Linda's Journey

2011-02-25T22:40:00.000-08:00

Dave is taking a time out from the blog for a bit

Tuesday.......February 15th.....2011

2011-02-16T01:45:00.000-08:00

Today......the 16th.....is Janines birthday......I thought it was the 15th.......but at least I am thinking.....and valentine cards went to the grand kids in a timely manner......now in Central Oregon for business.....went over a very stormy snowy pass today...have not lost the touch......

Sunday....February 13th...2011

2011-02-13T22:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines day to all of you tomorrow ..my Valentine is in Heaven.....Happy Valentinea day dear Linda......

Dave is "getting out there"....on the advice of a wise one.....today he went to volleyball games and dinner with Jim and Jenn......tomorrow he. Goes to view a trial conclusion and Tuesday to Eugene for some Wings work and then on to Bend to meet with realtors, the accountant and his broker and then some skiing.......in March a Florida trip.is coming together ....thanks for the phone calls and messages of support...and supporting my journey....

Thursday.....February 10th...2011

2011-02-11T00:15:00.000-08:00

Dave found Linda's "I'm going to beat this because"...written sometime during her cancer journey...she wrote down 4 things on 4 different pieces of "I'm going to beat this because.....

They were:

1. I'm going to beat this because I want to travel to Nebraska in the motor coach with Marlin and Joni in June.....she did accomplish this and saw her many relatives and was very happy and satisfied she had carried through with this desire.....

2. I'm going to beat this because I want to travel to Egypt and Greece..... not accomplished....she dreamed of going to Europe and specifically the middle eastern countries of Egypt and Greece....towards the end she just wanted to fly to California to see her friend Mary....Mary came to see her instead....

3. I'm going to beat this because I want to be here for Janine's wedding and the grandchild's birth and babyhood....Janine has other ideas like being single....Linda loved babies...and loved dearly her two grand children...she just couldn't figure out why there could only be 2 of them with 5 kids...

4. I'm going to beat this because I want to watch Jeff grow into the life he dreams of with a home and a family....this was the one she carried to the end...she wanted so much for Jeff....she always saw him as very talented and personable and never quite understood the directions he has taken....he still has time...plenty of time...and his Mother IS watching and still dreaming her dream for him....

Wednesay....February 9th....2011....

2011-02-09T21:21:00.000-08:00

Tough days trying to get the new Droid phone working right....saving lots over what we had before but not all worked out yet....also working on financilas of which the formulas are not being obvious to me....two days of frustration on the above...Friday is dinner preparation for the Listening Heart Wings team...Linda and I had committed to doing it as she wouldn't be able to do the full seminar like she did in September...it is/was our favorite seminar as it is for couples...dear friend Claudia is going to help me cook and prepare it...I will owe her big....

Nice weather.....maybe some outside work tomorrow... .

Tuesday...February 9th...2011

2011-02-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

Sorry Dave has been off line...

New computer with no more Verizon internet..but now back to smart phone....and just out of a Wings Seminar....

Trying to catch my breath and get some tax and client stuff done that Linda was unable to complete...having some trouble but trying to stay calm and "eat an elephant one bite at a time".

Friday...February 4th...2011

2011-02-04T23:10:00.000-08:00

Linda's sister Karen's Service Reading at the Celebration of Linda....

The certain hope of every child of God is that death is not the end but only the gate to greater life. This keeps believers from fearing death. If we gave our heart to Jesus, we can be certain that He prepared a place for us in His Father's house. Death is not a pit but a tunnel leading to a far greater fullness of light than we ever saw before, because we shall then be in the light of God. (Devotional by Corrie ten Boom, world wide missionary evangelist)

Linda also attended St. Olaf College for it's music courses. She sang in the school choir. When Linda and Dave were married, she sang a song to him. She also sang many solo's in church. The hymn "My Redeemer Lives" was inspired by the verse in Job from the devotional.

For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And . . . in my flesh shall I see God.
Job 19: 25-26 KJV

Thursday...February 3rd...2011

2011-02-03T22:11:00.000-08:00

We plan on spreading Lindas's ashes this early summer at Pamila Lake in the Mt Jefferson wilderness...the hike is easy..... see below...this is where we hiked with the kids a few times and spent the night when they were young..it brought special meaning to Linda...so we will honor her in this place...

Season: Summer thru Fall

Permit: Special Pass Required - Detroit Ranger Station

Features: This is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Mt Jefferson Wilderness area. After one visit, you'll see why. This place is just plain fantastic!

Keep in mind you must obtain a special use permit to hike/camp in the Pamelia Lake / Hunts Cove area of the Mt Jefferson Wilderness. But don't worry, the permits are free, but only a limited number are given out each day. So get to the Detriot Ranger Station early! Or better yet, call ahead. Here is the contact info:

Detroit Ranger District
HC73, Box 320
Mill City, OR 97360
Phone 503-854-3366
FAX 503-854-4239
Summer hours: 7 days a week 8-4:30 Memorial Day - Columbus Day
Regular hours: Monday-Friday 8-4:30

The trail to Pamelia Lake begins fairly gently as it follows Pamelia Creek most of the way to the lake. From time to time you will have excellent opportunities to enjoy the creek and it's beautiful cascades.

At about 2.3 miles you will come to the shore of Pamelia Lake. Your first sight of this gorgeous lake can be overwhelming, depending on the weather and season.

Pamelia Lake Trail is one of the best day hikes in Oregon.

One of the biggest draws of this hike is the wonderful stream that meanders along the right side of the trail. Because the stream is fed by the surrounding mountains snow melt, this stream has a slightly different character and intensity depending upon what time of year you do this hike. This factor makes this a hike that is fun to do a couple times a year.

The trail is around 5 miles in total length. Two and a half miles in to a sweet little lake that is nesseld within the bowl of the surrounding mountains and another two and a half miles back out along the same trail.

Once you get to the lake you can add another mile or so to the hike by hiking around the lake. The trail is not a difficult one and provides many interesting things to look at along the way. There are many areas along the trail with easy access to the stream. You will walk among a nice combination of disiduous and coniferous trees. Trilliums abound on this trail along with many other wild flowers. The lake is quite still and a good place to sit and look for fish, we can almost guarantee that you will see some. This is a very satisfying hike and provides a lot of enjoyment without a lot of work.

Pamelia Lake is located 7 miles north of Detroit, OR.

Directions:
• From Salem, OR, take Oregon State Highway 22 to milepost 68 turn left onto Pamelia Lake Road..
• The road is a narrow but paved, one lane with turnouts.
• Drive straight for about 3 miles and you will come to the trailhead
• There are limited bathroom facilities and no running water.

Every Oregon great outdoors hiking trail has something unique to offer. Oregon is a good place for backcountry walkers. Here in Oregon backpacking is the perfect thing to do. There are so many backpacking and hiking trails in this area. All through the summertime, highs usually are in the 70's at Pamelia Lake Trail. Once the sun is down it descends down to the 50's. High temperatures during the wintertime are normally in the 40's, and night lows in the 30's

• Pamelia is a 50-acre hike-in lake surrounded by nice fir forests in an alpine setting. Splendid views of Mount Jefferson can be had from many points around the lake. Scenic beauty aside, Pamelia may hold little appeal to serious anglers. Both rainbows and brook trout are abundant, but small. Trout average 7-10 inches with very few bigger fish. Nevertheless, you will catch lots of fish, and there is no limit on brook trout. The lake is open all year, and all fishing methods are permitted, including bait. Bank access is good around the whole lake, and good catches can be made by casting spinners, eggs, worms, or small streamer flies. A float tube may help increase the action, giving anglers access to the deeper, middle section of the lake and brushy shorelines. Consider taking light tackle to increase the sportiness of these fish. Ultralight spinning rods and fly rods in 2- and 3-weights are ideal.

Wednesday....February 2nd ...2011

2011-02-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

This is the 5th and last piece written and spoken at the Celebration of Linda......by her special friend. Each of the 5 pieces is so wonderful to read over and over to get a sense of what a person Linda was....and what she left for us as gifts...

I knew Linda best as a Mother and a friend.

We lived just around the corner from each other in Salem.

In 1985 Linda knocked on my door and I was greeted with a loaf of banana bread and a smile. That was 25 years ago. Over the years Linda and I shared many special times together. She was a good mother, who led by example and I so admired that.

One memory I have was in 1986 when Jeff got his first paper route. I remember Linda helping him out for a while. Rain or shine they got up around 4 am and delivered the papers. She called me excited one day describing how Jeff had been just made Carrier of the Year…she was so proud.

The last time I saw Linda; I came out of her hospital room and walked down the hall with tears in my eyes. It was then Jeff appeared, seeing me in distress. He got up and walked to me with outstretched arms and gave me a big hug.

Linda would have been so proud at what a great compassionate man he had turned out to be.
A few years back, my husband and I went out to eat at a restaurant in Salem. We were sitting waiting for our meal and Linda’s son Jim came up and greeted us. He was very friendly and outgoing. He said he was one of the managers at the restaurant.

Linda shred recently that Jim was a good business man and marveled at his ability managing restaurant.

Janine…she makes me smile,

Janine and my daughter Marcy became best friends right after we moved to Salem in 1985.
When Janine was in the 4th grade, Linda made both girls matching outfits. Several weeks later Marcy’s pants were destroyed in a laundry room accident .I told Linda how sorry I was that they were ruined. Less than 24 hours later, Linda showed up on my doorstep with a new pair of pants she had made. That was Linda..... such a caring woman.

Recently Linda described to me a list of Janine’s wonderful qualities…from being a good teacher to a great hostess…and many qualities in between.

I see a little of Linda in each of the children and that is so comforting to me.

Linda is home now…In peace and cancer free. I personally believe she is spending time catching up with Jono who passed before her.

Janine Tells me Linda is smiling down on all of us. Thank you and thanks for her

If cancer has a good side, Linda would say it is the reconnecting with old friends…these friends added to her quality of life in these last few years and months. Today I say to each of you on her behalf….Don’t wait until you are ill or your friends are ill. Reach out and connect and enjoy these friendships now. No one knows how much time each of us has.

In the end, Linda said family and friends were the most important to her …and she is right.

My life has been enriched having Linda as my neighbor…and as my friend , she will always have a special place in my heart…

Tuesday....February 1st....2011

2011-02-01T22:31:00.000-08:00

Number 4 Special Linda Friend's presentation at the Celebration of Linda......

"When I shared with Linda some 25 years ago that Roman and I wanted to
get married in just over a month, she jumped right in to help me make it
a special day. She offered their beautiful back yard for the wedding
then made sure every detail was taken care of as only Linda can. It was
the perfect day and Linda made me a beautiful wedding book that I
treasure still today.

As you all know, there really is nothing Linda couldn't do and do well.
She was especially gifted at decorations and colors, what went with this
and that. It was not so many of the beautiful things in my home over
the years were a result of her handiwork.

I was able to work beside her in some of her rentals clear back when she
was in Salem and I learned construction from an expert. She taught me
so much over the years. I was able to completely remodel our West Salem
house and even take on the construction of our new home. Even though
Linda didn't lift a hammer in that house, her design tips are
everywhere. I was blessed to have her stay with me this past summer
while Dave was helping in a Wings Seminar and was able to share with her
all her did to make this house our home. I was able to share with her
my beautiful garden today like she had shared with me her garden some 25
years ago. There will be a new Rose bush in my garden in her memory,
however, she will forever be a Rose in my heart. I love you, Linda. "

Your friend, Judy

"Linda and I became friends in the early 80's. Really don't know why we
connected so well but we did. She had that air of self confidence and
strength that I admired from the very beginning and it drew me to her.
I was single at the time and struggling with a new business venture.
Her words of encouragement kept me going many times but more than that
she showed by example there was nothing a woman couldn't do and be
really good at it besides.

When I think back over the years, of all the time we talked about our
businesses and I would ask for her input on some situation, she never
gave me solutions, instead we would talk thru the problem till the
answers became clear. She had a way about her that always made me feel
special and on my drives back from Bend or Sisters or even Canby, I
Always felt I was so blessed to have her to share with."

Monday....January 31st...2011

2011-01-31T20:26:00.000-08:00

Mary...Linda's dear friend Mary....so close and then were apart for so long and then back together....closer than ever...Linda marveled at this ..how it came apart and then so quickly back together...and Mary was Linda's brides maid when she married that neat husband to be of hers (yours truly)....

This is special friend number 3...from Mary.....

Part 1 - the early years

I'd like to share some thoughts about Linda's courage.
We were first friends in a very small town where everyone really did know your name. It was birthday parties, Saturday night dinner with friends and life around families - vacationing, camping - just fun.

We were such young mothers when Linda lost her husband Rich Emken, dad to their four children - Jim, Jeff, Janine, Jonathan. Rich was killed in a tragic plane crash, so suddenly gone from their lives.

We found ourselves single mothers at the same time. We grieved together, were a little lost together and found strength together. Linda showed me that courage meant resilience and being brave enough to move forward with our families. We started a little tradition of moms and kids weekends together every few months. We would pile our six kids into her home, cook and bake, play games and gradually found the simple joy of moving on with our lives and growing into strong women.

On one of those weekends, we tucked everyone in and left the kids with a very 'responsible' babysitter and went off to a late dinner and a little music....and there Linda met Dave Wood. She never looked back. She built a blended family and embraced two more children, Wendy and Julie. The rest of the history is the Dave and Linda story.

She had the courage to start a big, new life.

Part 2 - the last few years

Let's talk a bit more about courage. As you all are witness, Linda showed great courage to fight the cancer fight since 2007. Linda and Dave became blog demons both seeking strength and giving all of us strength. But she never stopped living life with joy, spirit and enthusiasm.
- a few more car races for fan appreciation work, and we met up at the Long Beach Grand Prix
- another cruise..or two or three
- off to Alaska
- more time at the beach and we met up at Mo's and the aquarium and the beach house for games of dominos
- back to Florida for more fun
- a train trip to Victoria
- another RV trip to Nebraska and then to Southern California where we met up in Ventura after a big Disney tour
- and, can you believe it, another house remodel!
These were just a few examples of Linda living her high energy life just as she always had before.

In her last days, she was ready to keep on fighting. "Just tell me the plan" she said. But then she held her family and friends close and said the words we needed to hear.
- about love
- about how she knew we would be all right
- about how we were to take care of one another

Jim, Jeff, Janine, Wendy, Jillian, Taigen, Dave - we know she gave you the gift of courage, we know you will make her proud and we will be here for you.

We five friends, we all thank Linda for being our long-time, deep-down-to-the-heart friend, for being our secret strength, for being our inspiration, for showing us the way to absolute courage.

We love you Linda!

Sunday....January 30th...2011

2011-01-30T19:17:00.000-08:00

This is the part that dear friend Claudia spoke to at the Celebration.... #2 of 5....I don't know if folks have been following the Eulogy and these testimonials...they are all spectacular and lessons galore...

We all live to die. Some just do it so much better than others. Linda
lived with Gusto, Strength, Courage, Love, and a real Zest. It is no
wonder that so many of us have gathered here today to celebrate her life.

