If we've learned anything this year, it's that life is precious. And while endings are tough, they're also a good reminder to make the most of the time we have.

John Cotrocois learned this when he went on a date with his ex-boyfriend's ex-boyfriend. Michelle Goodman survived it (and much more) when she became a widow at 50. And Natalie decides it's time to leave town, and has to break the news to Jack the Chef.