BB1
.....I've made some items that should have had issues based on my construction but (thankfull) so far are fine.  Guessing the climate controlled environment of our house plays a role.

You are correct. The stable temperature in the house plays a huge role in wood stability.  Still it's best to think about it all the way you are doing. Woodworking is all about the journey. Trying, learning from mistakes, what could be better, making improvements are all part of joy and journey in woodworking.