Do you know what’s it like to be single these days? It’s a nonstop barrage of dating apps, where 90% of people have the same profile. I’m not kidding. It’s like someone wrote down what profiles for guys should look at and they all decided to follow that guide.

Choose one photo with a dog, one photo where you’re dressed up for a wedding, one photo with some friends, but not too many, just a few, just to show how tall you are, one photo of you smiling that’s low key, and one of you either traveling or playing a sport. Add your height into your profile details, something witty or some joke about how you’re looking for your lobster, and BAM! Instant date.

Okay. So I made a bold decision. 

I'm going to say yes this year. Starting today.

Yes to spending more time with friends. Yes to going out even though I'm tired. Yes to traveling. Yes to new places. Yes to things I've never tried. Yes to dates and brunches and nights with no sleep and work the next morning. Yes to meeting new people and yes to trying things that scare me. Yes to asking for what I want and working hard and earning what I'm dreaming about.

“You have to go to Israel.” “It’s a life-changing experience.” “You’ll never forget it.” “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance.”
 
I recently got back from a 7-day trip to Israel. Before I went, all I heard was how amazing Birthright was – from my whole two Jewish friends. They waxed poetic about the friends they made while they were over there, the things they saw, how in touch with their spirituality they felt when they got back. But I wasn’t sure I really believed them. I mean, how much can you change in 7 days?

​It finally happened. After careful planning, wishful thinking, and a little bit of champagne, we all bit the bullet and went wedding dress shopping. (If you're just now hearing about this, read Part 1 before you continue). 

My best and oldest friend, S, flew in from NY to go with me, and another of my best friends, P, and her mom, L, came along as well. My sister was home from school for Thanksgiving, and my parents rounded out our little group.