New Years Goals

Dear Meagan,

Hey there girl :) Sorry I'm a couple days later in the week than usual on the blog!  Just got back from Christmas in Miami... It was a lot of fun, and very warm, but I missed you guys for sure!

Well New Years Eve is RIGHT around the corner... it is time to reflect on 2012 and determine your goals for 2013 :)  Take 30 minutes to an hour and physically write down a few goals for 2013... make sure to include financial, spiritual, relationship/family, academic, physical, and any other personal! phew!

Once you have written down the goals post them somewhere in your room, where you can see them daily. It will really help to read them everyday so they are at the forefront of your mind.  Seriously review them about once a month and see where your at and where you need to go.

Things are getting better and better for you Meaggy and if you keep setting goals, you will keep achieving them!

Below is a poem to help you accomplish your 2013 goals! Love you girl! I'll see you Sunday for dinner :)

XOXO,

Brooke

Climb 'Til Your Dream Comes True

by: Helen Steiner Rice

Often your tasks will be many,
And more than you think you can do.
Often the road will be rugged
And the hills insurmountable, too.
But always remember,
The hills ahead
Are never as steep as they seem,
And with Faith in your heart
Start upward
And climb 'til you reach your dream.
For nothing in life that is worthy
Is ever too hard to achieve
If you have the courage to try it,
And you have the faith to believe.
For faith is a force that is greater
Than knowledge or power or skill,
And many defeats turn to triumph
If you trust in God's wisdom and will.
For faith is a mover of mountains,
There's nothing that God cannot do,
So, start out today with faith in your heart,
And climb 'til your dream comes true!

Holiday Love & The Christmas Spirit

Dear Meagan,

So the last kidney surgery was postponed but whenever it is rescheduled for, it will go well :) Now we just gotta figure out when you get to rock that thing out! 

I don't know if you noticed, but it seems that all of Michigan caught the Christmas spirit this year, and it's great isn't it! :) People are just in a better mood- and I have a non-professional theory! haha

I've told you about Gary Chapman's five love languages before.  In his books, he explains how people give and receive love in five different languages, and that it is important for families and couples to 'speak each others language.'  I'm going to argue that the holidays fulfill EVERYONES love language and therefore lead to the Christmas spirit and the joy of the holidays!

Here are the five love languages and how they are fulfilled by Christmas:

1) Receiving gifts- Ok, this one is very clear.  Holidays are a huge gift giving time.  So anyone who's love language is receiving gifts, is just on cloud nine at this time of year!

2) Quality time- Outside of giving gifts, another huge thing we do around the holidays is spend quality time with our families and loved ones.  I got to celebrate with you last weekend (which was awesome- thank you again for that amazing scrapbook) and people all over the world are flying and driving to visit their families.  Therefore, those whose love langague is quality time, are also feeling very loved around the holidays :)

3) Physical touch- Along with seeing family is lots of hugging and kissing and hand holding!  Also couples are probably getting a little intimate at this time of year as well :) haha... I dare you to count how many hugs and kisses you get at Aunt Lizzies on Christmas, more than any normal day I'm sure! So you can see why the physical touches are feeling extra loved as well!

4) Words of affirmation- During the holiday season bosses are thanking their employees, families are telling each other I love you, and strangers are wishing each other a great day/holiday.  On top of that, people are getting heartfelt cards and letters from November- January.  The words of affirmation people are definitely loved during this season!

5) Acts of service- Ok, think about the last month... true or false: more people have opened doors for you than the rest of year. I'm not sure about you, but I've really noticed it this year!  People are just more helpful during the holidays, whether it's offering to help with dishes or doing small favors for strangers like picking up a dropped pair of gloves. People just do things more for each other at this time of year- so the acts of service people feel loved too!

On top of all that, people everywhere have the opportunity to GIVE love using their love language during the holiday season, by doing all the above listed things... making them feel even more warm and fuzzy! It's a vicious yet amazing cycle :)

SO be aware of all this love going around and embrace it! Here's the challenge: bring it into the rest of the year! Imagine how different the world would be if the 'holiday spirit' was just the normal spirit of our town, state, country and world-- it can happen!  I challenge both you and I to keep the holiday spirit year round-- I think we can do it, and change the little worlds around us :)

Love you Meagan! Have a great Christmas-- I'm sad I won't be with you ON Christmas day but our celebration last weekend was amazing (& delicious)! I'll call you Christmas day girlie :)

XOXO,

Brooke

Moving FORWARD

Dear Meagan,

Congratulations Meagan Ann from Japan! You finished off your first semester of class since your diagnosis and I could not be MORE proud of you for doing so :) Raise your right hand.... and pat yourself on the back! hehe- I can't wait to see you on Saturday to give you a big congratulatory hug. You did a BIG thing this semester- you took a GIANT step forward- and there are so many more to come!

So we have ONE more 'obstacle' to tackle on Tuesday and then you are home free.  Just one more small gig to take care of this kidney thing once and for all!  As always- I'll be there by your side before, during, (well in the waiting room) and after. I wouldn't miss a chance to support you for anything in the world! As I've said time and time again your are a CHAMPION and a FIGHTER and this minor thing is cake walk at this point!

Before that thoughhhhhh we are going to celebrate family Christmas on Sunday! Woo hoo! I am super excited to see you and can't wait for some Kruse n Muer-- yummmmm-- get ready to eat like 5 lb of bread haha :)

So that's all for now chica-- I still can't believe how far you've come and more importantly, how far your going! Keep taking those steps FORWARD everyday!

XOXO,

Brooke

Carly Rose Sonenclar

Dear Meagan,

Thought I would switch it up this week and do something fun!!! Last week on the phone I was telling you about this AMAZING 13 year old girl on X Factor who is GREAT at what she does (singing) but I am also going to tell you what else she is great at!

But first watch her audition...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffyZNW7Ra7M


WOW RIGHT!!! Soooo amazing :)

The great thing about Carly is that she is not only great at what she DOES, she is also so LIKEABLE and genuine which makes her talent more 'effective' than someone who may have the same voice as her without that likeability factor.

The even better thing about Carly is that she is just like YOU :) You are also great at what you do (helping others/german/fundraising) AND you have the likeability factor! You are your very own X factor hehe :)

Love you Meag! Keep up the great work... now go watch some more Carly Rose, she's an inspiring little one.  Here is a couple more of my fav's:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OOSIec9ehk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75VM6vxQlk8

ENJOY!

XOXO,

Brooke

Proud of you!

Dear Meagan,

Tonight will be short and sweet! I just want to say that I love you and that I'm proud of you!

It's been a long road starting school all over again, but your handling it like a champ as we knew you would... You are only a couple weeks out, and I love how determined you are.  No stupid book or faulty website will hold you back.

You've proven over and over again that you are a champion and a fighter.  What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.  And you sista are one strong chica.