I would like to share a few of my memories of Linda Rasmussen Emkin Wood.

I met Linda just a few years ago. I believe the year was 1959. Linda
was about 13 and a few names shorter then.

We instantly became good friends and confidantes.

I know that there is a code that, 'what happens in High School stays in
High School,' but I think it only appropriate that I share with you
that I was with Linda when she committed her first crime...and knowing
Linda, her last.

Linda had just gotten her drivers license, and had persuaded her mom to
let her take the car one evening. There was a full car of us girls, but
I can't remember anyone other than Linda and I. We had just left the
movie theater and were laughing and talking and "just being teen girls"
when Linda accidentally ran the only stop light in Newberg. As luck
would have it, a police officer was at the light going the opposite
direction at the time. We knew we had been spotted so while he turned
his car around to come after us, we turned down some side streets and
wound around in the dark neighborhoods thinking we could hide from him.
Well we weren't very good at being bad, so shortly he was pulling us
over.

His first question to us was "where you girls going?" We said "We are
headed home." Well he looked at where we were and where Linda's license
said "home" was, and it was obvious what we were trying to do. Linda,
always being the honest person, said "We accidently ran the light and
when we saw you there, we panicked." He did ticket her, but we didn't
end up having to bail ourselves out of jail!

We were adolescents and at that awkward age where we worried about
everything and everything was Huge, and Exciting, or Devastating. I
noticed while many of us were stressing over who liked us and who didn't,
Linda was not concerned. She believed everyone liked her and if they
didn't, that was their problem. Linda had that kind of self confidence. I
also noted her ability to talk easily with everyone, especially boys. One
day, we were in her room sitting Indian style on her bed, looking at the
huge red heart with a silhouette of a dancing couple. (Linda had made
this heart for our sweetheart dance and had brought it home afterward for
a memento.) Now I have to back up a bit here. Linda, in those days,
wore these white- framed glasses with, as I remember, these kind of
"wings" on them. I think Dave has posted a picture somewhere on the bog.

Ok, got the picture?

I said to Linda. "You have so much confidence and you are so relaxed
around boys. I have three sisters, and no boy cousins, they are strange,
foreign creatures to me. I don't know what to talk about I don't know
what they THINK!" Linda tilted her head downward, chin on chest, raised
her eyebrows and looking at me over those white- framed glasses said "I
have two older brothers, so trust me when I say they DON'T"
In my life, I have found that to be so true!

Our Linda was a giver. Probably everyone here can think of something
Linda has given them. It might have been as simple as a smile or that
twinkle in her eye, or her unconditional love, or it may have been
something tangible. I was in her home the other day and commented on the
beautiful wreath over her fireplace. Immediately, members of her family
started telling of the wreaths that Linda had made for them over the
years. I wish I had taken notes so I could repeat some of them here, but
the only one I remember now was the one she had made with Teddy Bears on
it. Teddy Bears because her friend was about to be a first time
Grandmother.

BUT I will always remember the day I stopped by her home and Linda, who
was on oxygen, unsteady on her feet, and lacking much energy was making
cinnamon rolls. Now I don't mean the kind that come in a tube and you
crack it on the side of the counter to get the rolls out, I mean the
kind that start with sugar, flour and yeast. She would mix a bit and then
rest a moment, but she got them made.

When they were finished, she removed her oxygen, and with the aid of
Dave's arm for support, we walked across the street with the rolls and
gave them to the neighbors. I was amazed.

I do believe that if anyone is lucky enough to get a glimpse of God, in
the future, expect him to be about 20 pounds heavier because Linda's
baking and giving did not stop last Saturday.

Saturday...Janaury 29th...2011

2011-01-29T19:53:00.000-08:00

I promised to put in the Blog the comments by the 5 special friends of Linda's who spoke at the Celebration....here's Rhody's....

Linda's Celebration of Life

Linda was a very DEDICATED & DEVOTED wife, mother, grandmother,
daughter, sister, & friend, but she was also DEDICATED & DEVOTED to
things that she enjoyed doing.

Linda spent many fun years with we, her sisters in Beta Sigma Phi.
Once a sister in Beta Sigma Phi, you are a sister for life! Linda was
DEDICATED to our chapter, so she opened her home for socials. She
baked us yummy treats, taught us how to make crafts, & how to quilt.
She loved working on social & service projects with her sisters. I
remember many fun couple's socials at Dave & Linda's home.

Linda was also very DEDICATED & DEVOTED to her faith, & to their Wings
Seminars. Linda effectively applied those life skills from the Wings
Seminars, along with her faith, to soar through the fun times in her
life, but those skills also helped her weather through the tough
times, with her soul mate Dave, right by her side. She & Dave were
both DEDICATED & DEVOTED to love & support each other during some
incredibly tough times, that just seemed to bring the two of them
closer together.

Linda called on her faith, her family, & her friends, during her Lung
Cancer journey. She adopted the phrase, BELIEVE! That word not only
inspired Linda, it inspired others as well. I, along with many of you,
became DEDICATED & DEVOTED to reading Linda's blog. Before long it
became my own personal Wings Seminar! Somedays I would laugh at what I
read, & somedays I would cry, but I always learned something, &
occasionally was able to apply what I read to my own life.

Linda was also an OPTIMIST! She fought her Cancer the same way she
lived her life, with optimism, fun, style, & grace. Reading her blog,
& spending time with her, during these past 3 1/2 years, has impacted
me profoundly.

I grew to admire & be encouraged by Linda's OPTIMISM & found myself
always feeling happy after being with her & talking with her. I didn't
leave her feeling sad or drained, but rather I left her presence
feeling happy & blessed.

This past summer we had two special dinners with Linda's old Beta
Sigma Phi Sisters. One mid summer at Barb's, & one at the end of
summer at my home. We all laughed & ate & shared pictures & stories of
days gone by. There was no sadness, just dear friends having fun!

Then on Nov. 20th, we attended Dave & Linda's 30th Anniversary Party.
Wow! What a fun party her children threw! Linda had a perma grin all
evening & even danced a little, & smooched a little with Dave. There
was no sadness or somberness, just the optimistic Linda that loved her
husband, family, friends, & life!

Then in December, we 4 sorority sisters planned a pajama party &
dinner, & rode up the freeway to Linda's home in our new matching
pajamas. Linda immediately put the ones on that we brought her, & we
giggled, ate, & shared stories & pictures until really late. Again, no
sadness! Just Beta Sigma Phi sisters who loved each other, & 4 of us
that truely admired, & were inspired by Linda's optimism.

Even the evening before she passed away, as I sat holding her hand at
her bedside, in the hospital, Linda had some things she wanted to
share. I quickly told Linda to save her energy, & not to talk. Linda
persisted on sharing some of her special thoughts, & then she asked me
to pray with her. I prayed for several minutes, then raised my head.

She was wearing one her cute little caps on her head for warmth. The
blinds were partly closed, but it wasn't dark yet, so I could clearly
see Linda's face & eyes, in spite of her oxygen mask. Her eyes still
seemed so full of love & life, as I sat looking into them. I began
singing a little hymn to Linda.

I left her room that night feeling blessed for knowing such an
amazing, loving, giving, & optimistic, woman. God had given Linda a
real sense of inner peace. She hadn't wasted a minute of the past 3
1/2 year journey. She had prepared herself & her family well. She had
lived these past 3 1/2 years to the fullest, with OPTIMISM laughter, &
love, just like she had lived her entire life.

I feel so blessed to have been a very, very, small part of her journey
here on earth.

I love you Linda!

Friday...January 28th...2011

2011-01-28T19:02:00.000-08:00

A reflection of where I am at......

I have been asked many times how I am doing....I have not liked that question as I wasn't sure..now I am starting to focus on how I am feeling and doing...and I know tomorrow this may change.

I have worked on staying busy...and keeping things in the home in an orderly manner...knowing that letting up on this will create disorder and all that is not how I want to live....

Somewhere in the hugging and all I got a very nasty cold that has settled in my chest...I seem to fall asleep a lot so rest is what I need....

My fears around the finances are ones that I am addressing rather than avoiding ...it will be much easier when some sales occur and all but it is not something I spend a lot of time stressing over...

I am in a much different emotional state of being around Linda's death than where I thought I would be...initially I was in a state of despair..in fact this occurred immediately following the time when she said "enough"....and my focus was on myself....

In reflection, I have been proud of Linda..very very proud..she did it her way...didn't suffer..made decisions of how she wanted to live her life and I respect and admire her for that..perhaps it is this admiration that carries me forward...I am paying attention ....the though has been put forward that I have been grieving for a long time...maybe there is something to that...

I am being real..that is, I am checking in with myself to make sure I am not putting up facades and all...am I being real with all this...being vulnerable....being open to my feeling and all...I believe I am.

I have signed up for a Wings back up position for a seminar next week...Wings is a great place to get in touch with my feelings and be open to the moment....

I have been fed a lot of dinners and folks are making sure I am not alone much...I have had some very special time with a very special person and hope that continues...the kids have been great....

Tomorrow I begin the sharing by Linda's 5 special friends who spoke at the Celebration...good stuff...you will like it....

Finally thank you for the cards and cards and cards and good thoughts.....each was special...please accept this special thanks to you....

Keep the Blog comments going.....they are nurturing....

I am going where my heart leads me....Dave

Thursday....January 27th...2011

2011-01-27T21:18:00.000-08:00

This is part 4 and the last of the Eulogy for Linda from the 4 children...

Sometime during her sophomore year at St. Olaf, Mom went back to Nebraska to attend her cousins wedding. My father, from across the room at the reception, took one look at her and knew that they would someday be married. That very next day she told him that he was crazy, within a few moths, she told him “I Do”

They soon got married and started their life together in Lincoln. She gave birth to her first child on her twenty-first birthday, (ME). She would tell everyone that she became an adult the hard way, but in fact was blessed with a perfect child.

Soon after, her husband Richard, or dad as I liked to call him, graduated from college and they moved out to Oregon because it was important for Mom to be near her family.
She gave birth to a second son and we moved to a nice quiet town called Monmouth where we started a family business and she used her skills from the FHA to settle in to be the best mom a boy could ever have.

I remember the first day of school like it was yesterday. I was so excited I was ready to go four hours before sunrise. I soon discovered school wasn’t that great because Mom couldn’t go with me. I would run home when school was over because I couldn’t wait to see her. I would often pretend that I was sick so I could stay home to hang out with my mom, just her and I.

Everyone loved her, especially my friends. They lived at our house practically the whole summer probably because there was never a shortage of cookies lying around. Just so you know we got 3 at lunch, 2 after school, and 3 for dessert. She was always there to read you a story or put a band-aid on a skinned knee after we fell off our skateboards.

She put so many on my friend Alex’s knee he bought her a brand new box for Xmas to replace the ones she had administered.

We were a close family and would spend all of our free time together whether it was sitting around the house or on vacation in our motor home. When that wasn’t happening we would spend our time at Grandma’s house or with close friends. There wasn’t anything more important to Mom than family and friends.

In the Spring of 77, she was blessed with a daughter. She was so convinced that it was a girl that the nursery was painted pink and Dad’s cigars said “It’s a Girl”. She was such an amazing mom that God decided she needed one more, so nineteen months later Jonathan was born. It was a good thing our house had six bedrooms.

Life was good and you would never know it if it wasn’t. She always had an amazing smile and enough love to share with everyone. There wasn’t a single person that met her that did not think she was incredible, imagine being able to call her mom.

A little over a year after Jono was born, we were hit with the loss of our father in a private plane accident. She was single, 33, with four small children, and as a twelve year old boy, I wasn’t worried. My mom could do anything. I knew she could take care of our family which she continued on doing right up until she took her last breath.

Wednesday....January 26th...2011

2011-01-26T17:44:00.000-08:00

Part Three of Linda's Eulogy presented by her children...tomorrow the final part 4...then we have the stories from her 5 special friends...

In 1980 we moved to Salem to start another chapter of mom's life with a new husband Dave an two new daughters Wendy and Julie.

Mom became heavily involved in her sorority where she met several of her life long friends. I remember many times when her sisters and friends would come over to play games and leave Jim and myself to the upstairs to watch movies.

I also recall the party that Dave threw for mom's 40th birthday calling it her over the hill party. It was complete with balloons, gag gifts and everything being black.

During this time mother had found a love for building. Her first experience was in taking the lead in building our house in Salem. That in which lead to many rentals in the Salem area a vacation house in Sisters with her parents and on to a career and business in custom homes. Mom made her hobby and passion into a job. Mom was a strong woman, she learned fast playing in the male dominated world of construction but she always earned and received their respect.

In June of 1988 following my high school graduation we moved to Sisters Oregon where Dave had moved for six months prior for his job. Mom was always the one to not be selfish. It was in central Oregon where mom embarked on yet another journey of her life.

Tuesday....January 25th...2011

2011-01-25T22:35:00.000-08:00

Another portion of the Eulogy for Linda...2nd of 4 parts....

Thank you for coming here today to celebrate the life of the most amazing person I’ve ever met.

Whether you call her Mom, wife, sister, aunt, or friend, I think we all agree that the impact she had on us with her limited time on this earth has changed each of us forever.

Linda Lou Rasmussen Emken Wood.

I’d like to share some stories of my mother so you can fully understand who she was. Mom was born in Blair, Nebraska as the youngest child of four… all in five years. That’s a lot of baby raising! She was really close with her siblings, as you can imagine but I think they were a little bit jealous of how special she was.

You see, Mom grew up having this reoccurring nightmare that she was in some sort of box and was tumbling down a hill. One day she confided in my grandma, her mother, this story and Grandma laughed and said, “That wasn’t a nightmare, sweetie, your brothers put you in a baby buggie at the top of a hill and sent you shootin’ down it when you were a baby!” They might have been the first to realize, at that moment, that she was a force to be reckoned with.

Perhaps this was the beginning of her thirst for adventure. Mom was always up for a new adventure, even the scary ones. She was NOT a fear driven person, but rather set out with intention to conquer them. Some of my favorite memories with Mom include our many outings on the river or boating in Central Oregon’s lakes… even though she couldn’t swim and had a fear of water. But the memories that I will always hold dear, here, are our adventures on the roller coasters! I think that buggy ride may have started something, because she LOVED roller coasters.

A few years back, about a year into her cancer diagnosis , I had the amazing experience of spending an entire day at Busch Gardens in Florida with her on these rides. She was like a big kid! Her smile and excitement as the ride began was matched by no one else on the ride. My greatest thrill that day was watching her as the roller coaster, The Sheikra, would hang us on the edge of 10 story high straight drop down and watch her giggle with excitement before it would let us go. Oh, how she smiled and while I was clutching to the bar for dear life, she would scream with joy and let her arms raise up like it was a walk in the park.

