I ... I'm growing up! I really am. I think that, even though I'm 24, this is the part of my life where I become a woman.

A little backstory: I come from a pretty toxic household. My parents try to be as supportive as possible, and they're accepting but ... Far from perfect.

I met my (28 M) boyfriend online 4 years ago. We bonded through a mutual toxic friend that treated us terribly.

We both love art and music and writing. Both have a strong sense of humor. And...

Both went through very toxic relationships in the past.

We're each other's first healthy relationship. And he's my first... Everything, really! Physical relationship, sex partner, and more importantly -- the first person to actually return all the love I give, and more!

I'm happy. I'm so happy I could cry. I'm finally leaving a horrible, dysfunctional household to a wonderful clean flat with my Beloved. (That's what I call him to friends.)

But it's so much to take in! Before this year I'd never left home before or flown in a plane or been intimate with anyone. Now I'm doing all of that again, and, this time I'll be staying!

I feel anxious and overwhelmed at times, but ultimately free and happy.

Is this what womanhood feels like? Free and happy? I hope so ...