I love how you don't let things hold you back from your dreams, it is truly inspirational.

Two weeks left, your a few short steps away from successfully completing your first full semester back after all you've been through. There is no greater accomplishment in the world!

I love you... your awesomeness is awesome hehe :)

XOXO,

Brooke

Giving Thanks

Dear Meagan,

I bet you are not at all surprised that this is the topic the day before thanksgiving!  I'm going to be short and sweet tonight- got a paper to write by Friday :/ Buuuutt I'm thankful for the opportunity to get my degree and to write a paper on my own research! (hehe)

So as I'm sure you are well aware it is absoultely natural human tendency to notice the bad things in life :/ We notice all the little things that go wrong throughout the day but rarely notice all the things that go RIGHT!  We need to make a conscious effort to laugh off the bad and NOTICE the GOOD!

A great way to remember to give thanks is to pray to daily.  Every time you pray be sure to start by THANKING God for all things in your life that are going RIGHT.  Thank Him for the roof over your head, the direction that your going with school, and most of all thank Him for making you a living miracle and allowing you to overcome and thrive through your surgeries (I know I thank Him every day for that!)

This Thanksgiving, I'm thankful for you and the rest of the fam for sure :)  I hope you don't ever look at your life and think of the struggles (we could all do that- although I think you beat out most 23 year olds ;).... instead I hope you look at your life with joy and amazement realzing how much of a miracle you are and how much you've overcome!

Love you.... HAPPY TURKEY DAY!

XOXO,

-Brooke

Finish What You Start

Dear Meagan,

Great to see you last weekend at Mom's event :)  You and grandpa did some dannnnccinnng! hehe

Today I'm going to tell you about WHY you have to finish what you start.  No one likes a quitter and Sutherland's simply aren't quitters!

When you make a commitment to something it is absolutely crucial that you follow through on that commitment, no matter how big or small.  Each time you let yourself quit something you are telling your subconcious that you are a quitter, maybe even a failure, and that you don't follow through.  This will effect your confidence and your self esteem- and we just don't what that to happen!

You always say that Mom used to let you 'wuss' out of things when you were little.  Although she had good intentions, she would call you out for a test you weren't ready for or call you out if someone was picking on you, etc.  When you were younger you thought that was cool, but looking back you've said yourself that you wish she would of made you stick through it.

So, KNOWING THAT, you should realize that YOU determine what you stick with (which should be everything you commit too).  Just because mom or your teacher or your counselor or whoever says that 'it's ok to quit,' does NOT mean you have to listen!  Decide that you will follow through for you! 

I've told you time and time again that you are truly capable of anything you put your mind too.  Who cares about the minor details or if it doesn't end up being perfect. You can not cop out of things when things get hard.  You are better than that! 

Meg you can finish this semester out, and you can finish it out strong! Say to yourself outloud ten times, "I can do this!" Study your BUTT off for that final and get it done- you have like three classes left. Prove to yourself that you have truly grown and become stronger from all you've been through.

Time to move forward and get this done! I'm so proud of you, you are almost there!

Sorry if it's a lil tough love tonight- I haven't eaten dinner yet... and you KNOW how I get when my blood sugar is low bahahahaha :)

Love you! YOU CAN DO THIS!

"Winners never quit and quitters never win." -Vince Lombardi

XOXO,

Brooke

Bullies

Dear Meagan,

You may have noticed I'm writing my blog a day later in the week than usual lol :) I guess I wore myself out yesterday because I feel asleep unintentionally 2 hours before my normal bed time haha. So you get your blog on Thursday this week instead :)

All for the better, because this morining I thought of a good topic: Bullies.  I don't know if this ever happens to you but it definitely happens to me sometimes as much as once a week. And that is a run in with a grown up bully! They are worse than childhood bullies, because they aren't bullying in obvious ways that would get them in trouble such as swirlies, or hitting you, or cussing at you about your mama lol.  No instead, they just make snide comments, they point out your flaws in front of your peers, or they make you feel inadequate.

Why do they do this? I know you have heard this before but it's true, they do it because of their inadequacies! There are some 'superiors' that you and I will work with that lift us up, help us grow, and shape us into better people.  Then there are other 'superiors' that we will work with that tear us down, BUT still help us grow and shape us into better people- if we so CHOOSE.

That's right depending on how we handle a run in with a bully, determines whether we let them tear us down or whether we turn it around on them and let it lift us up! When you have a run in with an adult bully the BEST way to handle them is to just smile, apologize, and compliment them- no matter how hard that may be.  Maybe you compliment them later (outside the heat of the moment).  Eventually, they will see your heart and soften up towards you, I promise.

But why are they doing this? And why to you? Because hurting people, hurt people.  They especially like to hurt those who don't seem to be hurting, because they are trying to bring you down to their level.  But I happen to know that you are better than that hurting person :)  Of course dealing with bullies might ruffle your feathers a little, but if you stay strong, you win.  Them bullying you, hurts them more in the end.... because it is not possible to feel good about yourself, when you are hurting others.  It simply doesn't work like that!

I love  you,  hope this helps dealing with adult bullies! Honestly this blog helps me too haha :)

And by the wayyyy... great job at your mAss kickers/ Wigs for kids event!  You got about 10 wigs and $550 for mAss kickers! That's great Meaggy :)  You really made a difference!

XOXO,

Brooke

Hodge Podge

Dear Meagan,

Happy Halloween!!! Heard that Mom was giving out pretzels this year... LAME! lol

This week is kind of a hodge podge of subjects :) hehe

First off, your event is just two days away! So for any readers out there please make sure to call Salon 35 to make your appointment for a regular hair cut or for a donation of 8 in or more to wigs for kids! They are located in Rochester Hills by Olga's, the phone number is (248) 377-9650.  There will also be bowling at classic lanes in Rochester 7:30-10:30! For $20 you get bowling, shoes, pizza & pop... half of all proceeds go to mAss kickers, a non-profit organization that helps young adult tumor survivors get back on to normal life!

Meaggy congrats in advance on planning this event and being empowered by all you have been through :)

A couple of quotes have stuck out to me this week that I wanted to share with you...

"Life BEGINS at the END of your comfort zone." -Neal Donald Walsch

And in the words of Jillian Michaels, "Get comfortable BEING UNCOMFORTABLE!" hehe

Meg you have made SO much progress and continue to do so!  But in order to continue moving forward you HAVE to keep pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone.  You have definietly taken this step in terms of school! This semester you are taking your German class and you have STUCK WITH IT like a champ! You go even when you don't feel like going, which is exactly what you need to do to succeed.  But now I hear you are taking three classes next semester, that is great Meaggy!  You are pushing your limits, challenging yourself and growing from it! Way to go!

Now it's time to do this in other areas as well... in order to accomplish your goal of being completely independent you gotta get used to the idea of living on your own and out of the house!  Soooo it's time to plan a sister sleepover! Just tell me what works for ya :) Keep growing and getting uncomfortable, because that is where life begins!

