That's awesome! ((((((Abby))))) so proud of you!!
The closest friendships that I have are the ones in which I don't find myself needing to be perfect. My friends know my deepest darkest secrets (well maybe not ALL of them), and as a result, they feel free to share in their own pain with me. I understand the need to be perfect - I am a HUGE perfectionist - but I personally don't find that perfection plays a role in our relationships. No one is perfect, and so no one expects you to be either.
I'm glad you have some more events coming up, and that you were able to get out and do things. That is GREAT! yay!