December 22 , 2004

TIS THE SEASON

The year is coming to an end, so, as per normal, we all are using a bit of time (well, in between getting our holiday shopping done, seeing a movie or two, taking a few naps, and working out...hahahaha) to reflect upon the past year and look forward to the next.

I am so thankful, thrilled, and mesmerized by how fortunate I have been (AGAIN) in the year 2004. I am happy with all the success of my national team, for the first-time Olympians for helping them stand on the top platform, but also for having the fortitude to get through one of my roughest times on the field.

I am grateful for my teammates’ support and belief in me as a person and player. Their trust and respect made my effort easier (with exception of those 800's -- nothing makes them easy or enjoyable). For having the luxury of living with three of my best friends during Olympic training, in one of the most beautiful places in the world, Manhattan Beach, California, and while living there, meeting and befriending some amazing people who I will be friends with forever. For all the mornings we walked to our favorite breakfast joint, Uncle Bill's, to read the paper, chow down and watch the surfers catch a wave.

None of that would be possible or as enjoyable if it wasn't for my husband and son who allow me to attempt to be a better person and player every day. Having them in my life keeps me in balance and alert to the needs of others around me. Sharing the Olympic Games with both of them was tremendous. You probably saw them, shirts off (must run in the family!) with body paint, banging drums and chanting U-S-A at the tops of their lungs. It was a priceless picture.

At Thanksgiving, we all take a moment to say what we are thankful for, and when it got to Cameron's turn, I was touched. He mentioned how he was studying different parts of the world and how in some parts survival is the thing most on the people's minds. He said that he was thankful for being able to sit down to a meal with his family and how important that was to him. Made me remember that the little things in life are the ones that matter the most, and if we don't attend to those, we will never be whole.

I would be remiss if I didn't say something about the completion of my first (who knows, there could be a second) book. With the amazing writing ability of Gloria Averbuch, we were able to put together words that would have made my parents proud. I am forever indebted to Gloria for her hard work, thoughtfulness, interest in my story (and love of soccer) as well as to her family for allowing me to have her for four and a half months. So, overall, I am one fortunate lady.

Oh, last, but definitely not least, to Charlie and everyone who logs on to the itsnotaboutthebra.com website. It's truly more than I ever imagined. How about we all make a pact that in the year 2005 we do some random, out of the blue good deed once a month for a stranger or someone we know, with no need for a thank you, but in hopes they do something nice for someone else.

All my best for a year that brings peace where it is needed the most.

CHEERS!

Your friend in soccer,
Brandi