So, my sister got engaged on Sunday. It was really sweet. Her boyfriend/now-fiance, Tyler, called me last week to tell me. I tried to help him out, but really I just did annoying things like send cryptic text messages about biking to communicate what time we were getting in to Abilene so that Leah wouldn’t read his phone and know that the jig is up. Probably the last thing he needed on such a nerve-wracking day.

Because I’m the older sister, I have to offer up unsolicited advice…in the form of a blog series that she can ignore if she likes.  (Here’s my pre-first piece of advice: You will get TONS of unsolicited advice from every one, including your first grade teacher and a scary clown. Just smile and nod.)

But first, here are a few pictures from the proposal:

The Paramount TheaterA blurry shot of the proposal in actionThe Happy Couple!

 

Flowers and pictures in the spotlight on the stageA blurry shot of the proposal in actionThe Happy Couple!

 

A blurry shot of the proposal in actionThe Happy Couple!

The Happy Couple!

My first piece of advice is:

ENJOY THE MOMENT

You’re only engaged once. Don’t let people get you down with the details before you’re ready.  I know everyone will immediately want to know whatcolorisyourbridesmaidsdress?whereareyougettingyourcake?who’sgoingtobeyourflowergirl?whereisitgoingtobe?areyougoingtoinviteme? but at least for a while, take this time to dream and plan your future together. This is your time to slow down and just enjoy being in love with your future husband. Seize the opporunity or I’ll hurt you.

PS- I’m tearing up while I’m writing this. I know you aren’t surprised. This is going to be a long year for my tear ducts.