Nothing scared that woman. Nothing. She raised me to be strong and independent, through example. To take care of myself through whatever challenges life threw at me. And she knew life challenges and pain. But she was stronger than most. I always loved the story of when she was attending St. Paul High School she was a cheerleader and the president of FHA. Do you know what FHA is? Future Homemakers of America. My mom was president! I don’t they have that club anymore. I always said she’d kick my butt if I ever joined a club called THE FUTURE HOMEMAKERS OF AMERICA.

I would always tease her by asking what kinds of things did they do in the FHA? Did they practice making pot roasts and the perfect inseam? She was proud of it though. Very proud. And she was the perfect homemaker, but she was SOOO much more than that. I always told people I had a stay-at-home mom who had fresh baked chocolate chip cookies on the counter everyday when I came home from school. The other kids were totally jealous, of course. Their moms didn’t make cookies.

It wasn’t until I was an adult that I truly realized she was so much more, how could I not see that as a kid? She was a landlady, and hard core… you didn’t mess with her, and instead of calling someone to fix every little thing that went wrong in her buildings, SHE fixed it. She learned how, and just did it. She was an active volunteer in the American Lung Cancer Association, a general contractor, a builder, a designer, a member of the Assistance Guild of Bend… helping others.

Helping others. This lady, as many of you know, didn’t have a negative bone in her body and she believed the BEST in everybody, even when they proved time and time again the opposite. I’ve never met anyone quite like that. She would bend over backwards to help anyone, even strangers.

My mom taught me many things in her time here on Earth, and although I hear from people how great their moms are and how they have the best mom ever, sorry… mine’s gotcha beat. We had the most amazing mother/daughter relationship I’ve ever seen or heard of. My mom was my best friend, and was the first person I’d call when something good, or bad happened.

She always listened to what I had to say and when she offered advice, it was non judgmental and in the kind of encouraging way that would ultimately lead me to make the decision and feel good about it. I sat with her in the hospital last week and told her how I couldn’t think of a single time in my life when I was mad at her, or a fight we’d had. Honestly, we were so alike in so much, I don’t think we ever did. Really, who can say that about their relationship with their mom? I can.

My mom showed me, and taught me, more patience than I probably deserved. I wasn’t always the easiest kid to raise, but she showed me love and trust. One time, in high school, I got home really late. Like 3 in the morning. I thought I’d snuck in and they wouldn’t notice. Shortly after my arrival, my mom opened the door to my room, stood at the door and very calmly said, “This is one your one get out of jail free card. You don’t have a curfew right now because I trust you, but if you come back this late again, things will change.” She smiled, turned around and left. The thought of disappointing my mom and not having her trust was more than I could bear and I never did it again.

I had a dream the other night. Tuesday actually. I was in the hospital again with my mom, but she was alive. And not only was she alive, but it was “pre cancer” Mom. She had her hair, and her winning smile and her eyes just lit the room. In my dream I was aware that she was gone, yet here she was, as vibrant as the four million memories I have of her. And she said, “I’m back!

But just for a bit. Is there anything you need to say to me before I go again?” I was so excited as I rushed to her side, held her hand and said, “Oh yes!! I… I…” and I racked my brain for things that I wanted to tell her that I didn’t get a chance to say before she went to Heaven. And nothing came. Wow. When I woke up I realized that my mom had given me the greatest gift ever… a chance to be with her, stare into those beautiful blue eyes, to tell her everything I wanted to, needed to, before she went to God. She gave me that. No other gift I ever get in my entire life will be as precious as that gift is. Nothing.

And so, Mom’s last great roller coaster ride, Cancer, came to an end last Saturday. Just like the Sheikra, she took this one with amazing grace. The ups, the downs, the blind corners, the unexpected drops, she sat in the front row and was present the entire time. The emotions were all the same. There was joy, pleasure, a little bit of fear, but also the belief that at the end of the ride… she’d be okay. And when that roller coaster had its last dip… the steepest of all, it came to a halt at Heaven’s gates and gracefully, I know my mom got off the ride and was greeted by those who went before her, those she loved so much. They’d been watching from the side of the ride this whole time, and they took her hand and welcomed her home.

So, welcome home Mom. Your energy, your wisdom, your hugs and love, your cookies, your stories, your help, advice, your positivity and your presence…. Will be missed greatly by all, but especially me. I will see you again someday when my roller coaster comes to a stop. I know you’ll be there, and it will be a beautiful reunion. I love you.

Monday...January 24th..2011

2011-01-24T21:36:00.000-08:00

At the Celebration of Linda, there were 4 parts to her Eulogy prepared and spoken by each of the 4 children...Jim, Wendy, Jeff and Janine....for the next 4 nights I plan on reprinting the parts one at a time....it's not important who wrote which part....

Linda

It is hard to describe someone you love in 3 to 5 minutes so that someone listening can really understand her. You all knew Linda, in many different ways – I hope to share about her today in a way that lets you see her. She married my dad when I was 11, and was truly my other mom. When I was thinking of how I feel and think about Linda, and how to write a eulogy about her, I thought of the Wife of Noble Character in the Bible. This passage of scripture really applies to her in so many ways and in ways I can only hope to emulate some day. I want to read that to you now and I want you to think of Linda while I’m reading it.

Proverbs 31:10-31

A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants.
She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her; ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

What I find noble about Linda:

She was a true partner for my dad. They did so much together and never did we hear either say anything negative about the other. They loved to travel, work, play and plan together. I shared at their 30th anniversary party on Nov 20, 2010 how I look to them as an example in many of these areas in my own marriage.

Linda was a hard worker – I never got it when I was kid why she couldn’t just sit and watch a movie with me – she was getting things done, not idle – now I understand since I have my own household to run, and only one kid to keep up with – it’s hard to sit and watch a whole movie and miss those two hours of getting things done that need to be done. She was busy outside the home with her work as well. She was a business woman, sometimes literally buying a field and developing it. She didn’t have a college degree or an 8 to 5 job but made her way in this world with a keen business sense and her work was profitable.

Linda was a very giving person, always donating to different causes, at church or different causes I was raising money for. She loved to sew. I can remember being a teenager and she sewed me a Gunnysack dress. I loved it – white and blue, soft colors, very whimsical, ruffles and ribbons. She sewed my wedding dress. It took her such a long time to add every single bead, but she did it because she loved me and I wanted the beading. That wedding dress will go to my daughter some day and I hope she’ll want to wear it. She sewed my baby’s first quilt, which my daughter values and takes good care of.

She was a faithful woman, always keeping her faith in God no matter what life sent in her direction. Not long ago, she told me she always felt like somewhat of a Job, first losing her first husband, then her father and youngest son in the same year. Even with cancer, she remained faithful. I appreciate her influence on me in this area of my life. One of the ways I feel close to God is through song. Anyone that has been in a church service with Linda will know that she loved to sing hymns and songs of praise. You could not help but hear her beautiful voice from any pew as she sang so whole-heartedly and didn’t hold anything back. 

Linda has two grandchildren, Jillian, 13 and Taigen, 6 (both have promised to never be terrible teens!). Jillian is the daughter of my brother Jim and Taigen is my daughter. I remember how much Linda loved becoming a grandmother. She spent time with Jillian right after she was born, lending a loving hand to Jillian’s mom Julie and the newborn. One of the memories I and the girls each have is baking with Linda. Her chocolate chip cookies were frequently baked and many have enjoyed them through the years. The recipe is out in the fellowship hall on note cards for anyone who would like to carry on the tradition.

Linda has played a big role in both of the girls’ lives. She wanted them both to have memories with her – some that stick out for me are her and my dad taking Jillian to Alaska for niece Laura’s wedding to be the flower girl when she was 3 to the most recent trip to Victoria, Canada last summer. With Taigen, it has to be the trips to Florida to visit grandma and grandpa. We went to Busch Gardens last year and although Linda didn’t have a lot of physical strength at the time, we had a memorable day. When Taigen was tired, she could climb in Grandma’s lap and ride in the wheelchair with her. I will never forget that wheelchair with Linda sitting in it with both of her feet on the one foot pedal that was left on the chair and Taigen on her lap. We also did a family ‘camping’ trip these past two summers with my husband Chris, Taigen, grandma and grandpa, Jillian and Janine. I put in the quotes because while Janine and Chris, Taigen and I were in our tents respectively, grandma and grandpa were in the 5-star RV. But how cool that even last Labor Day weekend Linda could go camping.

I’m so grateful we had Christmas at her house last month as she loves Christmas and it made a most special memory to be with her another Christmas. I thanked her last week for being such a great grandma and she told me it was deliberate as it was very important to her. Family was important to her. Linda had a positive attitude, even to the end of her life. She freely gave smiles and warm words of encouragement to everyone. She demonstrated strength and dignity even in the face of trials, even death. I was so grateful to be able to see her last week and let her know how much she means to me and my family.

I will always be grateful for what she has taught me, her love and acceptance of me and my family and for her love and partnership with my dad.

Sunday....January 23rd....2011

2011-01-23T21:59:00.000-08:00

Dave donated $500 in Linda's name to the Oregon Cancer Ski Out Bingo fundraiser night tonight.....and bought 1 bingo card for each of 6 rounds and won "squat"...oh well, who needs another Tshirt.....

Sunday...January 23rd...2011

2011-01-23T16:15:00.001-08:00

Sunday....January 23rd...2011

2011-01-23T16:11:00.001-08:00

Mom’s (Linda's) Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 ½ c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
I c. granulated sugar
3 ½ c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
12 oz. chocolate chips

Mix all of the ingredients together and drop by teaspoons onto a cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes or until light brown

Sunday...January 23rd...2011

2011-01-23T16:07:00.000-08:00

Dave and Linda's Marital Commitments to each other... followed by their song.....

We are one

We commit ourselves to creating a safe environment within our relationship where we can exist in open and honest disclosure.

We commit ourselves to share our truths and to listen to each other with an open heart and without judgment.

We commit ourselves to getting below the surface and sharing our really deep feelings and dreams.

We commit ourselves to celebrating our differences as they are an asset to our relationship.

We commit ourselves to seeking and reaching compromise when at cross purposes, recognizing that the feelings underneath are the same.

We commit ourselves to having peace around Jonathan’s death and in keeping his memories alive in our hearts.

Dave and Linda Wood

Time After Time
Placido Domingo

Time after Time
I tell myself that I'm
So lucky to be loving you
So lucky to be the one you run to see
In the evening, when the day is through
I only know, what I know
the passing years will show
you kept my love so young
so new
and Time after Time
You'll hear me say that I'm
So lucky, to be loving you

Sunday...January 23rd...2011

2011-01-23T16:05:00.000-08:00

Linda's Winning In Life Statements..

Winning in life to me is

Feeling at home with who I am.

Feeling free to share my innermost feelings with others.

Looking inside for what I want and going for it.

Winning in life to me is

Accepting myself and others.

Taking ownership of the power that has always been within me.

Committing myself to creating a warm, open environment in which to exist with my family.

Winning in life to me is

Being outfocused and a quiet listener.

Risking myself to be all that I can.

Loving myself and others unconditionally.

Sunday...January 23rd...2011

2011-01-23T16:04:00.000-08:00

Linda Wood’s Nature Paragraph

I am a flower…
I come in many colors and facets…
I stand up tall and brave the elements…
Occasionally I close my petals in…
When the sun comes back out…
I open up again…
The universe gives me nourishment…
And I provide its beauty…

sunday....Janaury 23rd .....2011

2011-01-23T16:01:00.000-08:00

Linda's Wings Crossover personal contract and song...

I am an open, powerful and courageous woman

Maureen McGovern - I Could Have Been a Sailor

I'm a happy woman

I made my choice in life

I chose to settle down

I chose to be a wife

And I take pleasure in my quiet hearth

And happy home

I never gave my heart

Its chance to roam

I could have been a sailor

And sailed the seven seas

The wind in my face all day

Can you taste the salty breeze?

I could have been a lover

Watchin' waves before me part

But I settled for safer harbors

Of my heart

I'm a lucky woman

I'm the envy of my peers

Never ask for favors

And I never show my fears

Surrounded by too many friends

I am a one-man band

With all the trappings of

A life lived second-hand

I could have been a sailor

Rollin' through the night

My sails before the wind

And the stars my only light

I could have been a dreamer

But dreams just fall apart

So, I settled for safer harbors

Of my heart

And I take pleasure in my quiet hearth

And happy home

I never gave my heart

A chance to roam

I could have been a sailor

And sailed the seven seas

The wind in my face all day

Can you taste the salty breeze?

I could have been a dreamer

But dreams just fall apart

So, I settled for safer harbors

Of my heart

I settled for safer harbors

Of my heart

Sunday...January 23rd..2011

2011-01-23T15:54:00.000-08:00

If you were unable to attend the celebration of Linda, I have posted the program below..special thanks to our children Jim, Wendy, Jeff and Janine for their incredible Eulogy of their Mother and their sharing of their Mother's Wings journey...Special thanks to Linda's dear friends, Judy, Claudia, Maureen, Mary and Rhody for their special memories of Linda....to Pastor Steve for his message and being the "glue", to Linda's siblings Karen and Marlin for their parts and a special special thanks to Hazel and Gail for their musical tributes which the likes of the Lutherans have not seen and left everyone raising their hands in paraise...wow..wow...wow... and to the 300 or 400 people attending this Celebration for this special lady.....thank you so much ..all of you...for your parts in making this so special....

Celebration of Linda

Today’s Program

Welcome and Opening Prayer ~ Pastor: Steve

Eulogy ~ Children: Jim, Jeff, Janine and Wendy

Sharing ~ Friends: Claudia, Judy, Mary, Maureen, and Rhody

Worship ~ Pastor: Steve

Scripture ~ Sister: Karen

Song ’I’ll Fly Away’ ~ Friend: Hazel

Prayer ~ Pastor: Steve

Introduction and Reading of Linda’s Personal Contract

Song ‘I Could Have Been a Sailor’

Introduction and Reading of Linda’s Nature Paragraph

Introduction and Reading of Linda’s Winning in Life Statement

Introduction and Reading of Dave and Linda’s Marital Commitment to Each Other

Song ‘Time After Time’

Testimonial and Closing Prayer ~ Brother: Marlin

Invitation to the Gathering ~ Granddaughters: Jillian and Taigen

Song ‘Amazing Grace’ ~ Congregation

Sunday....Janaury 23rd...2011

2011-01-23T15:50:00.000-08:00

People wanting to buy the book published on the many faces and expressions of Linda, entitled LINDA can order the book at www.mixbook.com/photo-books/family/linda-lou-5141059

Sunday....January 23rd...2011

2011-01-23T15:47:00.000-08:00

I plan on a series of posts covered important things around the Celebration yesterday, etc...so read all....this is the first one....

IN REMEMBRANCE OF LINDA WOOD

In lieu of flowers Linda would appreciate donations being made to the WINGS seminars scholarship fund. This fund is used to support people in attending the Personal Effectiveness Seminar and True Colors Teen Seminar. Please use the first form below to donate to the WINGS seminars scholarship fund. You will have an opportunity to include a message to Linda's family in the comments section on the payment page.

