To paraphrase Charles Dickens, 2011 was the best of times and the worst of times for me.

Lessons I wish that I didn’t have to learn this past year:

• That chemotherapy, the accompanying medications and low blood counts cause you to forget a lot of things that happened during treatment

• That two people I considered close friends would belittle my cancer and judge how I handled it

• That the hardest part of treatment is when it’s over because you don’t suddenly feel better – inside or out

• That during menopause you: 1) are hot all the time; 2) can’t sleep well; 3) can’t get wet, even when you’re turned on; and 4) are moody and irritable

• That Philly Matt not only didn’t have my back when the chips were down, but wasn’t an authentic friend or boyfriend

• That not all charities and advocates are truly about the cause

• That there was an expiration date to realizing that Best Boy was right about the fact that we'd be a good couple

• That I have a long way to go before I look in the mirror and like what I see post-cancer

• That the side effects from hormonal therapy for breast cancer can outweigh the benefits of taking the medication in the first place

• That hearing about how great my short hair looks causes me to cringe because I didn't choose this

• That far too many people have encountered the same feelings and reactions that I have during and after treatment

What I’m thankful for over the past year:

• My amazing friends

• Teaching, my students and my university. The joy I experience from teaching has been a huge unexpected blessing for me in 2011!

• Not having to worry about a roof over my head, the clothes on my back, health insurance and food in my stomach

• Best Boy and a dating life that's interesting without much drama

• My doctors

• My health

• The comfort I get from my faith

• Feeling like I’m doing just what I’m meant to do with respect to this site, my charitable endeavors and my advocacy work

Despite so many blessings, I can't wait to ring in 2012. I wish that I didn't learn so many hard lessons this year, but I know that in the long run, I'll look back on this year as one of huge personal and professional growth. For now, though, I can't wait for 2011 to be over, and I'm praying for a peaceful and healthy 2012.

I hope that you all have a wonderful New Year’s Eve and that 2012 brings you much for which to be thankful!!! xoxo