I dig this thread, and I'll tell you why.
Love and relationships can be a beautiful thing. Unfortunately, good ones these days are rare as hen's teeth.
I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I first met my better half, now of ten years. There's been (and will be!) plenty of fun, our share of fights, and we've learned to be better people because of the nature of our relationship. Two people together need to understand there is no such thing as a "perfect relationship." You accept the good with the bad, and the strong move past that and grow stronger. I hate to even think I'd ever, EVER become someone that is "co-dependent," yet this notion is different than being part of a true pairing with another human being. I think I said it before, but no one "completes" you, you complete yourself, whether or not you're with someone. They cannot change you, nor you them...you simply share life, and that's the biggest gift you can ask for when being with another person. Life is dynamic, and both people must adapt if they truly want harmony. This is also different than that word "compromise," which might come up from time to time (yet should never be a power play on one another).
Only experience will really allow you to understand what I'm saying, Zach. She sounds great. Enjoy your time with her, and if she's the one, then she's the one. Sometimes you know right away, but in my case, it was something that built up naturally. It's never forced. It just happens. Some sooner, some later, some never at all.
It's the way it is. I've had my heart broken by lack of returned love too many times, too. When someone recognizes you for you, loves you, and really sees and knows you...it's pretty cool
Much luck, and I personally enjoy your budding relationship and stories. It's refreshing and real.
Be good to each other, always.
8)