I hope you are reading the books I got you for your bday (and enjoying the scarf in this cold weather!)

Love you girl!

XOXO,

Brooke

Your 22nd Year!

Dear Meagan,

Well tomorrow is the big day when my little sister turns 23! I seriously can't believe it... and I can't wait to celebrate with you Friday :)

During this past year you have gone through your fair amount of struggles- this kidney thing being the latest. But last year on your 22nd birthday was probably the lowest point for you emotionally in your recovery. I don't know if you even remember all the things going on (your short term memory was also pretty low at that time)... but  it was rough to watch you go through :/

Meagan Anne from Japan, LOOK AT YOU NOW!!!!!!! I can NOT believe the INCREDIBLE progress you have made in the last year! It is a true miracle and ABSOLUTELY astonishing!  Whenever I talk to you I can't help but smile from ear to ear just thinking about the 180 degree turn you have made... You went from barely surviving to absolutely thriving!

You have turned your life around and broken free from some of the thoughts, people, and habits that used to set you back....

Here is a list of what you have accomplished in your 22nd year:
- You started school again
- You planned/ are planning an amazing charity event
- You started caring about you and taking care of yourself again
- You turned your struggles into victories
- You improved many of the personal relationships you have with others
- You decided to start growing personally
- You grew stronger emotionally and physically
- You got involved with the mAss kickers group
- You developed a positive attitude
- You got back A LOT of your short term memory

I still can't believe it's you from one year ago! I am SO proud of you and I mean that with every ounce of who I am. The best part? There is so much more to come... your road will still have bumps, but it WILL only get better from here because YOU made that decision!

You are so special, I love you! Happy Birthday 23rd sista! 

XOXO,

Brooke

Think Creatively

Dear Meagan,

I am still reading the book, The Magic of Thinking Big.  It's an amazing book, when I'm done I will let you borrow it if you want!

One of the chapters I just read was about thinking creatively- this will allow you to achieve things you never thought possible...

Here are some main points from the chapter:

1. Here is a quick test. If I were to say, " Regular business hours should be 1pm to 9pm instead of 8am-4pm... or presidential elections should be every two years..." What is your reaction? If you automatically say no, that elections have always been four years and they should stay that way or that business hours are just fine as they are and that's that... then you may be a victim of traditional thinking.  In order to grow and create new ideas you can not be paralyzed by traditional thinking. Companies and people who grow with the times, prosper.

2. Stretch yourself socially. It is important for us to associate with our peers and people in life situations similar to ours, this is where we are comfortable.  However, in order to get other perspectives and ideas to bring into your own life, it is necessary to associate with people who are different than ourselves.

3. Believe whatever task or challenge you face can be done.  Your mind will naturally stretch and find ways to accomplish the task.  If before facing a challenge, you convince yourself it can not be done, your mind will automatically close. SO, when you are looking at something difficult, say it CAN be done!

4. Every morning when you wake up or as you are getting ready ask yourself, 'how can I do better?' There in never a limit to self improvement. When you continuously ask yourself how you can improve, you will.

5. Also ask yourself, 'how can I do more?' As you get increasingly busy, you will find ways to become more efficient. Being more efficient means happiness, promotion, and fulfilment. Determine how you can accomplish more than what you already are.

Hope this helps your 'road to recovery' Meaggy! I love you- your are doing amazing, keep up the good work! And keep growing, greatness lies in front of you <3

XOXO,

Brooke

Supporting your cause

Dear Meagan,

Hey there girlie :) I hope you are having an amazing week! Happy hump day :)

You are stepping into your new role as a leader and charity organizer so gracefully. And today I just wanted to write about how to keep that role pure and thriving! Again, I am no expert but the years of coaching helped me to understand this a bit. 

When you are running a charity, or a team, or an organization where you need peoples help, love and support you have to show publicly that you are helpful, loving and supporting <3  Which of course you are! On your donation website for the mAss kickers event you are hosting, you said that you do not view your surgeries as a burden because the tumor affected your personality, and made you an 'angry person.'  This is a great example of laying it out there and showing people your strength and how your cause deserves their support. And for the record while we both had our fair share of tantrums growing up, I completely agree that you have grown into an amazing young woman and I thank God every day for the difference your making around you!

To keep support rolling in for your event... be sure to keep a positive image about the event and about you!  Show people your heart and how passionate you are about this cause! Maybe even make  your Facebook picture one of  your tumors suck bumper stickers or the one of you holding the paint ball gun at the mAss kickers event with a description. The more passionate you are, the more passionate others will be as well.

So keep promoting and I'll keep doing what I can too! Just remember to keep your image positive and more people will help support your cause!

And for any readers out there- make sure to schedule your hair appointment at Salon 35 on Nov. 2nd for Meagan's cut-a-thon event.  Even if you are not donating enough hair for a wig, half of the proceeds from all cuts and waxes will go to mAss kickers- an amazing organization which has helped Meagan and other young adult tumor survivors tremendously!

Love you Meggy! Still amazed by you, my living miracle <3

XOXO,

Brooke

Wigs for Kids/ mAss Kickers Event!

Dear Meagan,

This blog is intended entirely to help advertise your upcoming event! I am SO proud of you for planning and implementing this. You are making such a difference and I am just so excited for you and all the people your event will help! Go Meaggy go!

Salon 35 Cut-A-Thon Event Information!

Host: Meagan Sutherland, a brain tumor survivor
Charities: Wigs for Kids & mAss Kickers
Donations accepted: 8 inches or more of hair to make wigs for children in need
                               Shorter lengths of hair can be donated, which will help with manufacturing of wigs
                               50% of hair cut and wax costs will be donated to mAss Kickers
                               Cash donations will be accepted for either foundation
                               $2 raffle tickets will be sold for a gift basket
When: Friday November 2nd; 4-7pm
Where: Salon 35- 2568 N. Squirrel Rd, the northeast corner of Walton Blvd. and Squirrel Rd. (right next to Olgas)
Please call Salon 35 at (248) 377-9650 to schedule appointments
Pizza, pop & goody bags will be provided

If you can not attend this event but would still like to make cash donations please visit:
http://www.stayclassy.org/events/meagans-locks-love/e20835

Thanks everyone and let's show Meaggy our support and love!

XOXO,

Brooke

Adding Value

Dear Meagan,

Hi beautiful! So things are absolutely soaring with your upcoming wigs for kids event! You are doing a great job- and I am so excited to help you promote it :) Mom told me part of the hair cuts and cash donations may also go to mAss kickers, which I know is an organization you are very passionate about! You are doing such an amazing thing and I can't believe how self-less yet fierce my sister is!

You also are proving to be an absolute rock star in terms of your class at OU-- a 94% on your first test!?! Who know you were such a smartie ;) Keep up the great work Meaggy- you are such an inspiration! Especially to others who may be going through or have gone through similar situations as you. 


