Steph- I agree with Adrian about long engagements, I don't really see the point of them. But I have six years on you so you have more time for one than I do! Don't want to become an old maid do i??
I don't get any pressure from my direct family (apart from my sister whos 13 wanting to be a bridesmaid) but my Dad's brothers (one of whom has 2 daughters my age both of whom are married years, the other of whom has 2 daughters older than me, neither of whom have boyfriends) give me some hassle sometimes.
My parents truly love Padhraig and his tolerate me (!) so they would all be delighted if we did have news like that, and we will one day. P is a year younger than me too and I think it takes guys longer to be ready than girls (could be that they get nothing out of an engagement except a fiancee, the girls get the ring)
I did feel the girlfriend thing when we were going on hols last year, I insisted that we make wills to take care of each other before we went. When P was in hospital I got tired of being his girlfriend as for all the nurses and doctors knew I could have been someone he'd hooked up with the previous week! On the other hand I like saying "my boyfriend" other times, makes me feel all girlie!
I got really freaked when my friends started getting married last year, I have since been to nine weddings in 12 months and find it normal now!
Here's a question...does anyone think that there is an ideal age for marrying?
I think mid twenties, if you can afford it, and start your family then and have your midlife to yourself with kiddies shipped off to college! There is just so much to cram into one life!