Even so, you know perfectly well that there will be challenges. You may even be a little worried about maintaining that special connection that keeps your relationship solid when you're face-to-face. With a little creativity and a little time, you and your sweetheart are bound to develop some long-distance rituals of your own. In the meantime, here are a few ideas to get you started:
THE VIRTUAL RITUAL
A long-term relationship is made up of hundreds of those little rituals you develop with your partner. Thanks to modern technology, you can still share some of those rituals regardless of distance. Keep having lunch together through Skype. Bring your phone along and chat through the evening walk you used to share. If you're in different time zones, record that show you both love so you can watch it "together" when it comes on in your sweetheart's city. By maintaining a few rituals, you not only continue to bond through them, you also reassure yourself and your partner that you're still united, never mind the miles.
GIVE A LITTLE LOVE EVERY DAY
Writing a love letter or sending a gift every day might not be practical. But here's a way to deliver your most heartfelt sentiments to the one you miss every day. For each day that you'll be separated, write down something you love about her or a quote that makes you think of him. Fold them up, put them in a box, and tell your partner to read one every day at the time she most needs your love and encouragement. It's a great way to still be there when you can't physically be there.
PLAY ONLINE
A little friendly competition is good for a relationship. Help nurture the playful side of your relationship by challenging your partner to an online game, like chess or scrabble or whatever your style may be.
SIT UNDER THE STARS
Unless your significant other is on the other side of the world, you can always draw comfort from the knowledge that-no matter how far away he may be-you're still under the same moon and the same stars. A sappy sentiment, but reassuring nonetheless. Celebrate this little commonality by sharing a moonlit picnic over the phone.
SHARE THE SMALL THINGS
What makes serious relationships so meaningful is that you share nearly everything. No hears more of the details of your day than your significant other, and probably no one else is as good as she is at deciphering the cryptic texts you send about your boss during business meetings. When distance separates you, resist the instinct to broaden your communication. Yes, some details may have to fall by the wayside, but don't forget to send a text about the weird duffle-bag guy in the subway or to give your full review of your new coworker's nose-blowing ritual the next time you're on the phone with your partner. It's the little details that keep you both mindful that this relationship is special.
SEND YOUR SCENT
You don't have to spray your letters with perfume if that's a little too clich'ed for you. But do be aware of how powerful a familiar scent can be. When you and your sweetheart part ways, make sure she has an article of clothing or a blanket or something that would carry your scent. It's a wonderful, wordless way to keep the connection. Fragrances have a way of conjuring up vivid memories and emotions in ways that nothing else can.
Nothing beats real face time, and you'd never be able to fool yourselves into believing that this time apart is no different than your moments together. But there's no need for all-out wallowing. You can still nurture your love from across the miles if you keep in mind the things that make your relationship so wonderful. Romance is all about finding creative ways to celebrate your bond. Consider this an opportunity to expand your repertoire.
