We've been teetering on the edge of adulthood for awhile now. Despite the constant denial and long phone conversations with Mom and Dad to help figure out what to do in life, we're beginning to stumble over the edge. It's time to face the inevitable: we're adults.

Luckily, there are countless reassuring signs that we are making a graceful (or at least we like to think so) transition into adulthood. You know you're becoming an adult when...

1. You have your own place.

The days of dorm rooms are thankfully over now that you can relax in your own apartment/condo/house/box. Being an adult is pretty comfortable on a queen size bed rather than a twin XL.

2. Your grocery cart is full of more than just cereal and Pop Tarts...

It now contains milk, some fruits and vegetables and sale items thrown in there for a balanced assortment.

3. You build a piece a furniture for your new place.

There were moments when you thought failure was the only option. The instruction book appeared like a dictionary, you swore the company messed up and didn't provide enough bolts (turns out you were sitting on them), or you had to remove Part C because you screwed Part B in incorrectly. Yet despite the obstacles, you built a (pre-made) piece of furniture with your bare hands. Time to celebrate with some cereal and celery!

4. You watch the news...voluntarily.

If you already watch the news on a regular basis (and I'm talking it's not already on in the room and you happen to walk by) you shouldn't even be reading this because you are already a full-on adult. But if you are making an effort to stay informed about world affairs (and potentially kill time before "The Parent Trap" comes on) you are becoming a well-informed adult.

5. You ask yourself really profound questions.

Whether it is what you are going to do with your degree, if this is the right job for you, what will you do with the rest of your life, all questions are valid.

6. You cook your own meals.

Whether you used a recipe from a cookbook, followed the instructions on the box, or are a culinary genius, cooking your own meals qualifies as being an adult.

7. Your summer consists of work and not just play.

Days spent at the pool with friends or aimlessly riding bikes around town are now replaced with internships, jobs, and taking summer classes. At least the money you make can be spent on more groceries, gas, bills, and rent. Yay adulthood!

8. You wake up before noon...

On weekdays. As far as I am concerned, weekends will always be an acceptable time to sleep the day away. Besides, if you know what day of the week it is, that definitely counts for something too.

9. You admit that even though you are becoming an independent adult, sometimes you still need help.

You aren't afraid to reach out for support when things aren't going your way. Besides, even if things are going your way it's always nice to know you aren't entirely alone.