I will be very happy when 2006 is finally over.

[driver8]

This past year has not been a good one for me or my family.

My father was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer a couple of months ago -- he is currently undergoing chemotherapy.

I have been dealing with a melanoma on the retina of my left eye; I will go to UC Davis next Monday to begin radiation.

My wife's grandfather just passed away.

The department I work in was almost closed down -- that caused a lot of anxiety, let me tell you.

On the other hand:

My children are healthy and happy.

We have a roof over our heads and food to eat.

I have a job I love -- not many people can say that.

[BlueIris]

1. It's good you can be thankful for what you have.

I've been struggling to do that recently. When you have so much pain, it's hard to be positive about the things we should all be greatful for (kids' health, shelter, employment).

But I hear you about 2006. I made some improvements recently, but not enough. So, it just feels like I've been used a lot. And there's not much left because of that. Game over; I'm done. Bring on 2007.

[miss_american_pie]

2. ...

:hug:

[Midlodemocrat]

3. I'll be glad, too. But, frankly, I'm a little afraid of what 2007 will bring.

2001 - My MIL died.
2002 - My mom died.
2003 - My SIL died, leaving behind a 16month old baby girl.
2004 - My dad died and one of my best friend's husband was killed by a drunk driver
2005 - Everyone alive.
2006 - My FIL, who lived with us passed in his sleep. My 14yo son found him. On the day we buried him, my husband was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and hospitalized. One week later, he underwent open heart surgery - quadruple bypass. In Oct. he had a defibrillator implanted.

So, you can see why I approach the new year with trepidation. Hope it is better for you.

And, like you, I am counting my blessings, even when it's pretty hard to do so.

[MissMillie]

4. Seems every year I'm happy to be done w/ the year

I think seasonal affective disorder hits me hard every winter... I don't know how else to explain it. I don't have THAT bad of a life, and I'm not THAT miserable of a person.

:shrug: