Britney’s back -- for REALS -- and honestly, we're probably as amazed and eagerly anxious as you are. Except for those of you hardcore Britney fans who aren’t shocked at all; both Britney’s personal life and career have been on an upswing, and her just-announced appearance at this Sunday's VMAs may be just the beginning of her total transformation after a chaotic, drama-filled year. Here’s a look back at Britney's top all-time top VMA moments, from the is-she-naked body suit, to the slithering "Slave 4 U" snake, to the Madonna kiss seen ‘round the world.

2001 MTV VMAs: Britney's “Slave 4 U” got a very “Welcome to the Jungle” makeover when Britney slithered onto the stage at the 2001 VMAs in a leafy Garden of Eden-meets-Maxim mag two-piece, enshrouded in an albino python, complemented by a caged tiger, and dancers dressed like zebras. PETA was not amused, but it was one of Britney's most iconic, awe-inspiring performances ever. (Watch the performance here.)

2007 MTV VMAs: Britney continued a scandal-plagued year by opening the 2007 VMAs with one of her most-discussed performances ever.

2008 MTV VMAs: Britney adds to her 16 nominations, (no wins... yet) with three additional nominations (Video of the Year, Best Pop Video, and Best Female Video), shows the world she’s on the mend when she appears with Russell Brand and a massive elephant in promo spots for the 2008 VMAs -– looking more radiant than ever.

We know she'll be opening the show, but what will the big moment hold? We don't know, but if Britney's involved, it's gonna mean we're gonna be talking about it. And talking about it. Will Britney's next VMA appearance be a serious one? Or will it employ some of the syrupy Southern sweetness that originally endeared her to America? Will other celebrities join her on the stage and show their support, or will she make her mark solo?

Watch the 2008 VMAs on Sunday, September 7 at 9pm sharp to see what Britney's got planned for her next VMA mega-moment.