Web Site for donations http://www.wings-seminars.com/linda-wood/

Sunday....January 23rd....2011

2011-01-23T00:22:00.000-08:00

It's late...the last of the talking is over...now for some rest...tomorrow this blog will have much more...as there is more to share and to..and to...

Just to say it was an incredible Celebration of Linda today.....the place was packed...the eulogy by the children was wonderful...the friends of Linda spoke very well of her...the music was incredible....the sharing of Linda's Wing's processes were very insightful..etc..etc...

The family gathered for a pot luck tonight and shared more.....

As I say tomorrow will bring more..with some pictures also...good night.....good night sweet Linda......I love you......

Friday....January 21st...2011

2011-01-21T23:34:00.000-08:00

Friday....January 21st.....2011

2011-01-21T16:40:00.000-08:00

We're ready for tomorrow...the Celebration of Linda....we will do her right...as they say.....I look forward to it...

With daughter in law Jenn's help, we've put together a book of pictures of Linda...anyone can order a copy...whether they are at the Celebration or not...I will post the information as soon as I have it....it is spectacular....

Thank you for the cards, calls and Facebook comments..they are all very helpful and supportive....

Tonight the family will meet after dinner to reminisce...I have a process to connect with Linda's image which I will share the results on this BLOG later....tomorrow night we have a family dinner planned before folks start heading back to their homes.....

The programs are spectacular thanks to daughter Wendy....i will publish on the BLOG by separate posting....

ps..Linda has come back to us with the help of Chad, our daughter in law Jenn's step father...he handled the cremation.....the "Emken " children (Jim, Jeff and Janine) will be spreading 1/4th of their Mother's ashes to represent the 10 years of marriage to Richard Emken and 4 children.....Linda's family of 30 years of marriage to Dave will spread 3/4th of Linda's ashes....at a lake in the wilderness where we hiked with the children when they were young and camped....of course we have to wait til the snow leaves....

Thursday...January 20, 2011

2011-01-21T00:19:00.000-08:00

Wednesday....Janaury 19th...2011

2011-01-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

We are preparing for the Celebration...the programs are being printed (right next to me by daughter Wendy)..it is 12 pages!!!!!....I told you things would be different...with a color picture of Linda of course...
.
Wendy and Janine have the food scoped out for the Gathering ...they are picking everything up Friday....

Jim has the audiovisual stuff figured out...

The siblings have the Eulogy put together.....the five friends of Linda have their part figured out individually and Friday they rehearse....

The music is being put together right now by me......

I took time tonight to have dinner with dear friend Claudia....the Widower met with the Widow....(we call ourselves the "Widower Man" and the "Widow Woman")...she is of great counsel to me in these trying times....as she was with Linda and I when Linda was going through her Journey.....

Tomorrow my Brother and his family arrive from Anchorage.....Linda's Bridesmaid Mary is flying back here tomorrow......Friday many coming in for support..thank you all for the time and expense to support Linda..she was special and so are you...and you....and you..

Daughter in law Jenn, in addition to doing the obituaries for the newspaper, has worked with me (I just identified the pictures) and created a book of pictures of Linda...an amazing assortment in book form allowing folks to see the many faces of this amazing woman....application forms will be available at the Celebration and folks can order their copies directly from the publisher on line....really cool!!!!!

Tuesday...January 18th...2011

2011-01-18T21:19:00.000-08:00

Busy day again today..getting things organized for Saturday's Celebration of Linda...I am so excited that we will be able to do things Linda wanted..I assure you it will be different from anything you've been to.......see you there....

Monday....January 17th...2011

2011-01-17T20:53:00.000-08:00

Zion Lutheran Church...Newberg....Oregon

DIRECTIONS

The church is located in the vicinity of downtown Newberg, three blocks south of 99W at 301 S River St, near Hoover Park. Coming from Dundee on 99W, go through downtown Newberg and turn right on S River St. If you're coming from Sherwood on 99W, turn left on S River St just before entering the downtown area.

http://www.newbergzion.com/

Monday....January 17th...2011

2011-01-17T20:34:00.000-08:00

Showcase Of Flowers
215 Villa Rd.

Newberg OR 97132
(503) 538-4311
(800) 606-5075

http://www.showcaseofflowers.com/

IN REMEMBRANCE OF LINDA WOOD

In lieu of flowers Linda would appreciate donations being made to the WINGS seminars scholarship fund. This fund is used to support people in attending the Personal Effectiveness Seminar and True Colors Teen Seminar. Please use the form on the web site below to donate to the WINGS seminars scholarship fund. You will have an opportunity to include a message to Linda's family in the comments section on the payment page.

Web Site for donations http://www.wings-seminars.com/linda-wood/

Monday....January 17th...2011

2011-01-17T20:27:00.000-08:00

Linda was an open, powerful, & courageous woman. Surrounded by her loved ones, Linda Lou Wood passed away peacefully on January 15, 2011. She was 64.

Linda Lou Rasmussen Emken Wood was born on March 13, 1946 in Blair, Nebraska to John & Maxine Rasmussen. She spent most of her childhood on a dairy farm outside of St. Paul, OR where she attended High School at St. Paul & Newberg. She was a cheerleader & president of the FHA. Linda went to college at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. On a trip to a family wedding in Nebraska, Linda met her 1st husband Richard Emken. They traveled back to Oregon were they raised their four children in the Monmouth area. After losing her first husband in 1978, Linda moved to Salem to start the next chapter of her life.

In the spring of 1980, Linda met her soul mate David Wood. They fell in love and were married on November 20th of the same year. Linda & Dave eventually moved to the Bend area where they started Central Oregon Custom Homes & Legend’s Publick House, while Dave continued to work for The Oregon Education Association. Linda & Dave enjoyed working closely with WINGS seminars, Champ Cup Open Wheel Racing and spending time at their 2nd home in Land O’Lakes, Florida. They loved to travel and experience new adventures together. After battling cancer for a few years, Linda & Dave moved to the Canby area so they could be closer to family & friends.

Linda loved to bake!! She was known for her cookies & other treats. Linda loved to read & play cards. She was a tremendous friend to many. Her smile could light up a room. She loved to spend time with her family, especially her two grandchildren who were very near and dear to her heart.

Linda is survived by her husband David Wood of Canby; sister, Karen Meuchel of Brooks, brothers, Marlin Rasmussen of St. Paul, Norman Rasmussen of Salem: Children, James Emken of West Linn, Jeff Emken of Bend, Janine Emken of Tualatin, Wendy Soethe of Seattle & Juli Walton of Bend; Grandchildren, Jillian Emken & Taigen Soethe, and her dog, Sadie. She was preceded in death by her 4th son Jonathan Emken Wood.

We invite you to join us at the Celebration of Linda on January 22nd, 2011 at 1:00pm at Zion Lutheran Church, 301 South River Street, Newberg, OR 97321.

In lieu of flowers Linda would appreciate donations being made to the WINGS seminars scholarship fund in her name at www.wings-seminars.com/linda-wood.

For more information about Linda’s extraordinary journey please go to www.linda-lou.blogspot.com

Sunday...January 16th..2011

2011-01-16T22:37:00.000-08:00

The CELEBRATION OF LINDA will be Saturday...January 22nd at 1 pm....at the Zion Lutheran Church in Newberg Oregon.....301 S River Street.....

With the help of Pastor Steve Estrem , Janine and Dave were able to put a program together that reflected the wishes Dave and Linda had discussed several times.....

Following the Celebration Of Linda, a GATHERING will take place in the Fellowship Hall where refreshments will be served as well as pictures of Linda....folks will be able to put an order in for a picture book of our favorite photos of Linda as well as seeing some favorite things of Linda...

This event has a money back guarantee...it will not be something to miss....

Tonight Daughters Wendy and Janine, son in law Chris, daughter in law Jenn, son Jim, grand daughters Jillian and Taigen, brother in law Marlin and sister in law Joni, joined for dinner, provided by special friends Ginnie and Nancy (who we are very grateful to). We took time around the table to say one word that came to our mind when thinking of Linda and the past three days...the words were:

CONNECTION

LOVE

FAMILY

COMPLETION

SAD

PEACEFUL

PEACE

MOM

THANKFUL

GRATEFUL

Linda's special friend Mary and her daughter came over with gifts for the next day and Mary, who was with Linda when Dave really connected for the first time and was Linda's Brides Maid came after dinner...Mary and Dave each took time to tell their side of the story as to what went on when the connection took place between Dave and Linda....Mary's story was quite embellished while Dave's story was straightforward and with out any exaggerations etc...Dave can say this because he gets to write the BLOG...actually the jury..ie members at the table scored it a tie between the stories with several pluses and several minuses, where they felt the truth was being stretched...it was fun...

Each family member and friend has a responsibility for the Celebration.....so it is a shared responsibility...

Please spread the word about the Celebration a there are still folks unable to read...or so we think....

Saturday...January 15th...2011 4:35

2011-01-15T16:36:00.000-08:00

Most everyone has gone...Wendy, Chris and Taigen are here...

Tomorrow I meet with the Minister of the church in Newberg that Linda's parents went to and supported....Linda wanted her Memorial there if things worked out...

What Linda and I discussed many times that we want is an upbeat two part Celebration for this very unique woman. The first part we want is that it be in the Sanctuary...and that our Minister from the Bend Church Linda attended (and I on select days) lead this part...and that it include Linda's favorite hymn "Amazing Grace"..maybe sung by a special friend who admired Linda. We would like for the children of ours to read the eulogy together and in parts..of what Linda/Mother meant to them....and then special friends selected to speak to qualities of this woman and how it impacted the world.....and some appropriate scripture.

The second part we might do in the Fellowship Hall.....we shall see.....we would like to see the Head of Wings lead this part and that it include the sharing of Linda's personal life long contract...that it include sharing Linda's "Winning in Life" statements....that it include our Listening Heart Commitment to each other...that Linda's personal song given to her be played...that our Listening heart Couples song be played...that "The Dance by Garth Brooks be played...and that we all sing a song together (I have a couple in mind)....and that we are led in a Closed Eye Guided Imagery process where Linda tells us good bye and not to worry...she is in a better place.

I have been collecting some really neat pictures of Linda..it is not important when or where the picture was taken..it about seeing the many faces of Linda and taking them in...that these be published in a book for people to see and they have the opportunity to purchase one thru Costco or where ever...

And then a sharing a a healthy meal celebrating our special friend.

The When and Where will be published on the BLOG as well as obituaries in the Portland, Newberg, Bend and Salem news papers.....

I do want you to know how things went today..briefly...I alerted everyone very early to come...individuals, couples and families each had time to be with Linda...she did not speak. After all were finished...I went in alone...held her hand and talked to her...kissed her....she started to become cold in her hands...took two small breaths and was then gone.....no pain..no suffering...we then all went into the room......gathered around her and prayed......it was very very special.....then it was over...

Saturday....January 15th...2011.....9:30 am

2011-01-15T09:25:00.000-08:00

Linda's Journey on earth is about complete........

It will be a while before I post again.....

I sincerely thank each and everyone of you for your incredible words of love and support for Linda...and she thrived on those words.....it was a big part of her healing....and wholeness...

Saturday....January 15th...4 am...2011

2011-01-15T04:10:00.000-08:00

Perhaps "Linda's Journey" is coming closer to an end...or just beginning elsewhere.....

Linda's respirations are about 6 per minute.....normally one takes about 12 breaths per minute....which the nurses say is the system starting to shut down....the pulse is till high which means her heart is still working hard...it always does....and the nurses say this will start to drop....

The above feels almost "clinical"...whatever that means....to me it means I am going to lose my dear friend and lover and...and....and I am so sad...and yet I am somewhat comforted by knowing she won't be suffering much longer. And I know...even though I slept a lot during the night...I am tired and.......

Friday....January 14th...10 pm .....2011

2011-01-14T22:11:00.000-08:00

Linda is resting peacefully....her numbers are good...what a difference a day makes....the difference with "comfort care" vs struggling to breathe...respiratory distress.

Dave has met with the Hospice folks...Linda will remain in the hospital and cared for by the hospital this weekend...Monday (if she is still with us), she will be transferred to a Hospice "house" to complete her journey under the care of Hospice....Linda has expressed that she does not need to be taken home to die....and that is good.

Linda will be an organ donor to the Lions Eye Bank...the process is in place for this to happen.....

Linda will be cremated and her ashes split between her first marriage (her husband passed away in an accident) and her second marriage to Dave....the first set of ashes will be spread by her children among the graves of her husband and son...the second set of ashes will be spread by her family and friends in nature at a place of beauty and a place she will be remembered....we have ideas in place.

A memorial celebration of life will be held with a religious and a spiritual part...Linda and Dave have been working on this and it will be something not to miss..more later....

Today many friends and family visited with Linda..many flew in more coming in tomorrow...her grand children are present ....her siblings are here...many of her friends are here...nieces, nephews..etc..e.tc...the visits were small at a time and quiet with touching of this precious woman...

Linda is sleeping as this is written...a woman in peace....and peaceful....the struggle is over....

Friday....January 14th...2011

2011-01-14T09:17:00.000-08:00

Linda made the decision today to discontinue treatment....the fight was one she was losing and the Doctor said the counts were going against her.....the antibiotics were not going to beat the pneumonia but slow it down...

Linda had a horrible night....struggling to breathe..and was wanting to be done with it.....

She is clear and at peace with her decision....

What now?

All treatment will cease ..no more antibiotics.....

Linda is getting a drip flow of morphine continuously now for comfort.....comfort is the key....

Hospice will be notified and involved....if this continues for a couple of days, Linda might be sent home...although she has made it clear that going home is not important...she just wants to be at peace.....

Visitors today will find a much different day than yesterday...the Doctor said Linda would not see another day like yesterday...each moment from now on will be different. We are limiting visitors to 2 or 3 at a time...much quieter with comforting words to Linda..not needing a response...visitors do not have to worry about a cold or..or..it doesn't matter now..

The Doctor was wonderful...involving Linda..listening to her needs...and as sad as it is, Linda made the right choice..to be at peace....

Fridaqy...January 14th..6:45 am...2011

2011-01-14T06:46:00.000-08:00

They are cutting the time in the sequence of the morphine that provides comfort..the cycles during the night were too far apart resulting in extreme discomfort for Linda....Linda is no longer gasping and struggling..more calm...

Linda feels the "caring" with this new approach...folks trying to stay on top of it for Linda...

Linda is actually breathing out her nose as opposed to open mouth gasping...what a relief....

Friday...Janaury 14th...6 am...2011

2011-01-14T05:57:00.000-08:00

Linda continues to struggle....tough night.....very hard on her body....her numbers are back up with O2 at 95/94%...her pulse is down to 135 (and up and down) which is still very high but not in the upper 150's like at times during the night....

They continue to give her antibiotics to fight the pneumonia...as well as morphine continuously for comfort....and having said that, Linda is struggling....

This is not what she wants....and we are going to discuss..are we still fighting to win (ie beat the pneumonia) or prolonging things....if the latter then we want the "comfort" "upped".....we will discuss when the doctor comes around today....

