As always, part of my year-end planning is getting on my blog, wrapping up the current year and looking forward to the next. My two favorite times of year are Labor Day and New Years. For me, they signal opportunities to wipe the slate clean and start fresh. (Labor Day because of the kids going back to school and my life getting back into some semblance of a routine after a structure-free summer and New Years because, well, it's a new year).

Just finished getting my 2012 celebrity death bet list finalized. Barring any surprises over the next 36 hours I'm poised to win the 2011 contest. I'm winning this year with Jane Russell (how I picked her I'll never know), Steve Jobs and Kim Jong-Il (another longshot that panned out). Apologies to any readers out there who may be offended. Then again, I know that my putting them on a list had no impact on their ultimate demise, so I'm still sleeping pretty soundly at night...

I've paid all of the Christmas and other bills, and am ready to start the New Year on a cash basis. I've got an envelope system set up, and am determined to stay on budget, and hopefully pay down the ever-present HELOC. I'll update my totals and see what kind of progress I can make.

On the home front, spent a lot of time with dad this year, due to his nerve problem in June. He pretty much rebounded by Labor Day, then spent the fall trying to pack on the pounds that he lost. He seems to be back to where he was, so I'm relieved about that. I can't believe how expensive it was. Thankfully, he has great insurance, but it makes me appreciate how tough it must be for people who don't. Hubby and the kids are doing well, and work is busy, but can't complain.

Although I haven't posted in ages, I see several SAers on Facebook, and lurk on the blogs pretty regularly. I'm always impressed at the progress everyone is making, and love catching up...

I hope you have a Happy, Healthy 2012!