HOW TO MAKE A LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIP LAST

Whoever first said that absence makes the heart grow fonder never contended with the weekend airport rush. Here are some ways to hold on to your long-distance lover - and your sanity.


Step 1: Keep in touch daily. If large phone bills are a concern, send e-mail, letters, cards and even faxes.


Step 2: Plan reunions to keep both of you pleased about the relationship. If your partner needs closeness, set up plans to meet often. Having a phone-date to look forward to can help you through the rough times.

Step 3: Reaffirm your love and commitment to one another. Try not to assume that the relationship is thriving. Listen to your partner's concerns and communicate your own before they become bigger problems.

Step 4: Keep your partner informed about your life. You may live separately, but sharing information about your activities and friends is still important.

Step 5: Trust in one another. Suspicion will only break the relationship down.

Step 6: Keep the relationship a high priority. Avoid canceling phone-dates or forgetting to make a phone call.

Step 7: Focus on the future. Make plans to live in the same city eventually.