We have discussed visitors today....we discussed this with the nursing staff too...we are going to keep the numbers in the room at a time down with everyone else down the hall...trying to keep the noise down....and we are asking folks to be more quiet and not engaging Linda in terms of responses as she is working to use all her energy to fight right now...engagement would be more of comforting words and quiet touching etc etc...the nurses endorsed this approach....as the best we can all be for Linda...and it allows folks to support each other....and rotate in and out....

As a final...Linda has suddenly calmed a lot..the results of the latest morphine most likely..her breathing is calming...as opposed to hours of gasping...and sweating and..and.... Linda and I just looked at each other..I said "WOW"..she said "GOOD".....maybe the race and the pace has slowed a bit...maybe now she can sleep ...and get the rest her body desperately deserves and needs...

Friday....January 14th...2:30 am...2011

2011-01-14T02:31:00.000-08:00

Linda continues to struggle..but not as bad...her O2 % is 91..but the pulse is still high..but lower than earlier...they have given her two administrations of morphine and a respiratory therapy in trying to ease her efforts...she is responding a bit....

What started out looking like a night's sleep went haywire..hopefully she will fall asleep soon and then I'm right behind her....

She really doesn't like this state of being and quality of life she is in right now....we've yet to see a doctor this evening...my sense is the program is laid out....keep the antibiotics going...keep the oxygen going..either the pneumonia gives or Linda's body gives....there will be a victor....

Friday....January 14th.....12:50...20111

2011-01-14T00:49:00.000-08:00

They just gave Linda some interveinous morphine to try to slow her down....breathing like a freight train.....pulse elevated..they think this will slow her down....more in a half hour if needed...

Friday...January 14th...Midnight...2011

2011-01-13T23:59:00.000-08:00

How come.....when you settle down...the nurse comes in to check things out...then you settle down ....and then a new nurse comes in and announces there is a shift change and she is the new nurse and repeats what the other nurse did...

Mrs. Wood seems to be settling down....very restless....needed her suction...which of course was on the floor....then the wrapper.....also on the floor.....

Then Wendy left her Wheat Thins over my objections..and me with no will power....ate the whole box...without breathing...and upon reflection remembered I got hooked up with Linda in the first place because I had no will power...Linda and Wheat Thins have a lot in common....

How come they hold a debate session outside your door at midnight?

Linda doesn't think her quality of life right now is really that hot..thinks maybe she might just go while in the hospital...today she figured out everyone would be ok.....except me....and it's too late to do anything about me....

I really want a diet coke but they are on to us and I have to wait one more shift change to go across the hall to snag one....if I were at Meridian Park Hospital down the road, my friendly nurse friends from days past would take care of me....they were the ones who declared diet coke a clear liquid for a clear liquid diet..much to my delight....

Thursday...January 13th...2011

2011-01-13T23:22:00.000-08:00

The first BLOG........Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Today and How we Got Here

About eight weeks ago, Linda started a hacky cough. We didn't think much of it as there seemed to be something going around.....there was a lot of coughing. As it continued, she attributed it to allergies...lot of plants start late here in Central Oregon. So Linda continued acting as if it wasn't a big deal..in fact the coughing was all the symptoms exhibited. We went to the Beach for two weeks...worked a Champ Car event in Portland and camped in Camp Sherman in the Metolius area with her Brother Marlin and Sister in Law Joanie.

One day Linda decided to have the cough looked at and scheduled an appointment with a lung physician at the medical clinic in Bend, Oregon. This was June 11th. 15 minutes before the appointment, the Clinic called to say the doctor was ill. Linda then went in and saw a physician's aide who had an Xray done and said he thought it was pneumonia. He gave her antibiotics and cough medication.

The following Monday ...the 18th, she called in and said she had joint aches and swelling...also the cough medicine was ineffective and she still had the original symptoms.....the Clinic referred her to a kidney physician as these signs were of kidney problems....having been on vioxx for her back was a concern earlier as to kidney difficulties.

The kidney physician met with her that same day and was very concerned about the original Xray and wanted a Cat scan done..which was scheduled for Friday the 22nd. She saw the doctor in the hall after the scan and she indicated to him that she wanted to know the results even if it meant calling her....he said "even if it's bad news"...she said "yes".

Of course that set off our imaginations...worse case scenarios....by the time Saturday rolled around, I had already imagined myself as a widower.....I was clearly "reading the last chapter of the novel first"...and the story had the possibility of many different endings. Linda's emotions were all over the place.

On Sunday we received the call...lung cancer.

We cried.....we were strong....we were all over the place....it was very much a roller coaster ride.

The physician assured us he would do some "arm twisting" to get her a Pulmonologist (a lung doctor)......so of course we expected Linda to be rushed right in Monday morning and get going with the cures.

Sadly Linda's appointment is not until Tuesday the 3rd of July. Many calls..many efforts to have the next test done right away were unsuccessful...they have a way they want to do it and that's the way it will be.

What we have learned is that Linda will meet with the doctor and he will then schedule a test based on what he sees from the cat scan and meeting with her.....One test is done in the hospital and involves a biopsy...we think it involves a surgery. The other test is an outpatient involving a needle biopsy.....more than that we don't know..about the particulars.

What the biopsy is supposed to do is provide a road map as to the type of cancer and the course of action. We are so anxious to get to that point...

Right now Linda has two symptoms..cough and no energy...she has moments of normalcy but lots of tiredness...I'm trying to get her to take naps..sleep in..etc etc. She has no appetite...slimfasts every couple of hours has been helpful.

Son Jim came from Portland with granddaughter number 1.....Jillian........to visit overnight...son Jeff came over from Bend and spent the night also....clearly it was a blessing and gave much energy to Linda...Jim said she looked 5 years older when he walked in...the next day she looked herself.

Her cousin, Ron, a doctor in Eugene offered her much insight and information which gave her hope and much peace of mind.

Many, many people..friends..acquaintances...etc etc have called and sent emails..so many in fact that I decided to do this Linda Blog .... a place folks could turn to for information and updates on Linda.....a comments section is also provided and encouraged...she will read them as she is able.

Thank you for your support and prayers..there are prayer chains all over the U.S. for her...we thank you for that. Hopefully this Blog will also provide a map for others who may unfortunately follow this path ....

Linda is strong and determined..none of this remission..but rather a cure is her goal...and we all know she sets a intention and makes it happen.

Dave

Thursday....January 13th....10:30 opm...2011

2011-01-13T22:34:00.001-08:00

Linda is having a hard time settling down...one can hear it in her breathing....she needs to quit worrying about this and that....I think it's just that she is really tired..and gets awaken a lot...and it was a very "people busy" way....

Tomorrow we are changing things a bit..folks that want to talk will go to the end of the hall...few people in the room at a time being in a quiet state with Linda so they can feel her healing and she has a chance to heal....

The breathing has quieted a bit..hopefully she will sleep soon...she is not operating with much of a margin ...although at 93%...keep up the healing work Linda.....

Thursday...January 13th...7:30 pm...2011

2011-01-13T19:26:00.000-08:00

Many many visitors today.....family members from everywhere and close friends.......to offer their love and support for Linda.....and Linda took it all in and recognizes she doesn't need to worry....all will be ok....

Linda received 2 liters of blood to help with the O2 saturation in the blood....she also has continued to receive antibiotics for the pneumonia....again, she is critically ill.

The Doctor spoke to us and explained what was going on with Linda and the outlook.....the danger is the O2 percentage dropping to a point where the body shuts down....this is caused by the advanced lung cancer and pneumonia.....inhibiting the lungs from working properly and thereby causing the drop in oxygen concentration. ...this could happen at any time....or might not happen if the pneumonia is stopped.

At this point, the oxygen concentration is at 94%..good news....

What can we say about the "masses" of visitors...good but tiring....the love was there....and Linda felt it.

Dave felt the potential loss of his incredible close loving wife today....like a very hard hit to the chest....it was a very emotional day...tonight getting to spend a little quiet one on one time with Linda helps....

If Linda rallies and turns the corner on this thing she can eventually return home and will probably enter Hospice care...if she does not and things worsen, Hospice is here at the hospital so they will take over here....

We shall see....

Thursday....January 13th....7:30am....2011

2011-01-13T07:28:00.000-08:00

Linda is sound asleep..after ordering a big breakfast coming at 8 am...go figure.....she said it is her best meal of the day...so that is a good sign she plans on eating...

Again, it looks like the O2 issue might be resolved....at least for now.....we were told this morning she was at 60% coming into the ER last night...ouch....

The meds are still coming and coming for the pneumonia so we are not out of the woods by any means.....the palliative care doctor last week had warned us about pneumonia....

Calvary is coming.......Linda's brother Marlin and sister in law Joni are loading on a plane out of Yuma, Arizona right now, heading this way.....Son Jim and daughter in law Jenn have caught an early flight from Phoenix and on their way.....friend Mary is ready to load in Burbank, California heading here......daughter Wendy is driving down later this morning from Seattle....

About 8 am I think I will go home and brush my teeth and let the dog out...poor Sadie....she has been close to Linda all the way (stays on the bed all day)..she must have felt lost last night with Linda gone...

Linda and I talked this morning and wondered by she wasn't in ICU.....then Duh.....we remembered what the Doctor said about the advanced directive and all....no ICU would be needed.....makes sense now.....

Thursday....January 13th...5:40 am..2011

2011-01-13T05:39:00.000-08:00

Linda just got more blood draws....for blood counts so they can determine if transfusions are needed when the doctor comes in this am....they took the draws from the port which is so quick and painless...the guy that did the draws during the night did a painful back of the hand insertion draw saying the port was needed for fluids...how some people are locked into certain patterns....oh well....

Respiratory therapy coming next....

Linda is rattling hard...

Every time one thinks they might fall asleep, a new nurse shows.....

Son Jim and daughter in law Jenn are coming back from Arizona on an earlier flight...then direct to hospital.......Friend Mary is coming in from California on a flight this am....and direct to hospital....

Linda's O2 percentage dropped to 88%...dang...now 93...now 92..so all over the place...so who knows....the therapist might know....94......phew!

Another antibiotic at 6 am.....

Hind sight..a wonderful thing....if....we had only known....: In hindsight it seems that Linda was developing pneumonia sometime early yesterday...amazingly after the CTscan showed nothing (from what we heard..more on that as we find out later)...and Linda was able to make the trip to the OHSU with some difficulty but not too tough....the day before...and trips to the bathroom were somewhat arduous but manageable....and then...Claudine and Claudia had problems assisting Linda..and Linda was faint...a clue..in hindsight, Linda was not getting enough O2 to her system...even when it was cranked up from 2 to 4 ml... And then when her temperature rose and we tried to transport...Linda fainted while we were trying to load her in the car...again, hindsight....a lack of O2 to the system, resulting in fainting...

One just doesn't know everything but the good news is....when we knew we were in trouble, we got help.....and Linda was safely transported to the hospital....amazing what a difference a few hours will make....

In the hospital we (nurses and Dave) changed Linda's ostomy.....put a new base on and a bag and...it was a new experience for the nurses and they were appreciative of the opportunity to see and particpate..and this prevents potential trouble on that site today...

The therapist got Linda's O2 back up to 97%.....good news....

Thursday....January 13th...4am...2011

2011-01-13T04:02:00.000-08:00

Blood pressure (BP) 99 over 61....better !

O2 96 percent...good !

103 pulse.much better than the 153 earlier tonight....

Linda sounds horrible....rattling creaking breathing....but no discomfort really....but the sounds indicate there is still a very serious problem...

The last of the antibiotics are going in..more tomorrow we hear....

Thursday.....January 13th...2011....2 am....

2011-01-13T02:05:00.000-08:00

Linda's blood pressure is 86 over 56.....damn.....not good...same as it was about 2 hours ago....low blood pressure means less oxygen is getting to the organs....they have been giving her fluids in an effort to increase the BP...still have yet to hear about the transfusions...

Thursday....January 13th.....1:30 am...2011

2011-01-13T01:33:00.001-08:00

They just did another O2 check...Linda was at 95%!!!!!...the Doctor had told the nurses to do everything they could to get it at least to 88%......I think she was at 81% when she came in...

Another "big gun" antibiotic is being administered.....so far, two "big guns" and two "medium guns"....they are throwing everything they got at this stuff....

Thursday....January 13th...2011

2011-01-13T01:13:00.000-08:00

Linda is resting well...I take comfort in that....no pain and snoring loudly...good for her!

I've thought a lot about how our lives together will end.....my dear hope is that we are not there yet.....I reflect back through some pictures I have been sorting of Linda for a publication I am planning and realize it wasn't that long ago that she was so healthy and energetic and adventuresome....loving life...and living life...and how suddenly that life transitioned to another type of life...where we accepted each day as a "new normal" and "it was what it was"....and yet in reflection...there still was a quality to that new life....

I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time over 30 years ago to meet a wonderful woman who overcame a tragedy and exhibited positive attitudes and saw good in people...was without negative judgements.....practiced acceptance....

She has taught me a lot about life...and I am a better person because of her....

Well enough of the babbling.....I am still absorbing these comments tonight to the posting...all I can say is "incredible"..how our lives touch others and others......ours...

Peace be to you....

Thursday....January 13th 12:02 am...2011

2011-01-13T00:02:00.000-08:00

Nurse Allison went thru the ground rules with us...no flatscreen tv.....

They are preparing another round of antibiotics..on top of the ones used earlier in an effort to head this pneumonia off.....we remembered Linda had a pneumonia shot last fall..so much for that...of course we heard there are so many types, one can't cover all....septic shock is another word we have been hearing....we went thru that a few months ago..the difference being Linda was much stronger then....

Linda is snoring...tired.....

Dave is going to slip out to get something to eat....no lunch and no dinner....great way to lose weight ...yes?.....no?

Wednesday....Janaury 12th..2011

2011-01-12T23:06:00.000-08:00

We are having some humor here so not all glumy...Linda is receiving a bronchial dilator treatment to perhaps help the O2 absorption....she is alert...doesn't have her hearing aid in so sometimes she doesn't hear what's going on....she is a trooper.....

We've notified close family members as to what is going on..hopefully they will follow the BLOG for more details....we aren't going to call anyone else .....not because we don't want to...but we are not sure what we would ask for....

They are now drawing more blood to see of Linda should be on transfusions....they are using a vein to draw the blood because the fluids going thru the port are so important..not to be interrupted....so difficulty in drawing the blood....

Her O2 absorption has gone from 85 to 92.....good for the treatment....above....

Wednesday...January 12th...2011

2011-01-12T22:38:00.000-08:00

The doctor just finished examining Linda and talked to us....Linda has been admitted and is in her room 2020........

The summary......

Linda is critically ill.....a combination of advanced lung cancer and pneumonia.....the biggest problem is poor O2 consumption which can lead to organ failure.

The Doctor is going to aggressively treat the pneumonia in hopes of turning things around.

If this does not happen, based on Linda's wishes this week regarding the chemo, involvement with Hospice and her Advanced Directive, Linda will be made comfortable and things will run their course without further invasive treatment.