So I am currently reading a book called, "The Magic of Thinking Big" by Dr. David Schwartz.  I felt a recent reading fit in perfectly with where you are at in your development and success!

The section is about not seeing things the way they are, but seeing what them the way they could be.  And as you start to plan things, the ability to see people and things as they could be instead of as they are is crucial.  I feel like you already know this from personal experience sissy :) Just a few short months ago, you saw yourself as the way you were, but now you see yourself as the way you can be- and that has caused so much momentum in you, that I am sure you will achieve your goal of being self-sustained and making a difference in other brain tumor survivors lives- you are already doing it!

So the following three exercises Dr. Schwartz talks about are the "practice adding value" exercises. 

1. Practice adding value to things. Look for ways to make things worth more. A thing has value in proportion to the ideas for using it.  A great example of this is your wigs for kids event. The creation of the event in general is a phenomenal thing- however when you added the aspect of it being a mAss kicker event too- you really added value to it!

2. Practice adding value to people. As you continue to move forward in your life both on a personal growth level and economically, there will be more and more instances of you being in a position to participate in "people development." Continue to ask yourself, 'what can I do to help those around me become more effective and to grow?' The tricky part is in order to bring out the best in a person, you have to visualize them at their best. Always look at people as where they could be instead of where they are and you will be amazed at how they will live up to your positive expectation :)

3. Practice adding value to yourself.  A good way to do this is to conduct a daily interview with yourself.  Ask, 'what can I do to make myself more valuable today?' Again don't just think of yourself as you are, but think of yourself as you could be. This should just get easier and easier for you since you have already begun to do this!  Once you see yourself as you could and will be, ways for attaining your potential value will pop up in front of you, and your potential achievement will become a reality :)

Keep smiling Meggy, keep laughing off the small things, keep growing, keep being self-less, keep being you- because you are truly so unique and special-- the world is lucky to have you!

XOXO,

Brooke

Cautious/ Sensitive Personality Type

Dear Meagan,

Ok, so last week I posted about a seminar I went to where we learned about different personalities. You let me know that you are a cautious type- followed by sensitive!  Here are some of the traits about each of these personalities :)

C-type personality:

Descriptive words: Cautious, compliance wanting, competent, conscientious, cognitive, correct ;), careful, conformist, calculating, consistent, critical thinking, can come off as cold- so be careful of this

Strengths: Gifted, analytical, sensitive, perfectionistic, aesthetic, idealistic, loyal, self-sacrificing, thorough

If personality gets out of control, they can be: compulsive, critical, unsociable, prying, easily offended, fearful, inflexible, doubtful, worrisome, picky

When personality is in control, they are: orderly, logical, intense, curious, teachable, cautious, correct, questioning, conscientious, precise

C types make good:  accountants, architects, artists, authors, bankers, bookkeepers, composers, computer programmers, consultants, dentists, engineers, finishing carpenters, inventors, lawyers, librarians, mechanics, military intelligence, musicians, philosophers, photographers, physicians, pilots, professors, scientists, surgeons, and teachers!

S-type Personality:

Descriptive Words: Supportive, submissive, steady, shy, stable, status quo, secure, sentimental, serving, sameness, sweet, can be a sucker (get run over)

Strengths: calm, dependable, easygoing, trustworthy, efficient, practical, conservative, diplomatic, humorous

If personality gets out of control, they can be: lacking initiative, dependent, used by others, indecisive, uncommunicative, inflexible, resistant to change, easily manipulated, slow and resentful

When personality is in control, they are:  relaxed, reliable, cooperative, stable, good listener, single minded, steadfast, softhearted, systematic, amiable

S-types make good: artists, chefs, child care workers, counselors, customer service representatives, department heads, diplomats, fight attendants, funeral directors, human resource directors, librarians, managers, nurses, painters, pharmacists, pastors, planners, real estate agents, researchers, school teachers, secretaries, social workers, supervisors, technicians, veterinarians, waiters/waitresses



So that's you Meggy! The most beneficial part of learning your personality type is learning your strengths and weaknesses.  This way you can focus on improving your weaknesses, and strengthening your strengths!  It is also important to identify other people's personalities, so when you are dealing with them you know their perspective and can adapt to it!

There is SO much more you can learn about personalities which are in Dr. Rohm's book, Personality Insights. I suggest buying a copy if you want to learn more about yourself and how to deal with others!

I'm so proud of you and what you are accomplishing lately! Keep going girl, there is so much greatness ahead of you :)

XOXO,

Brooke

Personality Insights

Dear Meagan,

Girl, you are on absolute fire lately organizing your locks of love event and rocking your German class! I'm so pumped for you and all that you are achieving :)

So I know you recently read/ are reading personality plus but I went to a Personality Insights training by Dr. Robert Rohm lately and it was very interesting, I thought you may like to know some of the results!

First answer this question:

Are you more outgoing or reserved?

Then answer this question:

Are you more task oriented or people oriented? (aka if you have tasks on your to do list do you like to accomplish those before hanging out with people, or do people come first then tasks?)

If you answered outgoing-task, then you are a Dominant personality type.
If you answered outgoing-people, then you are a Inspiring personality type.
If you answered reserved-task, then you are a Cautious personality type.
If you answered reserved-people, then you are a Sensitive personality type.

Everyone is a unique combination of the personality types so it's possible you could be 51% one type and 49% another!

Dominant personalities like to take charge in situations and are high achievers but can seem bossy.
Inspiring personalities bring the fun and make people feel comfortable but they can be kind of um, flighty.
Cautious personalities are very organized and smart, but they can come off as cold.
Sensitive personalities are very sweet, caring and easily make friends, but can get run over by others easily.

The cool thing about this is that the personality most opposite of yours, is the person you need most in your life.  These people can teach you the most, because they are most unlike you!

Let me know what your personality type is and I will fill you in more, it's fun stuff!

In the mean time, keep rocking it out girlie! You are on your way there is no doubt about that :)

XOXO,

Brooke

Changes

Dear Meagan,

So as you grow and start to experience new things post-surgeries, good and positive changes will be happening around you.  If things never changed we would never get the opportunity to grow and be the person God intended us to be. We just have to have faith that whatever is changing is good for our big picture. 

I am so proud of you taking your German class and getting back on the horse :)  It's a change in your life, and it's for the better.  This change is helping you get to your goal of sustaining and providing for yourself.  Some big changes can be a little intimidating, but as long as you take them in baby steps and just roll day by day with it, you won't have any problems!

Change is necessary throughout life, and people who adapt to the changes they encounter are able to succeed and live a satisfying life.

