:: Our Christmas Miracle ::

This Christmas Eve morning, a miracle occurred.

Not only did I get out of the house baby-less for the second time in two days, but I took my sister-in-law Rachel and my mom to the nail salon. We all got our toes done while the boys watched the kids.

Surprisingly, the miracle isn't that the boys watched the kids. Nope. Our guys are pretty good about that stuff. The miracle is that my mom agreed to get herself her first pedicure ever. This doesn't sound like a big deal, does it? Well, think again. I've been trying to get my mom's beauty-challenged metatarsals clipped, sand-blasted and polished professionally for more than 10 years.

Today was finally the day that ten years of nagging paid off - and it will be one to remember. Rachel and I witnessed a true Cinderella moment when mom's tootsies magically transformed from neglected bear claws to glass-slipper readiness. Major props to the huffing and sweaty manicurist whose blood, sweat and tears made that transformation possible - here's hoping the sweet $20 tip-of-guilt mom flowed her way made the sore muscles worth it.

Mom's toes are now 100% camera-ready, and she enjoyed the experience so much, she said she's looking forward to going again. How's that for a testimonial?!

When I look at my mom's new toes, I see ten shining, hot pink Chiclets of change. For me, they're proof that anything's possible - a true Christmas miracle for 2006.