You have accomplished a lot in 10 months and I think you are very smart to spend some time on theory. It's theory that pulls everything together and things begin making sense and gives your playing a sense of purpose. Getting to understand keys and how chords and scales fit together will be a game changer for you.

Sounds like you are very structured which is great and very important. Relax, take in your accomplishments as they stand. Retention is no big deal. I forget stuff all the time, but once I need whatever I forgot about and spend some time on it, things comes back quickly.

Good luck and have fun with it.