Linda is comfortable...she is able to talk and is "herself".....

This is not the way we had planned things.....but one never gets to have it their way all the time......we have some unfinished business.....and I feel like I want to do something to help but it is out of my hands....we have expressed our love for each other and pray things will turn...and having said that, we have had an awareness that there would be an end to this tunnel someday and that there would be no light at the end....please let it be another day.....

Wednesday...January 12th..20111

2011-01-12T21:30:00.001-08:00

Wednesday...January 12th...2011

Linda is in very serious condition with pneumonia...she is at Willamette Falls Hospital....she developed a raspy sound in her trachea today and OHSU said to have her go to an ER if her temperature rose to 100.5.....it was ok until late today when it began to rise..when it reached 100.6 we tried to put her in the car to take her to the hospital but she passed out and we called 911.....they have identified massive pneumonia in her right lung...she is receiving antibiotics, etc etc.....they will be putting her in a room soon. It appears all recognize the advanced stage of her disease and it will be a question as to whether she can weather this invasion...pneumonia is something an advanced lung cancer patirent does not want to contact.

Janine had just arrived to visit with her Mom when all this broke out....

More later as the internet site in this location is not very good....

Tuesday.....January 11th...2011

2011-01-11T19:22:00.000-08:00

We made it to the CTscan appointment and on time.....it was a bit amount of work...what was nice was how wonderful and helpful the technicians and nurses were.....the scan is to be analyzed and reviewed with us on Thursday.....we almost forgot that in addition to see how the cancer has progressed or stopped or...we get to see if the radiation had done its job on the tumor in the upper lobe of the left lung....

Back home to meet with the Hospice nurse and social worker.....good folks...good information.....thanks to Chad for leading us to the right folks....

Thursday Linda will discuss all with the Oncologist and make a decision to continue or go to plan B or to quit treatment all together.....it looks like the quality of life over treatment is a priority for Linda and unless a very much less intrusive treatment is available, Linda will quit treatment and go on hospice....

Linda's Angel Maureen (Cadillac Angel) came today and watched a movie in bed together.....

Linda's Angels Claudine (Cheerleader Angel) and Claudia (Ultimate Angel) visit tomorrow afternoon and daughter Janine brings pizza and visits with her Mom tomorrow night.....

Angel Mary (Maid of Honor Angel) flies in Thursday from California to spend 4 days with Linda and with her daughter.

Son Jim flies back from the Oregon game in Arizona and visits....

Our biggest hope is an "upswing " for Linda....my sense is today she is much better but it's all relative as she remains very weak and not eating much....

ps...are there more Angels......you bet ...they haven't shown yet to be annointed and all......it will happen.....(Bird Angel, Advocate Angel, Southern Angel, Insurance Angel, Energetic Angel, etc)

Monday....January 10th...2010

2011-01-10T22:21:00.000-08:00

Tough day today.....Linda didn't have much of any of an appetite....so not many calories consumed. It is very clear she cannot move without assistance....she has become very unstable...her pills have to be monitored as she appears unclear as to what to take..and so on....

Linda did sit in the living room for the football game...and thought the Ducks had won..(I wish)...

Tomorrow the CTscan and Hospice visit....

Again all calls need to go to Dave and not Linda and visits are limited to family and close "angels".... she is not very exciting to talk to anyway....and we are sure folks understand...

We encourage folks to read the BLOG for details....so we don't have to repeat ourselves again and again...

Thanks much...this is difficult....and please don't ask for pictures....the smile isn't there....

Monday...January 10th...2010

2011-01-10T16:13:00.000-08:00

Linda is spending another day in bed...this is where she is most comfortable...we most likely will be watching the BCS championship game (Go Oregon DUCKS!) from bed...bad news is we only have a 47 inch HD TV there as opposed to a 55 inch in the living room..but we will cope....

Linda's energy level is extremely low...it is a struggle for her to walk or use the bathroom or shower or..or...so all is a struggle...she rests comfortably so that is where she is spending her time.

The CTscan is in the morning.....and Hospice is coming out in the afternoon....so with the Oncologist appointment on Thursday we should have a "game plan" by the weekend....again, it is "quality of life" vs "length of life" and Linda is the determiner of how that all works...and no advice or coaching is needed...Linda is the "driver" and has the information she needs..or will by the weekend...

Cousin Dr. Ron and wife Deb came by today and is of great support to Linda.....

To allow Linda the greatest amount of comfort, we are asking folks to no longer call her directly.....to call Dave instead.....so he can see of she is sleeping or not taking calls...or..or...it is not a simple matter of turning off the phone as we want her to have it for emergencies....

Also we ask....no insist...that people read the Blog to see what is going on...neither of us has the energy to go back through what the Blog can explain...calls are to be more of support... .

Linda wants her visitors limited also.....to family and close friends.....nothing personal but it's about the energy....she has also turned down visits and phone callers..again, nothing personal....it's about supporting Linda......cards or notes are welcome.....

Thanks for understanding....and no more asking Dave how he's doing..he has no clue about how he is supposed to be doing..this is his first time and he is doing the best he can...and not doing it too badly...at least he "thinks " so....

Saturday...January 9th...2011

2011-01-09T00:21:00.000-08:00

Linda spent most of the day in bed.....sleeping.....and receiving many calls....the fluids yesterday seem to have had no positive impact.

Claudia came to check in on her...and while Linda was in bed...they had a good discussion....

As Claudia was leaving, suddenly Linda appeared and announced she wanted Chinese "take out"...to which we responded and had a great meal.....after Claudia left, Linda watched TV before going to bed. "How do you feel", I asked.."about the same"...."tired...fatigued"....I said "you seem so much more upbeat"...to which she said "good company"..."good food"...good TV"....yea.....note..this surely isn't a response to my incredible cooking skills?????

Cousin Dr. Ron comes tomorrow afternoon with wife Deb.....we get excited when he comes...he deals with older patients with all sorts of illnesses and is a very good advisor and counselor to Linda..she values his insights and thoughts....she is surely going to bounce some thoughts about with him....

Daughter Janine comes tomorrow to do her Mom's nails...fingers and toes.....

Monday...day off.....oh..and Oregon beats Auburn....BCS Bowl for the Championship in college football.

Tuesday..... CTscan

Wednesday...day off....

Thursday...Meeting with the Oncologist..where do we go from here?????...Mary also arrives from California to visit

Friday....January 7th...2010

2011-01-07T21:02:00.000-08:00

Linda was pretty weak and fatigued today...both being the same actually....

The infusion center gave her two bags of fluids to see what the impact would be...she slept through the whole thing peacefully as they put her into a bedroom for the infusion....

Nurse coordinator Karen visited and Linda made it clear she was not going to continue in the same state of being...the quality of life is not there......Karen indicated, depending on the CTscan results Tuesday, that time might be taken out to recover, or reduce the dose, or skip a week between each dose...or..or. For Linda, she wants something else or nothing, so we shall see....

Linda indicated she didn't feel any different after the fluid infusion....but her strength appeared obviously a bit stronger (something as opposed to nothing is something)......she seemed to move more steadily without the hesitation or wobble....we shall see tomorrow....

Today is Grand daughter Jillian's birthday...a teenager now...Lord help us!...enjoy you birthday Buzzard!

Thursday.....January 6th...2010

2011-01-06T23:25:00.000-08:00

Linda's state of being is peaceful....accepting what is.....that she is contemplating going off chemo....that maybe she might be able to try another drug/chemo that is less taxing on her body. Linda's biggest desire is to get well enough.....feel well enough...to fly to Florida to say good bye to her friends....Linda also wants to feel other than she feels right now...tired...very fatigued....not a quality of life that works for her....

Having said that, Linda is going to talk with the Oncologist next week about alternatives.....so she is not quiting treatment yet.....

Again, no suggestions or urgings are needed......just support for whatever she decides....she knows hospice is good..she will meet with them as suggested by the Palliative Doctor to get all the information and questions answers...and as he said...there is no requirement to sign up at that time....

Maureen and Kathy came up from Salem today to visit.....Linda got up early and baked cookies for their arrival....I couldn't believe it.....!!!!!!!!!!......of course Maureen (pronounced My - Reen) (yuk yuk yuk) deserves it.....she is a special lady.....who's involvement in our lives has created some pretty funny stories we will take to the grave with us.(to protect the guilty)....thanks to both ladies for taking the time to see Linda....

Son Jim stopped by as he and Jenn fly to Arizona tomorrow for the Oregon football game on Monday....

Tomorrow Linda goes in for fluids...to bolster her system.....it worked early in her treatment...why not now...

If you are concerned about how Linda looks, it is called cushingoid...the results of steroids...harmless but gives the "chipmunk look"....

Wednesday....January 5th....2011

2011-01-05T20:08:00.000-08:00

Today was the visit to the Palliative Doctor...(Palliative care (from Latin palliare, to cloak) is any form of medical care or treatment that concentrates on reducing the severity of disease symptoms, rather than striving to halt, delay, or reverse progression of the disease itself or provide a cure. The goal is to prevent and relieve suffering and to improve quality of life for people facing serious, complex illness. Non-hospice palliative care is not dependent on prognosis and is offered in conjunction with curative and all other appropriate forms of medical treatment.)

The doctor is different from any other kind we have visited...this was our third session....first, he focuses on what is going on...not only physically, but mentally, spiritually, etc..etc...the state of being....the thoughts...the feelings...the questions...the unknowns....etc...

Linda talked about the last two days and how difficult they were....that she took a pretty deep drop in her quality of life (recognizing she felt a bit stronger and better today).....she talked about recognizing where she was in the cycle of chemo and that she was starting to question whether it was worth continuing.....we discussed what the doctor in Bend (Dear Dr. Kornfeld) had said about getting to a point where the quality of life becomes more important than prolonging life through treatment.

This doctor is very quiet and contemplative...his job is not to offer hope or have a "go get them" type of attitude..his demeanor is more quiet and offering ideas and resources to support the patient in where they are at in their disease and state of being. Linda describes him as "laid back"...Dave prefers "contemplative"

Anyway he suggested contacting hospice care (Hospice is a type of care and a philosophy of care that focuses on the palliation of a terminally ill patient's symptoms. These symptoms can be physical, emotional, spiritual or social in nature. The concept of hospice includes palliative care for the incurably ill given in such institutions as hospitals or nursing homes, but also care provided to those in their own homes). The purpose would be to understand what they do..what support they offer...it would not require "signing on" but rather having the information when the "need" for them is desired.....the important concept as we understand it is that all care as currently experienced such as the chemo and tests and all are stopped and that care is provided in the home as described above).

The Doctor also suggested completing a POLST (Physician Order for Life Sustaining Treatment) which directs emergency personnel if required (EMT, ambulance, fire)...it goes beyond an Advanced Directive (An Advance Directive, also known as living will, personal directive, advance directive, or advance decision, are instructions given by individuals specifying what actions should be taken for their health in the event that they are no longer able to make decisions due to illness or incapacity, and appoints a person to make such decisions on their behalf). this will be done immediately.

The Doctor felt Linda and Dave were pretty savvy....we "somewhat" understand where we are at and where we are headed....He also questioned whether Linda was "angry"..she preferred "frustrated"...that there is no miracle..that this will be comping to a closure....she is frustrated losing the clinical trial...the "miracle" drug ..etc..e.tc...but she doesn't let this control her life....

The Doctor also said that patients don't really die from cancer....falls are a major factor...which we have been greatly worried about...the Doctor will send out some folks to evaluate our home and the dangers..and ..and..to provide a safe environment. He also discussed how infections occur etc as a result of the damaged immune system....Blood clots....etc....

He also discussed the mental well being of a patient who initially goes through incredibly disastrous chemo and radiation as Linda did initially because the patient believes there is hope for a cure as opposed to the chemo now which offers no cure....patients approached these in a different way....and their well being is dramatically impacted by the latter.

The nurse, Karen, who looks after Linda's care came in and discussed some off Linda's immediate concerns..a rash..blood deposits in the nose...a bleeding outer left ear.....the desire for extra fluids to support her well being when she is down, etc. Linda will go back Friday for fluids and then anytime she feels they are necessary.

The oxygen is causing the nose to dry and bleed..we have added a humidifier to the home which might ease this..this and the rash might be due to the recent cold and dry weather (now turned to rain and rain and rain...

Claudia and Claudine came today to visit with and care for Linda.....they were a wonderful addition...they understood Linda sometimes just doesn't want to talk or engage these days but values the company and support...again, Linda is feeling a bit stronger than in the past two days (which were very difficult)...

Last night son Jim and daughter Janine came over and cooked dinner.....alright! .....a break! ....and good company.....Claudia helped with dinner tonight..we can get used to this pretty fast!

Again, no magic anywhere..just realness in life....it is life.....a process we would not have chosen.....we are approaching it in the best way we can.....thank you for your support and understanding and not suggesting we go to the Ukraine where they might have some "miracle".....(a bit of humor here)....Linda is very concerned about how all this is perceived by readers...that there might be those who will want to question Linda's decisions....and impact her decision making....this cannot happen....Linda will want and welcome support.....for whatever she does and trust she is able to decide what is best for her....it is her "journey"....please be aware of this in your thoughts and responses...please.....

Tuesday...January 4th...2011

2011-01-04T20:05:00.000-08:00

The following email came yesterday from Marilyn Sara who reads the BLOG daily...it is so heartfelt and touching to both of us that we've taken the liberty to reprint it...there is much there for all of us...Thank you Marilyn..this is special as are you...(and thank you to others who have written special things ).

Hello, Dave,

I know this is a difficult stage of your "new normal." Reading the blog this holiday season helped me to appreciate our current normal even more. It was one of my best partly because I looked at it with new eyes : "What if it were my LAST?" The normal stress of the holidays was replaced by true enjoyment.

In cleaning out old files, I came across a letter I had written to Linda. It had no date, but I recall it was in response to a bump in the road somewhere along the way. I attached it because it is still so true. Sometimes I feel a bit corny about my comments on the blog, but all of them are true and very heartfelt. We will be away from our computer during much of January, but I will try to keep up to speed when I can get to one.

Take care and know that Ms Marilyn and Mr. John think of you often.

Marilyn

Dear Linda,

There was a time when you helped John to have enough courage to speak in front of a huge crowd of people....not something he had signed up for when he said "I do." You encouraged me to "be Dave" at the races. What a challenge!

Thanks for helping the both of us grow both individually and as a couple. You continue to do so to this day. I read the Blog and report to John. (He still is a bit afraid of the computer.) Your courage, honesty, and humor are an inspiration.....and you do it by just being yourself.

Love,

John and Marilyn Sara

Monday....January 3rd...2010

2011-01-03T20:47:00.000-08:00

A tough day today.....Linda didn't have the strength to get out of bed today....no energy....and wondering if it is all worth it.....it is most difficult to tell whether Linda is suffering from from the "chemo punnies" (this being the worst week of the cycle) or whether the cancer is advancing...or whether the impact of the chemo is just not worth sacrificing a quality of life...

