2011 was a tough year that I am glad to not relive. With all that happened, 2012 has to be better right?

– In February, I had a break that led to me quitting my second part time job. While not detrimental, having my “breaks” really is not enjoyable. (Read my post on
to gain further understanding.)

– My father passed away in May… May 20th to be exact. It was a phone call I had been dreading for years,

and it finally came. He was 56 years old… I will have to post on that another time, but in the end, let’s just say alcohol did him in (he died of cirrhosis of the liver).

– The death of my father included my family of 4 driving from Arizona to Minnesota so that I could deal with the funeral decisions (I am the only child and he has no other immediate relatives still alive besides some cousins).

– All year, we (as well as every other person) have struggled financially, but I think I am finally learning to get that under control.

– In October, my son began the early stages of what we would learn at the end of November would be Valley Fever. Check this post out here at
.

– On December 19th,
. That was a fun way to start the holiday season… really, check out that post… craziness I tell you!

– Lastly, the holidays were really tough this year and not enjoyable- at all. Next year, no presents are allowed in my house. I have learned that my kids are just far too ungrateful.

So, all in all, it wasn’t a horrible year, but is certainly can be better in 2012!