Here are some reasons that change is good from the inspirationreport.com:

1). Changes makes you flexible. Being stubborn and resistant to new things will make a normally stressing situation even more so. Change helps you be fluid and go with the flow. 2). Change makes you smarter. If things never changed, you’d never learn anything new. And every time you learn a new skill — even if it’s just how to adapt — you are that much smarter than you were yesterday.
3). Change reminds us that anything is possible. It’s easy to think that anything that’s stuck will always be that way (i.e., the career that won’t lift off the ground or the marriage that’s coasting on neutral). But when you see things change, whether it’s in your life or some one else’s, it’s encouragement to know that nothing stays the same forever.

So embrace change! It's how we grow, move forward, and achieve the things we want out of life. Whether the change is taking a new class (way to go), moving to a new apt, or adopting a pet; the positive changes will help you achieve your goals!

I love you girl! See you Saturday :)

XOXO,

 

Brooke

Learn to laugh at yourself

Dear Meagan,

First off I just have to say, great job with your kidney surgery! I am proud of you and admire you for fighting through the challenges, knowing that god is preparing you for something great :)

So this blog is just going to consist of a quick life lesson that in my (not so professional) opinion is the best lesson we can learn:

"Learn to laugh at yourself"

Which strangely enough can go hand in hand with:

"Get back on the horse"

As you and I know NO human being is perfect, not a single one, in fact no one is even close. We ALL make mistakes, big ones, small ones, medium size ones... but we all make mistakes and often! 

When you make a mistake there are two ways to handle it...

1) Get really embarrassed, curl up into a ball, avoid confronting people your mistake may have affected, admit defeat, and feel lousy about yourself.

OR...

2) Shake your head, roll your eyes, and LAUGH! Think, "oh my gosh here I go again..." and laugh OUT LOUD, tell whoever the mistake may affect that your sorry (depending on the situation perhaps with a smile on your face) and you can't believe you are so silly sometimes... but hey your human, and you make mistakes just like everyone else. Next, think of how you can prevent it in the future, smile, and feel good about the learning experience.

I bet you know which one is the correct one :) But how does that relate to 'get back on the horse'?

When we laugh (out loud) at our mistakes then we don't beat ourselves up or get down about our quirks, instead we evaluate, smile, and move on aka 'get back on the horse.'  There is no need to be upset about a mistake you have made, even if it has happened before. Make a mental note about how you can improve in the future, smile and your good to go.

I want you right now to think about a recent mistake you made....

Got it? Now think about being in that situation and making that mistake, but don't let yourself feel the guilt. SMILE about it, shake your head and  LAUGH OUT LOUD... here we go again, right? Trust that it's OK, think to yourself what you will do next time and let out one more laugh before tucking it away and moving on with your day.

Always remember no matter how big the mistake your family will ALWAYS love you. All you have to do is laugh as you learn and try to improve in your personal growth every chance you get.

Love you sista! Can't wait to see you this weekend :)

XOXO,

Brooke

Surgery Prayer :)

Dear Meagan,

So tomorrow is the big day! I know you are excited to get it over and done with. They are just putting a temporary shunt/stint in your kidney to hopefully solve this 'blockage' and see what the deal is. So we are just hoping it works, issue solved, and when you are ready they can put the real deal in there! I love you girl, you are an absolute CHAMPION and FIGHTER and this little operation is so tiny compared to what you have already overcome!  You have shown us that the saying, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" is an absolute truth.  And your strength is going to come in handy tomorrow :)

Ok so I definitely did not write this prayer entirely myself but this is what I will be praying for you tonight and tomorrow and if anyone is reading this please pray for her too! We want this shunt/stint to be the solution and for the surgery to go smoothly and quickly without complications :)  We already know Meagan can pull through everything- lets reassure that with this prayer!

"Loving Father, I entrust Meagan to your care tomorrow morning; guide with wisdom and skill the minds and hands of the medical people who minister in your Name. Lord, I trust there will be no further complications following this operation, grant that every cause of illness be removed, so she may be restored to soundness of health and learn to live in more perfect harmony with you and with those around her. Through Jesus Christ. Amen."

Love you sis! Your a rock star and you can do this <3

XOXO,

Brooke

A Hiccup

Dear Meagan,

Sooooo... we just found out that one of your kidney's isn't doing what it should (silly thing). And I just wanted to take this blog to tell you how proud of you I am for not letting this 'hiccup' effect you. 

In one week (ok 8.5 days) you'll get that little tiny shunt put in there to see if it'll help make you as good as new ;) And EVERY, I mean EVERY time I've talked to you about it, you have been so positive it amazes me!

You just say, "Ugh my kidney hurts, can't wait to get this over with so I can move on!" Now THAT my friend is the right attitude :) On your facebook wall I wrote that at this point, we know you can get through anything and I mean it!

Meggy you have overcome more than what a lot of people have to deal with in a lifetime, and your only 22! You have INCREDIBLE strength. I know it's hard to look at the good things that have resulted from your struggles.  But I hope your "I can do anything" attitude about your kidney surgery helps you realize that you have developed the ability to overcome any obstacle.

Anything that you set your sights or your hopes on, you can achieve.  Some things may be harder than others, but you have strength that I admire, all obstacles will be nothing but 'hiccups' to you! At first I was going to call this post 'a bump in the road' but honestly it's not even that to you! It's not even as big as a bump in your mind, just a small 'hiccup.'  Meggers that is AMAZING!

I love you and I just really hope you know that whatever goals you write down, and consistently work towards you can do.  I believe you will be fully supporting and taking care of yourself in the next couple months with all of the progress you have made, which is unbelievable :)

So soooo soooooo PROUD of ya sis!

XOXO,

Brooke

People Principles

Dear Meagan,

Our relationships with people are absolutely everything. Sometimes it seems IMPOSSIBLE to get along with certain people and well these principles aren't a 100% guarantee to understanding people and relationships, they sure clear things up quite a bit! We have to remember that the world consists entirely of other people except for one minor exception (you), and because of that our success, happiness, peace of mind, and (hopefully low) stress level depends on how we interact with people.

Again, I am not the expert here just quoting the experts to help you on your journey of recovery :)  I know it's hard to relate to some people who don't know what you've been through. And I know some people have been down right rude, not knowing where you've been and where your going.  These principles, written by John C. Maxwell in his book, "Winning With People" should help you figure out how to relate to people again post-surgery and post-recovery, moving back into life as we know it <3 I've included some of my interpretations underneath a select few! It's long so bare with me :)

The Readiness Question: Are we prepared for relationships?

• The Lens Principle: Who we are determines how we see others.
• The Mirror Principle: The first person we must examine is ourselves.
• Often in relationship problems (not just romantic relationships, relationships with anyone) we are quick to blame, sometimes we need to look in the mirror and figure out where the responsibility lies in us.
• The Pain Principle: Hurting people hurt people are and are easily hurt by them.
•  When someone is hurting you and it seems unfair, try to understand it is just because they are hurting, and unfortunately hurting others is how they often cope.
• ALSO, if others are offended very easily by comments it may not have to do with what you said, it may just be because they are hurting emotionally.
• The Hammer Principle: Never use a hammer to swat a fly off someones head.
• Make sure your reactions are appropriately sized to what's at hand
• The Elevator Principle: We can lift people up or take people down in our relationships.