Linda was able to get out of bed late today and ate a bit....now late in the evening she is doing better...let's hope tomorrow is much better for her.

I've urged Linda to consider this is the toughest time of the cycle of chemo and by the end of the week she should feel better...and then next week the CTscan and Oncologist visit should spell out where things are at....is "hang in there"...

Other peripheral challenges arose today but we were able to work through them....not that we need anything else to deal with....

Wednesday Linda meets with the Palliatologist....who will be helpful....as this is what he does....

No remedies or suggestions needed.....just good solid support .....

Sunday...January 2nd...2011

2011-01-02T19:55:00.000-08:00

Linda has slept the majority of the day and fell back asleep this evening in front of the TVafter awakening for dinner.....she did eat some of her dinner. We have the humidifier going to get her more moisture to help her nose and throat....

Sunday...January 2nd...2011

2011-01-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

One thousand and thirtieth post......

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Linda continues to weaken....last Thursday was the 3rd chemo infusion in the second of four week cycles....so next week she has "off".....we wonder if she can improve....time will tell. A week from next Tuesday, Linda will have a CTscan to see if all this has done the job....the meeting with the Oncologist to discuss all of this will be a week from next Thursday...

Linda meets with the "Feel good doctor"....the Palliative Care Doctor...this Wednesday...to see what he has to say......

I know Linda is doing a lot of thinking.......and she is very tired.....

Linda had a wonderful Christmas...thanks to all for their support and love....

Jillian left Friday...as you can see from the pictures, she continues to be very photogenic...

Friday...December 31st...2010

2010-12-31T22:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Neeeeeewwwww Yeeeeeeeeaaaaaaa ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Thursday....December 30th...2010

2010-12-30T22:33:00.000-08:00

Linda counting on making it to 2011...She was diagnosed in 2007...saw 2008, 2009, and 2010....she sees this a a landmark...so do I....

Ginnie took Linda to chemo today and then lunch with Nancy......bless her for the loving care.....each person who takes Linda to a chemo session gets do much out of the trip....

We have no plans for New Year's eve...will most likely keep our record going by being in bed shortly after 9 pm..having celebrated on ECT (East Coast Time).....

The rumor has it that Claudia has a Mercedes sports car.....

Grand daughter Jillian is spending the night.....and caring for her Grandma......

Wednesday....December 29th...2010

2010-12-29T19:25:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK — The city's campaign to scare smokers with grotesque images of decaying teeth or a diseased lung wherever tobacco products are sold was struck down Wednesday by a federal judge who concluded that only the federal government can dictate warnings that must accompany the promotion of cigarettes.

U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff handed a victory to the nation's three largest tobacco manufacturers and the retailers who sell their products when he ruled on the legality of a 2009 city Board of Health code change requiring the display of smoking cessation signs where tobacco products are sold.

"Even merchants of morbidity are entitled to the full protection of the law, for our sake as well as theirs," Rakoff said. He released the written decision just days before an agreement among the parties to delay enforcement of the rule was to expire on Saturday.

He said the federal Labeling Act, first enacted in 1965, sought to balance public and commercial interests with a comprehensive federal program to deal with cigarette labeling and advertising. He said it was created in part to prevent "diverse, nonuniform and confusing cigarette labeling and advertising regulations." Part of the law dictated that no state law could impose a requirement or prohibition with respect to advertising or promotion of cigarettes, he noted.

The city also banned smoking in indoor workspaces, increased cigarette taxes, initiated educational campaigns and promoted smoking cessation programs.

As part of his ruling, Rakoff included some of the statistics that encouraged the city to enact the regulation: that one-third of smokers die of tobacco-related diseases and roughly 7,500 people die in New York City from smoking annually – "more than from AIDS, homicide and suicide combined."

And More.....

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene said in a statement that it was "disappointed in and strongly disagrees with today's ruling."

It added: "Tobacco companies that are trying to prevent these messages from being seen should be ashamed of themselves."

WE (Dave and Linda) AGREE....Everytime we see a smoker, we want to scream .....

Tuesday.....December 28th..2010

2010-12-28T21:01:00.000-08:00

Linda is in the middle of the "chemo punies"....she is worn out and has lost interest in a lot of things...not very good company she says....we hope she gets some energy back but realize another chemo this thursday...and we understand it is the chemo that is hurting her but yet keeping her going...the "double edged sword"...

The rain here is outrageous.....

Dave is realizing he has taken on issues on too many fronts...with a family so large...so he is "pulling back" and his focus is on Linda alone....and limit his "sanity".....it will be good...

Sunday....December 26th...2010

2010-12-26T21:33:00.000-08:00

All have gone home or to other relatives......so son Jeff has come to stay with us til Wednesday....

Who was here?.......Daughter Wendy, Son in law Chris and Grand daughter Taigen...from Seattle...they left today. Daughter Janine was here...living closeby. Son Jim, Daughter in law Jenn and Grand daughter Jillian were here....living closeby. Son Jeff was here..staying with Jim. Jillian's Mother Julie and Significant other Ray and her sons Jordan and Trever came for Christmas day.

So there was a total of 14 folks here counting Linda and Dave.....a houseful for sure.

Linda gave to each girl/woman a piece or set of her personal jewelry for Christmas..very touching and heartfelt...a tear or two was shed as the jelwelry was very dear to Linda..each piece has a story...and she wanted it to go to those she loved....

Today...Linda was/is very tired...the holidays and the chemo were the factors..now to get her to rest.....we shall see....she is sleeping a lot.....

With the holidays behind us, we look forward to restful times.....

Saturday...December 25th...Christmas...2010

2010-12-25T21:49:00.000-08:00

Friday...Christmas Eve...December 24th...2010

2010-12-24T20:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Linda and sister in law Joni went to the OHSU Knight's center for chemo infusion....Linda's oxygen percentage was measured several times..at 97%..so the lung love most have reinflated as a result of the radiation...we will know for sure in a little over two weeks with the CTscan scheduled. Linda is using oxygen when she is active as she gets a shortness of breath quickly..but when resting she doesn't use it...nice...

Joni experienced the infusion center as upbeat and positive...lots of conversations...lots of good cheer....a good experience for her....

Last night our neighbors.....the Coopers from across the street came for a visit...nice couple....

Tonight all gathered here for Christmas dinner...Linda is holding up well...everyone will gather back in the morning for gifts and brunch...

Linda thanked all the children and spouses at dinner for their support and the anniversary event..she felt blessed with so much support within her family.....

I know she is also very appreciative and blessed with the support from each of you...in fact, here she is to say so herself....

Linda: I feel very blessed sharing such a beautiful Christmas with my family this year. All of you add to the spirit of the season and we must remember the birth of Christ which is why we celebrate the holiday. May He bless you and us in the new year!

Wednesday...December 23rd...2010

2010-12-23T00:06:00.000-08:00

Linda was up early and overdoing it again..of course...baking and more baking....washing clothes...and more....

Our retired dentist Glen and Sybil came to visit Linda mid day....our insurance agent Judy and Roman came with dinner tonight....all great friends.....Linda was excited to see all....

Tomorrow sister in law Joni takes Linda for her chemo.....Dave will be finishing the tiling project and finish the railing project on the front porch....

Friday...family arrives...

Tuesday....December 21st...2010

2010-12-21T20:59:00.000-08:00

Cookie day today....Linda's niece Susan, her mother Jo, daughter Sarah and our grand daughter Jillian gathered at the Wood home to bake and decorate Christmas sugar cookies with Miss Linda....Linda began the day pretty weak but by lunch had gathered strength...all had a good time and there were some pretty cool looking cookies...
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Dave spent a wonderful morning finishing a gallon of ugly tasting pre colonoscopy stuff followed by a trip to the doctor followed by a long involuntary sleep followed by a trip home with daughter Janine (no yogurt stop at Costco which was a prerequisite for allowing her to drive me!).

Tomorrow our wonderful Dentist of old, Dr and Mrs. Durham come for a visit and dinner and evening with our wonderful insurance agent and friends Judy and Roman.....and they get to visit with wonderful us...

Monday...December 20th...2010

2010-12-20T20:02:00.000-08:00

Linda is doing pretty good..she is going without the oxygen for periods of time...she believes the radiation was effective and the left upper lobe reinflated...she does say though that it is more comfortable with the )2...she does like going into stores without it....so we are carrying it in the car now at all times so she can use it as needed.....she is pretty weak..hard to get up..almost impossible in she kneels down....can't hardly climb stairs...needs help doing so...

Last night Ginnie and Nancy came for dinner.. daughter Janine helped her mother prepare the meal...and did a great job...son Jim showed and joined in...a good time was had by all.....

Tomorrow grand daughter Jillian and Linda's niece Susan and her daughter Sarah are coming over to make and decorate sugar cookie....Linda has the dough ready to go...Dave wishes he could join in but the followup Colonoscopy is tomorrow....can they make that stuff you drink any worse...and the other half has to be drunk in the am....UGGGGGGGHHHHHH.....

The bathroom floor is tiled..now the counter.....

Mrs. Wood has acknowledged her loss of hair and cancer this round by wearing a baseball cap instead of a wig...she figures folks just aught to know she has cancer....she has always resisted wearing a ball cap...looks good...

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Sunday...December 19th...2010

2010-12-19T22:59:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas Newsletter

Christmas 2010 by Dave and Linda

First, Linda and Dave wish you and you’re a very Merry Christmas and may your New Year be one of health and prosperity…

For us, it has been quite a year … one of gratitude and one of sadness. One of growth and one of realness. One of gratitude and one of limitations.

A quick review of the year past… Linda started the year two and half years into her lung cancer journey… 5 months of 2010 with Alimta, a targeted therapy which worked well… then moving to Oregon Health Science University (OHSU) in Portland and starting Tarceva, a very successful new generation targeted therapy… alas, the “miracle drug” failed to help Linda in any way and allowed the cancer to grow unabated for 2 and a half months …. then excitement to be included in a clinical trial but rejected after a month and a half of preparation just the day before the trial was to start (the cancer has free reign now for 4 months)… then 10 days of radiation to potentially deal with a collapsed lung lobe…and finally back to a new chemo to slow down the cancer …and on oxygen to help her breathe and (yeah) stopped the persistent cough…

So where are we? The cancer will ultimately prevail unless a miracle suddenly appears. What is amazing the strength and resolve Linda has shown…her Oncologists and Doctors have said “she is going through this with grace”...”strong and inspiring”…

We sold our Sisters, Oregon home in January and returned to our Florida home which we sold in April…then life started in the Portland area where we rented an RV spot for two months while we looked for a home. Then two months in the RV next to our new home in Canby, Oregon while we completely renovated the home to make it “ours”. We have lived in the home now for our 4th month and projects are still going on but it is a very delightful place to live. Linda has not regretted one moment of this project and is happy to have such a comfortable and warm place to call ours.

Now for the bad news… this rain is a bit much…the climate here is made for ducks…but we are coping….our Florida friends are surely feeling sorry for us.

What do we find in Canby that excited us enough to find a place to call our own? It is more of a laid back community close enough to Portland but also far enough away to avoid the traffic jams, shootings, etc., etc… Neighbors take care of their places and are very friendly and helpful and it is not uncommon to lose an hour or two engaging in a spontaneous conversation in the middle of the street. Although a bit conservative, the community takes pride in itself and reflects that in many ways. We like Canby because we a very close to the city boundary surrounded by farms and nurseries…and a ferry that crosses the Willamette River just to the north of us…with a ferryman that one can ride with for an hour or two and just shoot “the bull”. We like Canby because one can go in several different directions and end up in a different town or store or mall … and all is very close drive. We like Canby as we are close to Janine and Jim and Jenn…and not that far from Seattle…and the train if we chose to ride north. We also can catch the west side train to the Max system into Portland. Enough said…we like it and feel blessed we found this community.

For a more exhaustive communiucation …day by day… check with www.linda-lou.blogspot.com
Odds and Ends…

Dave did a Crossover back up for Wings Seminars again this year as well as a couple’ Listening Heart Seminar with Linda….

We took granddaughter Jillian by train to Seattle and then by boat to Victoria where we stayed at the Empress Hotel…

We went on a “camping” trip with daughters Janine and Wendy (with Chris and Taigen)…we say “camping” because it is a 38 foot motor home for us…

Our kids put on a 30th Anniversary Event for us for which we are very grateful…they did a wonderful job and we thank them…we got to see a lot of “old” and “new” friends…it was very special.

In wrapping this up, we want to say we are grateful for each other and those around us…so many friends and family members have stepped up and supported us in many ways…we want to say..”Thank you”…you are special…. We have been through some hard times and we are committed to be “in the present” and not worry too much about the future where we lose the present. And to have such a support system of family and friends has been so critical to this goal in our lives.

Our “contracts” we have taken for our lives through Crossover…in 1988…
Linda….. “I am an open, powerful and courageous woman” Dave…”I am a gentle, relaxed and flexible man” Our “commitment statement” from Listening Heart…in 1989… to each other … begins “We are one….”

With Love and Gratitude…Dave and Linda

Friday...December 17....2010

2010-12-17T22:59:00.000-08:00

Linda had a good day today..up at 7:30 while Sadie and Dave slept...Linda packed presents...balanced the checkbook...etc..etc ...a surge of energy...of course she went to far and tired a lot...down for a nap and then up getting ready for her siblings' arrival (with spouses)..

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Dave cut Linda's hair short but it looked a bit like "Phantom of the Opera" so tomorrow it all comes off....better now than later..and the wig fits better...

Linda had a great time with her siblings and lasted til late...the siblings had a good time with her too...it is so important this family support at this stage in her "journey"....

Tomorrow a day off...actually Dave will be tiling and keeping Linda slowed down...we shall see...

Thursday....December 16th...2010

2010-12-16T21:49:00.000-08:00

Another long busy day....

A trip to the OHSU medical oncologist first...he indicated that Linda did well on her first round of chemo (doing it over three weeks) so he was putting her to round two in the same manner starting today...after the 4 weeks of round two, another CTscan will be done to see if....a) the radiation or the oxygen has stopped the coughing and all....he says he believes it was the radiation..we shall see....and b) to see if the chemo has been effective...and if it has, he will continue on it for another round...if not, he will try something else. We asked him what that might be..he grinned and said "to be determined"...and then mentioned some drug with a very long name.

Linda's pulse and blood pressure have been good...which is a nice turn of events....with that in order and no cough, things are looking up.....Linda is still a bit weary of her hair falling out...it is like living old memories...and she didn't like it the last time...and having said that, she is getting used to it....she also looks a bit puffy in the face...which is due to the increased steroids....which she doesn't need to be reminded of either....

Linda had a "delightful" time in chemo..although it took quite a while again to get everything going....and we heard they had a new procedure..but one wouldn't have recognized it....and the "delightful" is relative...she sat in an area with a high spirited and delightful woman with breast cancer who had a great attitude and outlook on things....as Dave went shopping for Christmas stuff, Linda said the two ladies chatted the entire time...good to see others with good spirits and to associate with the same...

