the things that change in a year

Happy 2011! I can't believe it's here. I have officially declared this the year of weddings. I am a bridesmaid THREE times next year! It's amazing. Three of my very best friends from college all got engaged in the end of last year, and are celebrating the big day this year.

I am flying to Arkansas in April for the marriage of my dear, sweet friend Rachel to her love Jon. This picture was taken by Rachel's sister, right as he was proposing. When I looked through all the pictures from this moment, I teared up. This girl is wonderful, and she deserves the amazing man that Jon is. I can't wait to be there on her special day.

Next, in September I am flying to California for the marriage of my hysterical, awesome friend Amanda to her fiance Adam. I've never met Adam, but I know he is a good man. I couldn't be more thrilled for them! I am so excited to finally visit her in California and be there when she walks down the aisle.

In October, I'm driving up to New Jersey for my amazing friend Lauren's wedding. I'm sure you remember this beautiful couple from their engagement photos. The picture above was taken by her sister, right after Evan proposed. I love how happy she looks. Lauren is truly one of my very best friends. I love her so much and I cannot wait to celebrate her marriage to Evan.

My incredible friend Lisette is also getting married in September. She was my roommate when I lived in New Jersey last year. I couldn't have asked for a better roommate and friend. I am blessed to know her. Looking forward to her wedding too!

 And for more exciting news - my lovely sister and her husband Anthony are expecting their first child in August! She is totally preggo. We sat down and looked through Pottery Barn magazines last night, picking out cribs and bedding. Having a baby is so fun, they will be wonderful parents.

Today is also the one year anniversary of my very first date with Michael. On January 1 of last year, Michael drove me around a few towns showing me homes he built. For about 5 years in his early twenties, Michael built houses for his uncle's company. He was proud to show me the work he had done. After that, we went to the movies to see the Blindside.

It's amazing what changes in a year. I fell in head over heels, mad, crazy in love with Michael. I took lots of pictures of his forearms and biceps... for good reason. We went on 10000 dates. We kissed 10000000 times. He sent me 10 bouquets of flowers.

Three of my best friends had a wonderful man get down on one knee and ask them to spend the rest of their lives together. I am going to be an aunt (and a freaking good one too).

2011 is full of love and babies. Doesn't get much better than that.