I am in some ways glad that it is taking this long to come out. I am currently upgrading my computer and all i really need next is some PC-3200 memory and a new video card. So the longer i have to save up for a video card, the more i can spend on one. Plus, with ATI set to release the R420 core around May or so, then that means a big price drop on the 9800XTs.
So, i am a patient person and there is plenty out there to keep me busy until the good people at valve decide that HL2 is ready for release.