This is really some thread! Alot to think about! Firstly: Always Runs: Do I remember correctly were you awaiting a simcha?
As far as your ” friend” all I can honesty say is I don’t think she has the proper tools to work with. I don’t believe she understands at all where you are coming from.I wouldn’t put too much energy in that relationship either. She doesn’t mean bad chas veshalom, she doesn’t know any better.
I want to share a small story with you: By one of my married childrens shidduchim, someone came up with this one: they told my daughter that ” People are saying that my husband is a Baal teshuva”. Do you know what my husbands response was?
“I wish I was a baal teshuva, I’ve been working on it for years!” Chazak!! Be proud!Wishing you much mazel and nachas!!