluding no one. And is a great friend, daughter, Mother and wife. Elyse loves to learn and share her knowledge to help others. We love Elyse.” - Irene and Joe

“Elyse, a woman whose innate essence shines with a translucent purity and informs her actions with kindness and compassion; whose eloquent words are articulated and infused with a depth of perception, guidance and truth, and whose presence generates a safe space of love for all. Happy 60th birthday to a magnificent woman!” - Much love, Julie 

“I feel Mom is at her best when we are having real, honest conversations. Her advice comes from lived experience. It’s grounded, thoughtful, and never superficial. She's the person I turn to for perspective, and even when I don’t take her advice right away (because I can be stubborn), I always realize later that she was right. What matters most isn’t just the advice, it’s how those talks make me feel. Whether I’m venting, seeking guidance, sharing my life, or my career (that I wouldn’t have if it wasn’t for her encouragement) I always come away feeling closer to her than I did before. Without her guidance and emotional intelligence I truly do not believe I would be the person I am today. And for that I am forever grateful.” - Justin (Son, 29)

“Today, we want to take a moment to celebrate someone truly special – our friend Elyse.  Always kind, always open, always ready to help. Through both everyday moments and more difficult times—like when Ajay was in the hospital—she’s been a shoulder to lean on. What stands out most is her openness. She’s accepting, thoughtful, and always willing to engage in honest conversation - never with judgment, always with respect. Her curiosity and willingness to explore new ideas, new remedies, and different perspectives is something we all truly admire.She’s a wonderful mother, wife, and friend—and we’re lucky to know her. We wish you many more joyful, meaningful years ahead.” - Ajay & Rima

ROOTED + RESOURCED + REAL:

“There have been countless times that Elyse has demonstrated her gift of being a caring, empathetic listener, a trait which I have always admired. But I think the time I was really in awe of her was when the boys were little and she carved her own path as a newly single woman. She knew what was going to be best for her boys, and for her. Even when others were trying to convince her to take a step back, she forged forward. Her fierce independence served them all well and  led to the wonderful lives they enjoy today. Love you Elyse!” - Tammy (sister-in-law)

“One of Elyse’s superpowers is to bring her genius & deeply informed abilities to see, hold and understand the unique dynamics of challenging or dysfunctional situations with the intention that the best outcome for EVERYONE will always emerge.  That combination of trust in what’s possible, accrued wisdom and practical action has time and time again resulted in *miracles* of healing!!” - Max

“Elyse is always looking for ways to help other people; she’s dedicated her life to this purpose. Elyse is a great listener and an outside-the-box thinker who looks for creative solutions to issues impacting her family, friends, and society as a whole. One more: Elyse is a beautiful person who always tries to make others feel loved and appreciated”. - Fran and Jason (cousins)

“Elyse has been an incredible force in my life. She has been my steadfast guide offering wisdom, kindness, and an unshakable belief that has truly transformed my life. I owe the life I have today to her council over the  years” - Jeremy (soul-son)