So this is the way it's supposed to be?

[lizziegrace]

I don't want to say too much online, but I almost ruined this new relationship. I got scared because there's much going on in his life I didn't understand. It's okay now. Another thing that scared me so badly was the fact that he treats me well. He's supportive, compassionate and worries about me. And not in a smothering way. And he's not afraid when I retreat. He makes me laugh. He understands.

I have *never* been treated like this in a relationship. It's so foreign. And it's so new and very nice.

[Tyler Durden]

1. Yep.

That's the way it's supposed to be. You are indeed fortunate. It took almost 50 years for me to find it.

[lizziegrace]

2. Took me almost 46

:)

It's for here and now. He's 15 years younger and our lives could very easily take different paths. But, he's set the new standard. ;)

I'm happy for you Tyler. :hug:

[BarenakedLady]

3. That's so cool.

I'm very very happy for you lizzie!

:bounce: :bounce:

:hug:

[lizziegrace]

4. Thanks!

I'm still kind of stunned.

:hug:

[ThomCat]

5. I hope it stays nice.

:hug:

I hope you have a lot of good things happen. :hi:

[lizziegrace]

6. I wish the same for you sweetie

:hug:

[skygazer]

7. Takes some getting used to, doesn't it?

I've been with my SO for over six years now and I still get afraid that I'm going to stupidly sabotage the relationship with my dopey fears.

I just went back to school this spring - the last time I did this, I was with my ex who was supportive on the surface but made subtle digs all the time about how he was neglected and what about the kids and not being around to watch our son when he said he would be and essentially sabotaging my plans.

I guess I kind of expected it to be like that this time. Only this guy hurries home to cook me dinner and clears the table so I can study and buys me flowers because he's so proud of me. It's wonderful and it takes me aback and like you, I'm not used to being treated like that.

I'm getting used to it, though, and I sure do like it. Congrats. :hi:

[lizziegrace]

11. I'm so happy for you!!!

I'm still fighting the urge to run. Silly isn't it? I mean, he's still all guy and is a younger guy at that. We got our signals crossed as to who was calling whom one evening. At 11:45 I get a text - "are you okay? You didn't call." Floored me.

I also got a lecture about not doubting myself. ;)

[Starbucks Anarchist]

8. I hope it stays that way.

:hug:

[lizziegrace]

12. Me too

:hug:

[LostinVA]

9. It is terrific being with someone who treats you great, isn't it?

At first, I kept on thinking, "This isn't going to last -- it can't." But it has.

Congrats.

[lizziegrace]

15. And to you!

Congratulations! :)

[LostinVA]

17. Thanks!

[InternalDialogue]

10. lizzie, I'm so happy you're stunned that way!

You're really lucky that he's all those good things at the same time, and you deserve it. Don't underestimate your part in the equation -- he's treating you so well because he's smart enough to know the value of a really good woman.

Enjoy yourself! Let it grow! Stay surprised and happy!

[lizziegrace]

14. Hey stranger!

I remember telling you I *was not* going to get to become involved with him. It was too scary. But then I decided that even if it blew up in my face, I've GOT to start taking chances.

:hug:

[InternalDialogue]

18. I remember your saying that, too.

I'm glad you had second thoughts about your second thoughts.

:hug:

[lizziegrace]

19. It's my nature

to be contrary. ;)

:hug:

[johnnie]

13. Very cool!

It's good to hear you found someone like that. :hi:

[lizziegrace]

16. Hey Johnnie!!

:hug:

[supernova]

20. That's so sweet

I hope you have my happy years together. :-)

[WCGreen]

21. It called being an adult about it....

I'm so glad you are able to experience what sounds like an unconditional relationship...

[RetroLounge]

22. Is it nice? I wouldn't know myself, but you give me hope...

"And not in a smothering way. And he's not afraid when I retreat." That ruined a potential relationship for me. Being smothered out of fear is just so off-putting I couldn;t take it.

But I think I've actually found it myself, but only time will tell. That and some huge lawyer bills...

:hug:

RL

[lizziegrace]

23. Thanks to everyone!

I try to treat people with respect and compassion. I'm just floored when it's returned in a relationship that's more than friends.

:hug:

One day at a time.