Tomorrow it's the get to gether for Linda's siblings and their spouses...it will be a delightful time for Linda..she is looking forward to it....

Dave is continuing his project of tiling the upstairs bathroom...his last big project inside....and he is off to Woodburn to change vehicle titles and finish Christmas shopping at the Outlet Mall...the joke is that the neighbors recommended Woodburn DMV because if you get in the "English speaking" line, they said you will be the only one in line...wonder what that meant...anyway, going to the DMV is almost as bad as the followup colonoscopy he has to have next week...or is the post office the worst?

Finally, while "spell checking" this BLOG, it wanted to change colonoscopy to kaleidoscope...think about it......

Wednesday...December 15th...2010

2010-12-15T22:48:00.000-08:00

Busy day today....

The visit to the radiology oncologist went well...he is very nice and supportive....he showed Linda her last scan (4 weeks ago) from the top to the bottom, identifying each structure in the body and where the cancer is....he said that the next scan in 4 weeks should show clearly whether the radiation was effective or it was the oxygen...he said...of course...they wanted the credit...but the scan would show what happened...

Tomorrow we go to the bottom of the hill to see the medical oncologist and get his take...and then start the next round of chemo (1/3 each week for three weeks and then the 4th week off).

Linda was pretty good energy wise today...she asked the oncologist today about exercise and he indicated as others have....no pain no gain...is not the prescribed routine...do what her body tells her...move about...but not push it where it doesn't want to go....

Friday Linda's siblings all get together at our house to celebrate the holiday together....that should be very good for her....

Tuesday...December 14th...2010

2010-12-14T19:15:00.000-08:00

We are working on several fronts.....

Christmas cards are out...

The Trusts are funded and final papers are being sent to the various places for recording and..and...

Linda's major baking is done....

Linda is working on the Peachtree accounting on the investments to finish calendar year 2010o....

Christmas shopping is almost done....waiting a couple more ideas to finish up.....

Dave is starting to tile the upstairs bathroom floor and counter...the last major inside job....

Tomorrow it's off to see the radiology oncologist..as a checkup on Linda's treatment....Thursday it's off to see the medical oncologist...as a checkup also and then a chemo treatment....

ps..the hair continues to fall....as it continues to rain here....

Sunday....December 12th...2010

2010-12-12T19:51:00.000-08:00

Would somebody...anybody...come here and slow this woman down??????

Bake...make candy...bake...make candy...the woman has gone crazy....

ps...the hair is starting to come out....chemo.....

Friday...December 10th...2010

2010-12-10T21:48:00.000-08:00

Another busy day today recording deeds, establishing Trust bank accounts...etc...etc..
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Linda had a pretty good day considering the chemo and all....our comments re the hair are premature...small handfuls can be "extracted"...looks like the "blond" is going to show up again in our lives...AKA "the wig".....oh well....

Daughter in law Jenn came over in the am to brighten Linda's day...her cousin Ron ("Dr. Ron") came over after a meeting in Portland to see her...and her brother Marlin came over from the other side of the freeway...so she had lots of company today to add cheer to the day....

Tomorrow it is supposed to rain big amounts...we had a lot of rain two days ago...the ferry is closed because of high waters in the river..but this coming storm is supposed to be bigger...a good day to hunker down at home..

Wednesday...December 8th....2010

2010-12-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

Good day today.....Claudia, Claudine and Karen came over to bake with Linda.....the "St. Paul Girls"....Betty came over later to finish up....lots of goodies were baked and a good time was had by all....it is simply amazing to see the lift Linda gets from these visits.....Claudia stayed for the evening and it was most enjoyable sharing stories and memories from our youths...hopefully they all come back...

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Tuesday...December 7th...2010

2010-12-07T21:43:00.000-08:00

Linda has been very happy with her Christmas decorating that so many people had a hand in..she raves about it every time she is on the phone with someone..so thank you again to those who assisted her...

And to the baker helpers...thank you too...and Claudia is bringing a bunch tomorrow to bake in the afternoon...cheers to you too....

Mrs. Wood is holding her own...the O2 is helping....the chemo is slowing her down..this next week is her week off...so she should have a better week....

This has been a week of Arborvitae planting outside by Dave...he is feeling his age though but is glad to be outside..even when it rains....Linda is addressing Christmas cards and letters....and both are still working on Trust matters...

Tuesday....December 6th...2010

2010-12-06T18:52:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Edwards has been advised by her doctors that further treatment of her cancer would be unproductive. "She is resting at home with family and friends," said the Edwards family in a statement issued.

Edwards posted to Facebook on Monday, an incredible "spot on" statement worth repeating

You all know that I have been sustained throughout my life by three saving graces -- my family, my friends, and a faith in the power of resilience and hope. These graces have carried me through difficult times and they have brought more joy to the good times than I ever could have imagined. The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. We know that. And yes, there are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human. But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. And for that I am grateful. It isn't possible to put into words the love and gratitude I feel towards everyone who has and continues to support and inspire me every day. To you I simply say: you know.

Saturday...December 4th...2010

2010-12-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

I am feeling so blessed after the last couple days. Here I was going through a grieving process when Jim and Janine showed up to set up the tree. Then Nancy and Ginnie showed up and put up the lights and ornaments to make the tree absolutely beautiful.
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The crowning glory was when four beautiful friends (Judy, Rhodie, Maureen, and Kathy) showed up last night serenading me in matching pajamas. Of course they had a pair for me which I hastily put on. What a night we had. We ate. looked at old pictures, and made beautiful new memories. My days of making memories are not over which was great for my morale. These gals gave me a gift that can not be measured and hopefully we can do it again. We called it a slumber party even though everyone went home at 11:00 so I could get my beauty sleep.

I know it was necessary to go through the grieving process,, but I am grateful for all of you that got me out of my funk. Christmas always puts me in a good mood.

Love and Gratitude.......Linda...

30 years of marriage..

Dave and Linda were celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary.

Suddenly, a tiny yet beautiful fairy appeared . She said, 'For being such an exemplary married couple and for being loving to each other for all this time, I will grant you each a wish.'

Linda answered, 'Oh, I want to travel around the world with my darling husband, Dave.
The fairy waved her magic wand and - poof! - two tickets for the Queen Mary II appeared in her hands.

Dave thought for a moment: 'Well, this is all very romantic, but an opportunity like this will never come again. I'm sorry Linda, but my wish is to have a wife 30 years younger than me.

Linda and the fairy, were deeply disappointed, but a wish is a wish.

So the fairy waved her magic wand and poof!...Dave became 92 years old.

The moral of this story:

Men who are ungrateful bastards should remember fairies are female.....

2010-12-02T21:17:00.000-08:00

Linda had a good day today mentally...visiting with the Doctor yesterday helped..and having such good friends to help her out..more on that later....and it being Christmas..all helped....she is in a good place...

Nancy and Virginia came over today and decorated the Christmas tree and some more of the house....and we all sat down to a Chinese dinner..from the local Chinese restaurant....thanks and more thanks to two wonderful people for their love and support...and for being there at a critical time for Linda..

Linda's fortune tonight...."An admirer is too shy to greet you at the moment...."to me this means someone who has something to say to Linda is holding back and might regret it down the line...step forward...take the risk...and talk with Linda...don't be shy!

Tomorrow is a BIG day....first we meet with the banker in Portland who handles our annual builder's loan on our Brasada spec house...seeing how this February will go with the loan and to meet Dave...Linda has been working with him solely....then Linda has her two hours in the infusion center at OHSU getting the third week of chemo in her first cycle..next week she has off. We are going to get a private bedroom for the infusion..nice of them to accommodate our needs as we are going to use the time as time to spend with our trust attorney to continue the trust development..tomorrow is about funding the trusts and to set up title changes..loan changes, etc., etc..

Thank you ..all of you for understanding the blog entry for yesterday...it is where we are at...in our basic form...

Dave got another question today...one he has heard a few times over the past couple of weeks: "AND..how are you DOING?".......a tough question as I am not really sure.....I've not been in this exact spot before...I never anticipated being in this place in time...I do know I am watching my health as I let it slip early on in this journey and paid dearly for it....I know I don't want to be alone...I am scared to be alone...I know I don't want to lose my wife...especially since it is Linda....who is one in a million...I know I am wanting to be in the moment and not worry too much about the future..but I also know I have an "eye" on the future..and I question constantly whether I am being "real" in this place I am in (I want to believe I am)...I know I am not looking for advice....or to be "fixed"....we get enough of that...anyway...it is a tough question which has left me to ponder each time I am asked....and it will continue as such...

Thank you again for your support..and understanding....the picture below include Linda at her last infusion session..then Linda at Thanksgiving and finally Nancy, Virigina and Linda before the decorated Christmas tree

Wednesday....December 1st...2010

2010-12-01T21:59:00.000-08:00

Quite a day today.....we met with the Palliative Doctor...(Palliative care: Medical or comfort care that reduces the severity of a disease or slows its progress rather than providing a cure)...Linda had met with him a while back but was in a much better condition...this time she felt she needed help....she wanted to know why she felt the way she did...and was part of her feeling due to the chemo or the cancer...and why was she so depressed....

The Doctor was very helpful....after talking and listening to Linda....first he explained that she was not depressed but rather grieving...that grieving is a natural process for where she is at in her journey through cancer...that it is a process that comes with the knowledge that one will lose their life because of the cancer...it is inevitable...he advised her to be with the grieving..not to reject it or shove it away...with this there will come a sense of acceptance....

The Doctor said it was the chemo that was making her feel the way she does...the fatigue...and other side effects..not the cancer....he is putting her on steroids daily to help her with the fatigue and other symptoms...

He emphasized that she has done nothing wrong..she has been a model patient through this journey...she has done her part...and there is no blame...

There was more but the time was well spent...and Linda appears to be comforted by the visit....as we talked with the Doctor, Christmas is a special time for Linda..always has..and to know that this will be her last Christmas is hard on her...and to feel the way she does...and to move to the Portland area believing there was greater hope and to find that there would be one failure in treatment after another. but again, it was the risk we took...and we are in acceptance of what has occurred.

What now?

Linda is a strong person...with an incredible religious belief system..so she is comforted by that. She can accept things that others would/could not....so as the Doctor said..focus on the time you have...which is/has been one of Linda's goals throughout this journey...

We are surrounding her with friends and relatives ...baking...visiting... decorating..etc. We will continue to do so recognizing she needs rest time each day...

What can you do? Pray... encourage her...support her....nurture her....laugh with her...cry with her.

What we ask you not do...please do not call and ask her what happened that day at the Doctors or...or...that costs too much energy for one person's benefit...call to encourage..to support..not to gain information...read the Blog....for that...

Don't offer cancer remedies that involve anything in any way..it is counter productive..besides, we have heard them all..or enough that we wish not to hear more...we know the neighbor's brother's dentist's dog's groomer's mother was cured of a cancerous brain tumor...you get the picture..offering false hope is not reasonable nor wanted...

Stop by....don't wait and then regret....say what you want to say..Linda loves people who are current and honest in their communication...she has done enough personal growth work as a participant and in a support role to recognize when friends/relatives are doing less than that...you can't fool her..she is a very wise insightful woman...

I've said about enough..you get the picture...Linda is an incredible woman...she didn't deserve this..nor the other sad times in her life..she is one in a million (or billion)....and having said that...It is what it is.

Thank You for listening and your support and involvement..we are all part of Linda Wood's journey....

Tuesday...November 30th...2010

2010-11-30T21:46:00.000-08:00

Linda is tired most of the time..sleeps a lot...having said that, she is not coughing and breathing easier...thanks to the supplemental oxygen...she is dealing with some depression, knowing the oxygen is not a sometime deal as she originally thought..but rather 24/7...and that it is another step in the cancer journey.

Many friends and family members are stepping forward knowing Christmas, including baking and decorating are very important to Linda...and we are very thankful for that...

Linda had some difficulty breathing this am while she was doing some paperwork in the office...it was only after letting her know her chair leg was on the oxygen tubing that the breathing became easier again....duh....

Tomorrow we are going to OHSU to visit with the Palliative Doctor..we think he might have some thoughts about making Linda's life easier...we shall see.

We also have our cleaning lady coming for the first time...yea....

Sunday....November 28th.....2010

2010-11-28T22:03:00.000-08:00

Linda is doing well on the O2 but still not much "gas in the engine" ....she tires quickly and recovery takes time...she has talked with numerous folks by phone and appears to be saying she is sliding downhill.....this has been hard on her..even though the O2 helps her ...so a bit of good and bad mixed together...and then there is the impact of the chemo...

Claudia was a "champ" ( a Christmas Fairy?) today...came over and did Christmas decorating with Linda...the decorating is very important to Linda ....they also planed a "girls baking day" and have the recipes picked out....actually we asked her if she was a Fairy or an Elf...and she was very clear that she was a Elf!

Dave is tiling the counter in the laundery....and it looks great...he also bought 40 Empress Green Arbivitae...to make a hedge out on the front sidewalk....tomorrow he is picking up the remainder of the plants and buy materials for a front porch railing....

One more Turkey Day cartoon..and that ends it....

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Saturday....November 27th...2010

2010-11-27T18:32:00.000-08:00

Well...first trip to the store with the wheelchair and oxygen tank...and Mrs. Wood passed with flying colors....she's getting things figured out and accepting the O2 as the "new normal".....what is surprising is the coughing that has gone on for months is GONE.....and she feels better (duh)....
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This Christmas will be very important to Linda....people are already committing to come over and bake cookies and such with her...as that is her favorite thing...and to help her decorate for Christmas which is also her favorite thing....anyone wanting to come over and engage in one or the other or both...just call Mrs. Wood and find a time....

Linda thinks the BLOG comments and all within them are so wonderful....not able to thank each and everyone of you personally...consider this your THANKS! You are all special in her eyes....keep those comments coming..she reads and rereads every one of them.....

Some Turkey Day cartoons sent to us...brings a chuckle....

Friday...November 26th...2010

2010-11-26T22:06:00.000-08:00

Another "line in the sand" crossed...Linda is on O2 now..and will be on it...whenever and wherever...a bit of a shock for her....she has a machine that creates O2 which is her main source...she also has a big emergency tank should there be a power failure..etc...etc...and she has several small tanks (well kind of small) for travel...it will take a bit getting used to but she has what it takes to prevail and she will......

Friday....November 26th..2010

2010-11-26T11:15:00.000-08:00

Things didn't go well after company left last night...Linda was short of breath and every effort drove her heart rate and pulse up.....today the answer became clear..she is not getting enough oxygen...we knew this was something in progress and last night was the "turning point"....

Today at chemo, Linda's O2 was at 90 then 89%....when documented twice..which it was, then she is put on oxygen..once they put it on her, she relaxed immediately and went to restful sleep....we believe they are arranging for oxygen equipment for our home as we speak...

Most of the OHSU facility was closed so no garage parking..no help downstairs etc..etc..only the infusion center is open..so it was a struggle to get Linda to the center...but we made it...