Anyone else anxious to get this particular year over with?!

If you would have asked me this a couple of months ago. I would have said yes.

But now things are going great, I don't want anything to change.

Actually, 2011 has been anything but an annus horribilis for me. I finished my first year of grad school in May and since my last final was tonight I am now one semester away from graduating in May '12. The boyfriend and I are stronger than ever and are seriously discussing whether or not we want children. Sometimes I do and sometimes I don't. I have a god son who I spoil the hell out of and its the best of both worlds because I get to do daddy things but get to send him back to his mom. If we had a child or children I'd have to hire a nanny because I don't have the patience, which makes me believe I shouldn't have any in the first place. Thankfully, we both have maintained job security and haven't really been affected by the economy. I definitely count my blessings that I was making smart financial decisions when the economy was great and that we are in a good place.

Come back to me next year if Newt Gingrich or one of those other band of mary twit Republicans wins the Presidency and then I will want to fast forward the next four years. Sure I'm able to keep more of my money when Republicans are in office but their overall policies I just find to be selfish and a slap in the face to working families, those who are disadvantaged, and minorities. Ok sorry about the politics talk since this isn't the politics section.

J eddie...here's wishing you a 2012 that fulfills your desires and expectations!!

Thank you mdterp and congrats on all the good things that have been happening to you. The year started out in the worst way when my mom passed away in February. It has been a very bumpy road since then and almost impossible to maintain any kind of optimism. I am very grateful that I have my 4 siblings to lean on but the first Christmas without mom is going to be very emotional.

I'm sorry to hear about your Mom, Eddie. My deepest condolences.

My mom spent Christmas away from us, last year. It wasn't right and I missed her so. I shudder to think what it will be like once she's really gone.

It's been a very difficult year for me also. Not only did I grieve for the loss of Dennis last Christmas Eve (almost one year already...yikes), then my Mom passed away in September, so I'm facing the holiday without two of the most important people that were in my life. Because Dennis passed on Christmas Eve, I've made plans away from home as I could not handle being by myself. Going to be with very good friends in Palm Springs for a 4-day weekend. I'm very glad 2011 is coming to an end.

While there certainly have been "ups" for the year, the "downs" have dominated here. We both lost our long-time jobs over the course of the year. He found another right away. My situation has been much more complicated, and I am trying to get back to what I was doing before. We are managing ok, but it's not exactly been fun. Am looking forward to a nice even-numbered year (those always seem to be better for me).

January 1st cannot get here soon enough. Ugh.

Ok well now I feel like absolute crap and can certainly understand why you guys would want 2011 over quick, fast, and in a hurry. I'm sorry J Eddie for your mother's passing and rick for your losses, and those affected by job loss. I really hope that we are turning the corner on improved economics and that people without jobs now will find them in 2012. Regarding the loss of loved ones, the first holiday after the loss of a partner or parent has to be difficult and I'm sure there will be tears. I think a good way to honor the person would be to incorporate their traditions and favorite aspects of the holiday (whether it be a favorite food they liked or a way they liked to decorate or their favorite holiday songs or event they liked going to). Definitely take the time to grieve but attempt to celebrate the life and impact they had in the time they were here. Its easier said than done but I hope everyone's 2012 brings good health, brighter days, and fatter wallets.

No need to "feel like crap" You had no way of knowing and it's not like I announced it right away.I like your idea of keeping a favorite tradition of a lost loved one. Mom was always very generous to charity and I think we will try to keep that tradition alive especially during the Christmas holiday.

Here's to fatter wallets and happier times in 2012. My whole year turned on its ear on August 30th, with the successful end of two years of litigation. Too bad my back and neck will never recover. God bless all those suffering right now, no matter what ailment.