This blog was written by my co-editor Cheryl Clemens:

I’m always thrilled when my friends reach a milestone — getting engaged or married, expecting a baby or even an upcoming graduation.

But last weekend was a first for me. I attended the engagement party for a friend’s daughter.

That’s right. I now have friends whose children are old enough to marry.

And you know what? I didn’t feel old at all. In fact, I was thrilled. Jealous even.

The couple couldn’t be sweeter or more in love, and I’d forgotten how much fun it is to be a part of a wedding in the making. The mother of the bride was the perfect party hostess, and the father of the bride (local dentist Gene Sambataro) gave a toast to the happy couple that had partygoers alternately laughing and crying.

So there it is. A new phase of my life. Baby showers are dwindling, but bridal showers for the children of my friends are starting.

If you’d like to read about how Ryan proposed to Renee at Disney World, check out this link (and while you’re there, feel free to rate their story and help Renee win a fantasy bachelorette party).