The Connection Question: Are we willing to focus on others?

• The Big Picture Principle: The entire population of the world-with one minor exception- is composed of others.
• The Exchange Principle: Instead of putting others in their place, we must put ourselves in their place.
• Just like walking in someone else's shoes :)
• The Learning Principle: Each person we meet has the potential to teach us something.
• The Charisma Principle: People are interested in the person who is interested in them.
• Show interest in people and they will (usually) return the favor
• The Number 10 Principle: Believing the best in people usually brings the best out of people.
• People live up to our expectations of them, so make sure they are positive
• The Confrontation Principle: Caring for people should precede confronting people.
• When you must confront people, make sure you show you care FIRST.

The Trust Question: Can we build mutual trust?

• The Bedrock Principle: Trust is the foundation of any relationship.
• The Situation Principle: Never let the situation mean more than the relationship.
• Especially @ the Jersey Shore ;)
• The Bob Principle: When Bob has a problem with everyone, Bob is usually the problem.
• My personal favorite!
• The Approachability Principle: Being at ease with ourselves helps others be at ease with us.
• The Foxhole Principle: When preparing for a battle, dig a hole big enough for a friend.

The Investment Question: Are we willing to invest in others?

• The Gardening Principle: All relationships need cultivation.
• The 101 Percent Principle: Find the 1 percent we agree on and give it 100 percent of our effort.
• This is perfect for people you just CAN'T get along with, find the 1% you two agree on, and just talk about that.
• The Patience Principle: The journey with others in slower than the journey alone.
• John  Maxwell uses traveling as an example here... traveling with others may be more hectic and A LOT slower than traveling alone, but traveling with others is so much more rewarding.
• The Celebration Principle: The true test of relationships is not only how loyal we are when friends fail, but how thrilled we are when they succeed.
• <3 this one as well, you can tell a true friend by who is truly happy when you do well!
• The High Road Principle: We go to a higher level when we treat others better than they treat us.
• Next time someone is treating you bad, treat them extra nice. The reward? A better feeling about yourself AND seeing the confused look on their face :-P

The Synergy Question: Can we create a win-win relationship?

• The Boomerang Principle: When we help others, we help ourselves.
• Help others as often as you can, even when there is no promise of reward.
• The Friendship Principle: All things being equal, people will work with people they like; all things not being equal, they still will.
• Let's say you love your hair dresser, but you hear of a cheaper one down the road, chance are you will stick with your current hair dresser because you trust & like her
• The Partnership Principle: Working together increases the odds of winning together.
• The Satisfaction Principle: In great relationships, the joy of being together is enough.
• I <3 hanging w/ you! <3

Hope this helps Meggy! Thanks for reading- super long this week! I love you girl, every night I pray for God to make you a miracle :)

XOXO,

Brooke

You have to push through

Dear Meagan,

A little poem for you :)

When you are tested

When you feel rested

You should conquer what you do

But when you are tested

You have to push through

When you are feeling your best

The world will throw life at you

That’s the test

And at that time you cannot rest

You must never, never give up

Only 5% of people achieve the dreams

They push through every slip up

They know what perseverance means

Success doesn’t come to those who crumble

It doesn’t come to those who whine

It does comes to those you fumble

And decide to continue, every time

Achievement is an entity we all can own

But it doesn’t happen when we moan

It happens when we overcome struggles

It happens when we pop our bubbles

To get comfortable,

You have to get uncomfortable first

You have to push yourself

Until you could burst

The trick to being all you can

Lies in every single woman and man

When times are tough

And things look a little rough

You have to decide

That you won’t take the easy ride

You have to decide that you will get up

That you will take the stairs and not the slide

That you will take the responsibility

Instead of giving blame

You will take the high road

Instead of the shame

When you feel rested

You should conquer what you do

But when you are tested

You have to push through

You can do ANYTHING Meagan Ann from Japan :)  When things are rough, look at it as an opportunity to grow and overcome the challenges!

I love you always <3

XOXO, 

Brooke

I Hope You Dance

Dear Meagan,

This song will ALWAYS remind me of you. I love you and through all of your struggles, I HOPE YOU DANCE :)

I Hope You Dance lyrics
Lee Ann Womack
Songwriters: Sanders, Mark D.; Sillers, Tia;

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty-handed

I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens
Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance

I hope you dance
I hope you dance

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Living might mean taking chances but they're worth taking
Lovin' might be a mistake but it's worth making

Don't let some hell-bent heart leave you bitter
When you come close to selling out reconsider
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance


I hope you dance
(Time is a wheel in constant motion always)
I hope you dance
(Rolling us along)
I hope you dance
(Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder)
I hope you dance
(Where those years have gone)

I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens
Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance

Dance
I hope you dance
(Dance)
I hope you dance
(Time is a wheel in constant motion always)
I hope you dance
(Rolling us along)
I hope you dance
(Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder)
I hope you dance
(Where those years have gone)

Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder
(Dance)
Where those years have gone
(Dance)




I also hope this song brought a smile to your heart <3 I don't know how you feel when you hear it-- but whenever I see you read that little book you have, or whenever I see you listen to this song... you just look alive, full & whole... I hope you dance for the rest of your days:)

XOXO,

Brooke

Sisterly Love

Dear Meagan,

Growing up all sister's no doubt have their up's and down's-- the down's are usually during the growing up phase, but it's mostly up's from there! I'm so glad we've become so close and such good friends and in honor of that I thought I would fill this week's blog's with quotes on sisters! I love you and Amanda sooooo much and I think God picked the perfect sisters for me!

"No matter who you've become, your sister knows where you began, how it all started. She may be the only person who has the ability to recount every good, great, or stupid thing you've ever done. She understands the girl inside the grown-up woman you are today, and that is no small thing."

"If your going to break a house rule, it's best to do it together."

"No matter what the scheme, you can always count HER in."

"The definition of cooperation: Cramming a mountain of hair products, a ton of makeup, a hairdryer, a set of hot rollers, a radio, and a couple of sisters into a small bathroom with a single outlet mirror." (so us except make it 3 sisters! lol)

LOVE THIS ONE!:
"You got in her stuff. She got in your face. You shut her finger in the door (okay, accidentally). She kicked you off the couch. But now when you're together, you sometimes laugh so much you feel certain Mom is going to show up and tell you to keep it down. How it can be, nobody knows, but sisters all over the world understand that it is absolutely possible to love somebody who used to drive you nuts- and maybe sometimes still does."

"Your sister will ALWAYS cover for you... for a PRICE!"

