Love is...

Joshua and I are going on our 9 months in a long distance relationship and we're surviving! It was a tough road to get to where we are now. It took us months to get the hang of it, it was challenging and I admit, it brought out some ugly moments I don't want to live through again. But like any relationship, if you want it, you have to put in the effort to make it work. In this case, going the distance, you know... the extra mile, to show someone you love them and that you're in it for the long haul.

For us and others in a LDR, I feel like showing your love has to come in a different form. You've got to get more creative with it. In a relationship where you're near each other, a simple kiss I love you, a romantic date night or a surprise note on the mirror will suffice. These things... might not be possible long distance. I didn't realize this in the beginning and it really affected me. Long distance is definitely not for me, but for now I've got to deal. So going the distance to me... means actually going the distance to see each other. I recently booked a flight to spend the Labor Day weekend with Joshua. We're so excited for this!

* Extra little tips: video message a love note (perfect to wake up to!), send surprise gifts in the mail, if you can't make him dinner, order take out. Have long conversations and share sweet reminders that you're thinking about each other and how much ya love 'em.    

Joshua himself has been making big strides in going the distance.Including a midnight drive to see me for the weekend (while dangerous, it was oddly romantic). There's something to be said about a man who goes the extra mile to make his woman happy. So whether you're in a long distance relationship or a relationship-relationship, sometimes all you need is a sweet gesture every now and then to tug on those heart strings and show how much you care.

It's the little things that goes a long way!