I didn't read the opening posts because I haven't seen the finale yet (I watch it on the "Nicktoons Channel" instead of regular Nickelodeon so I'm just starting season 3).
But, I have read the last few posts, and I gotta agree that what happened at the end of season 2 was totally wrong.
I did, however, like the campfire episode (most recent one I saw, actually). I liked seeing all the "villains" hanging out and being relatively normal. But, it shouldn't have been necessary. I also don't like the Zuko/Mai thing (I was kinda hoping to see more of that nice girl he went out with in Ba Sing Se).
Interestingly enough, a fanfiction writer named "A.Amishi" wrote a pretty good story that basically amounts to "What should have happened". It's called Destiny. I'll throw you a link: ().
BTW I read WAY too much fanfiction.
Still, I have to say I'm enjoying season 3, so far. I know I'm a year behind everyone else, but that's ok by me. Avatar is probably my 3rd favourite recent cartoon right now (after Code Lyoko, and Invader Zim), and it's hard to screw up a good show like that.
But, I'll bet M. Night Suck-alan is up to the task.