"Finally, you got your long-awaited privacy, your own grown-up life, and you wound up calling her all the time, just to see what she was doing. You wouldn't have guessed it years ago while you were yelling at her through the bathroom door, but there's so much comfort, such relief in having someone in your life who has always known you, who gets your jokes, accepts your eccentricities, and shares your deeply held belief that the only acceptable lasagna is the kind made form Grandma's recipe.  That's why a sister is a friend like no other, That's why you wouldn't trade her for anything in the world."

Love these sister quotes, and love you!

XOXO,

Brooke

Steps to Success & Happiness

Dear Meagan,

Jeff & I have a friend/mentor who's wife recently passed away :/ And while that is a bit of sad news our friend wrote 11 steps to happiness and success based on her life; because she was a very happy, loving, and successful person, who can teach us a lot.

1. Be optimistic- This will permanently increase your happiness.
2. Stay close to friends & family- they bring more happiness than money.
3. Give to others- Have more concern for others than yourself.
4. Smile- Always makes you feel better, fake it if you have too.
5. Forgive- People who can forgive have better health than those who don't. Not forgiving someone hurts you more than it does them.
6. Make friends who share your interests or faith- This is  where your tumor and brain surgery/injury groups come in :)
7. Have faith.
8. Always have something in your calendar to look forward too- Even if it's as simple as a day in the park.
9. Follow your gut- Make decisions because they feel right and then make those decisions work.
10. Make enough money for your basic needs- Money won't buy you happiness but neither does being broke. The average American needs $40,000/year to cover their basic needs comfortably.
11. Find happiness in whatever it is you do in life- Find work you love and stay there. 83% of Americans don't like their jobs, be the 17%.

Hope this helps girlie :) I'm telling you the woman who this is based off of REALLY had it figured out. Short and sweet this week... I love you sis!

XOXO,

Brooke

Reap A Destiny

Dear Meagan,

I am so excited for you and proud of you goal list!!! Here's the thing about goals-- lifelong ones are often not accomplished in one day.  It is our daily habits that determine whether or not our goals are achieved.   Here is one of my favorite, favorite quotes:

"Sow a thought and you reap an action;

sow an action and your reap a habit; 

sow a habit and you reap a character;

sow a character and  you reap a destiny."

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Basically positive thoughts about your goals lead to action towards them-- actions lead to habits-- daily habits determine  your personality or your character-- and your personality determines your destiny!

Below is the list of goals you made and I have added some 'suggested' habits or actions for you to take! You may have some better ideas than me... and if you do that's great- go for 'em! I'm just making suggestions to get ya thinking, but of course the actions you decide on are up to  you-- just make sure to decide and write them down :)

 

My bucket list of goals :)

by Meagan Sutherland on Saturday, June 30, 2012 at 6:16am ·

• Family- 2 kids, most likely because I really didnt enjoy being a middle kid but looking back on it I would consider it because it wasnt so terrible. If there were 4 kids it would be doable because there is not 1 specific middle child 
• For a mom-to-be it's never to early to start learning how to be the parent  you want to be! Start reading about parenting, either magazines or books. Sit down and determine how you were 'parented', what you liked and what you want to improve upon (even though you are perfect Mom & Dad ;) Love you!). These habits will lead to some fabulous kids someday!
• Influential- help nero-injury people
•  So you definitely are already taking steps towards this by contacting neuro or tumor recover groups.  The next step is to start attending events and/or asking how you can help and then following through with your responsibilities!
• experential- learn how to avoid getting annoyed and to help others recognize theyre getting annoyed
• The absolute best way to improve on your patience and people skills is to read books about patience and people skills. I know you are reading Personality Plus right now, a great book for learning about people, personalities, and temperaments! Let me know when you are done and we can get you more to read! But 15 minutes a day of reading out of these books will do WONDERS. You'll be able to help yourself and others as well!
• physical- be able to run fast.. "I wanna go fast"
• This is a great goal to take in baby steps! Start by just walking around our block everyday... once  you've mastered that move to a 'mall walk', you know the one where you wiggle  your butt? Lol... Keep advancing until you 'go fast'!!!
• travel- hit up the amazing places my grandparents have visited.. defintley alaska
• I'm a traveler too, must be in our blood!  Traveling is amazing but you need one thing- $$$!!! Open a checking account for traveling and every check or gift you get put5% in your travel account or whatever you see fit.  Even if you don't want to travel for a couple years this goal is only a wish until you start taking action towards it.  Once the action is taken it's a goal that can be achieved!
• financial- make enough money to support myself and be happy that im no longer stuck in a materialistic mindset
• This is GREAT Meggy! I know your so close to being completely independent again and this goal is necessary in order to accomplish that. Again start small and work up to it-- If you were to jump into a 40 hour a week physical labor job-- it might not last very long lol. But start just a few hours a week and again follow through with the responsibility. There will be plenty of days you would rather bite off your arm than go to work but that's when you remember this goal.  That's when you remember that your daily actions determine your destiny.

Daily actions determine your destiny but even before that, our thoughts determine our actions.  I'll touch on that next week.  I love you Meagan Ann from Japan! The world is your oyster!!!

XOXO,

Brooke
  

Goal Setting

Dear Meagan,

I am so stinking proud of you! Lately you have been setting a lot of goals for your life and that is absolutely amazing. The key is to get your goals, write them down and then focus!

As you have been setting your goals I have been reading a book called The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson.  It's an amazing book that talks about praying through you biggest dreams, goals and desires.
It's a spiritual book, so this is a spiritual blog! Since I'm not a goal setting expert I think it will be best if I share with you the authors guide to writing life long goals. Life long goals are important because it puts everything into perspective and gives you something to constantly pursue.  After reading this I was inspired to make a lifelong goal list of over 100 goals, and I hope you are too! I may not achieve EVERY single one of them in my lifetime, but hey I won't achieve any of them if I never set them, right? It's the same for you, shoot for the moon, if you miss you will end up amongst the stars! Love ya sis, here are his guidelines, with my interpretations...

