My Christmas Gift

Let's see, I got a crabby kiddo that doesn't want to open her Christmas presents, a husband that made a kick ass "meat roll" for breakfast, a headache that loves me so much it's been here for days, a backache that is best friends with the headache, an interrupted nap that was interrupted by my other two fabulous children, and a text message from my brother. Merry Christmas to me!!!

There are some not so pleasant things on the list, but today is fantastic otherwise. I could live without this headache and backache. I went through this a couple of months ago--3 week long headache that required chiropractic visits to cure it. Could be from stress??? What a great time for this to happen! My nap was going well but my daughters called so it was worth the interruption. My brother texting me is a good thing--I guess. he was my favorite brother and I loved him more than anything but for whatever reason, we haven't talked in a little over 3 years. I truly can't tell you what the reason is. Hurricane Katrina happened and we never talked again. A few weeks ago I texted his 17 yr old daughter--got her number from her myspace--and she made it clear she didn't want to talk to me. She was mad because I left all of them. (At 18, I went in the Air Force, and didn't move back home)So it's a surprise to hear from my brother. His texts have been funny and he said he loved me and he would call later. I really don't know if I am ready for an emotional reunion. I am certain it won't be a hi, how are you doing--we will discuss things. Not sure if I am ready to discuss anything. It really is a wonderful thing that he has texted me. It's really the greatest Christmas gift ever. I loved him so much and I truly can't believe it's been so long since we have been in contact. He's 11 years older than I. I was in 2nd grade and he moved to Atlanta and I cried and cried. I remember the day he came home like it was yesterday. I worshipped this guy. I followed him around as much as I could. He was the cool one. Even after I grew up, I still talked to him the most. (I have two other older brothers) I thought the coolest thing in the world was that his daughter and my daughter were born in the same year--his daughter Kaicee was born exactly 4 months after my birthday and my daughter Hailey was born exactly 4 months before his. My oldest brother called once to tell me this brother was in a car accident and he was hurt, but he would be fine. When he told me, I remember my heart falling to my stomach and it felt like I had just died. This guy was the first person I called when I was 19 and had just found out I was (unmarried) pregnant. He was the one I called when I was getting a divorce. Minus my kids and husband, the two people that mattered the most to me in this world was my great grandmother and him. My great grandma passed away 9 and a half years ago so I can't do anything to have her back. So I am a pretty lucky girl to have my brother back.

Life is good. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. My year has been so very blessed since I have come across all of you on blogger.

Kelly-You are my best friend--my soul twin. I love you and I can't wait to see our results next year.

Tiffany-I've known you for a long time. You're crazier than I ever imagined. I'm so glad we reconnected. You know you wish I was your SIL.

Evelyne-You're an amazing woman. You don't give yourself enough credit. You inspire so many. I am glad I found you.

Tina-You my dear are part of the reason I am here where I am today. Your transformation inspired me to get off my booty and get the body I wanted. There are so many women out there that are very inspiring, but YOU are the one that did it for me.

Angela-We can't forget about you. I've been following you for quite some time and have watched your transformation. You had the courage that so many of us only dream about--you stepped up on that stage. You had a dream and you grabbed it. I can't wait to see what more will come.

April-Moose Munch. I am in Oklahoma in podunk so I never thought I would understand what this was--but I saw it the other day. I immediately thought of you! I enjoy reading your blog and can't wait to see your progress this year. With your determination, you will have your Muscle Girl.

Stacey-WOW. You look amazing. Your blogs are so witty and catchy. You're gonna rock it at the Arnold.

Hayley-It was very nice chatting with you. I hope everything is well. We will reach our goals before we know it and we will do it in a sane manner!

Beka-How's Oklahoma? I have to admit, your blog took a twist that I didn't see coming. I never expected you to be a coupon cutting farmer! That's awesome. I grew up with animals and a garden. Can't wait to see what you do in Oklahoma.

Jessica-If I ever have any other kids, I want to be just like you. Your attitude is fantastic--most people think they're preggo so that means they have to eat like a grown man and sit on their bum. (I did!). I love love love that you are are working out. Before "I Define Me", my blog was titled "One Hot Momma". That title needs to go to you!

Jess-Aloha! I love your blog. I am so envious at times--I wish I were there in Hawaii. It seems like you've had such an amazing life. I would love to have experienced 1/3 of what you have. I can't wait to see what 2009 brings-besides Chuck!

Alright you all, there are many many more I would love to address--Erin, Laura, Mandy Jo. I will get to everyone soon. Mackenzie is up and I need to coax her into opening some more gifts.

Merry Christmas!