Two years ago, Evelyn Lozada found herself living a nightmare.

But now the Basketball Wives star is living a dream.

In an exclusive new interview with Life & Style, the pregnant reality star opens up about finding happiness after a tragic year.

“I had the worst 2012, I thought my life was over,” she tells Life & Style.

That was the year her then-husband, NFL star Chad Ochocinco, was charged with domestic battery for head-butting her during a fight, for which he ended up serving seven days of a 30-day jail sentence.

“It happened so publicly, and then the passing of my brother-in-law,” she shares.

“But that entire incident [with Chad] led me to where I’m at now.”

Luckily, the seven-and-a-half months pregnant beauty is now in a loving relationship with Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Carl Crawford [pictured below], and they’re expecting their first child together.

carl crawford

“I would say my broken bridge led me to happiness,” she says. “If I had to do it again, I would because I truly feel complete right now in my life and I wouldn’t change it for anything.”

When asked if Carl saved her, she says, “He came into my life at a perfect time. Everything that happened makes me appreciate him 1,000 times more and he also makes me a better person.

“I appreciate everything and I thank God every day for my life…I’m really lucky and really, really blessed.”

Already mom to daughter Shaneice, from a previous relationship, the 38-year-old can’t wait to welcome her little boy.

“He’s going to give me a run for my money! I’m like, ‘Oh my God, he’s going to want to play and get dirty,’” exclaims Evelyn, who recently celebrated a baby shower sponsored by youth H20.

evelyn lozada

“I’m just looking forward to all these amazing things that come with having a boy and a baby.”

One of the many things she’s intent on teaching him?

“I just want him to love and respect all women.”