10 Steps to Goal Setting:

1. Start with prayer. Whenever you have a new goal pray about it first or if you make a lifelong goal list than pray over the whole list, it will let God know that you mean these things. Then you have to continue to pray like it depends on Him, but work for the goals like it depends on you!
2. Check your motives- Goals with misguided or selfish motives are not going to be achieved. Well maybe, but it wouldn't be worth it anyway.  If one of your goals is to make $1million dollars, make sure you have good reasons, yes you want $1 million so you can be stinkin' rich, but maybe you'd like to give some of it to a charity as well.
3. Think in categories- When making a lifelong goal list it's easiest to break it down into several categories... here are the categories Mark Batterson recommends with an example:
                -Family: Get married & have 2 kids
                -Influential: Help 5 teens who had brain tumor's through their recovery
                -Experential: Take a sewing class with Mom
                -Physical: Run a 5K
                -Travel: Pet a monkey in Costa Rica
                -Financial: Make $1 million in 1 year and give $100,000 to charity
4. Be Specific- The more specific your goal, the better! For example don't just say: "Go to Costa Rica" say, "Pet a monkey in Costa Rica." That way when you are actually petting that monkey you will have such fulfillment in achieving a lifelong goal.  Instead of saying "Be Rich" set an actual $$ amount, this way you will know with out a doubt when you have achieved it.
5. Write it Down- This step is ABSOLUTELY crucial! Write down your goals and read your list regularly to keep the goals fresh in your mind.  There is something about writing them down that makes them permanent.
6. Include Others- This can have many meanings. One is to include others in your actual goals such as take a sewing class...with Mom. You have someone else you want to do this with. It also means share your goals with someone that you trust and that will encourage you-- it holds you more accountable to them as well.
7. Celebrate Along the Way- As you achieve goals, make sure to celebrate and recognize them! Once you have helped those 5 kids or whatever your goal may be-- treat yourself!
8. Dream Big- The bigger the better-- set goals that just blow your mind. Set goals that you could never accomplish on your own, give God a chance to show of his glory!
9. Think long- The bigger the goal, the longer the time frame! The trick is to never give up, these are lifelong goals that may take a LIFELONG to achieve!
10. Pray hard- Don't just pray, pray through. Pray until your goals are achieved and never stop. God answers prayers, period. That's what He does, sure some are unanswered, but there are reasons for those unanswered prayers! Just have faith and pray like it depends on God, but act like it depends on you.

Get crackin' Meggy! I hope you read this and make that lifelong goal list-- it will give you such a sense of purpose! You were made for greatness and your biggest struggles will turn into your biggest victories :)

XOXO,

Brooke

What I Like About You

Dear Meagan,

What I Like About You:

1. Your strength- This had to be #1. We didn't know your strength until it was tested four years ago, but if you can make it through this, you my friend can make it through ANYTHING.
2. Your determination- Even with some of the devastating blows and negativity, you are still determined to get better.
3. Your vision- You are always talking about your future and it sounds amazing :) The wedding, the kids, the goals you have, the world is lucky to have  you!
4. Your generosity- I always am hearing of a new brain tumor foundation you are talking with! I think it's incredible that you are already giving back to a cause that so recently effected you.
5. Your loyalty-  When someone close to you lets you down- your first reaction is that you don't care and you don't like them anyway.  But within five minutes (if that) you are saying  you don't understand and you just want everything with that person to be okay. That's because you don't let disappointments break you and you have such faith in your close friends and family.
6. Your courage- Little by little you are more and more ready to face the world head on again. Watch out!
7. Your support- I don't know how, but through everything you've been going through you have ALWAYS been there for me. Excited for the good things and there to talk about the not so good. I love you so much for this.
8. Your Meagan FACES!!- haha since you were a BABY you have always had those Meagan faces.  Anyone can read you like a book, it's to funny!
9. Your laughter- When your smiling and laughing I think angels start singing lol.  It's so contagious! You have such an incredible ability to make those around you just enjoy themselves!
10. Your sense of humor- You make the best of some crazy situations. When you were still slightly paralyzed on your left side you had that cane. And you decorated it and told everyone to call you Phyllis because it is an old ladies name bahahaha... I don't know many 19 year olds that could pull that off!


In order to stick with the theme of this posting I have re-written the words to the song "What I Like About You"!! I think it's in the Shrek movies. This will either make you laugh or make you cry... about how pathetic I am. Either way as long as you smile, I'll be happy. Cuz that smile is so contagious I know I'll catch it from 90 miles North of you :)

Here goes nothing!:

"What I like about you
You never give up the fight
Your stronger than a bull
and even when you're wrong, you're right! Yeaahhhh!

You're whispering in my ear
Fighting against the odds, to get you here
cause that's true
That's what I like about you!

What I like about you
Your getting better every day
When you go up, down, turn around
You stop and get level and stay! Yeaahhh!


You're whispering in my ear
Fighting against the odds, to get you here
cause that's true
Thats what I like about you!

What I like about you
You turn my frown to a smile
Every time you crack a joke
It makes me hit the tile (so lame)! Yeahhhh!

You're whispering in my ear
Fighting against the odds, to get you here
cause that's true
Thats what I like about you!
THAT'S WHAT I LIKE ABOUT YOU!

XOXO,
Brooke

P.S. I am so going to regret writing that song aren't I? lololol

Meagan's Story

Dear Meagan,

I wanted to start out this encouraging blog with a brief post of your story. Mostly so if there are any other readers, they will understand what this is all about.

I'll never forget the morning Dad called me and said, "We just found out your sister Meagan has a brain tumor-- she is going into surgery in two hours." At first I was just in total and complete shock. I knew you had been having the headaches and dizzy spells and blurred/double vision.  But I just didn't think something like this would actually happen to you.  You were just finishing your freshman year at Michigan State and you and I had FINALLY started getting along and becoming more than sisters, but friends. I remained in shock the entire drive until I was just outside the hospital and had parked my car. I called Dad to discover you had already gone in to surgery.  At that point I lost it Meggy. There I was in a McDonald's parking lot hysterically screaming crying (Probably quite the scene for someone trying to enjoy their Big Mac lol). I was upset about the situation but in reality I just wanted so bad to be there for you before the first surgery.  To tell you everything would be fine. 

They removed the clementine sized tumor from the right lobe of your brain and the next month and a half or so you were in the hospital where you had another surgery, gamma radiation, and recovery time.  At first we were scared because you were completely paralyzed on your left side, after a couple weeks though you could finally move your toes and that was such a blessing. 

That summer I was blessed with a light schedule, so I got to be with you at least 4 days a week, and stayed with you about 2 nights a week. Sometimes you were scared but girl as you were getting better we had some fun :) We would go to the garden, watch movies, do photo shoots, and your nurses were just awesome! They were a phenomenal group of ladies.

Since then you've had two more surgeries, one to put in a shunt, one to take it out. Originally, your short term memory was just not there. Especially after the second surgery. You could only remember things from seconds before. It was also very hard for you to get around at that time-- the left side of your body was weaker than your right.

I bet you can not even count how many therapists and counselors and rehabilitation programs you have had to do! But girl HERE WE ARE-- 4 years later. At this point to be totally honest you have had a lot of self esteem hits and negativity around you to the point that you have been having trouble getting back to your life.

This blog is dedicated entirely to you.  To tell you that it's time for your comeback :)  At least once a week I will post something to encourage you, to help you push forward. I have been inspired to do this because I am already beginning to see positive changes in you, and I just hope and pray that this will help you along the way. Your memory is there, and with a small amount of exercise your strength is there too. This blog is to tell you that there is GREATNESS inside of you. You are an absolute gem and deserve the absolute best.

Meggy what happened to you does not define you. It proved your incredible strength, and god has such a phenomenal plan for your life.  You are here for a divine purpose, I truly believe that.


XOXO,

-Brooke