How to deal with a long distance relationship.

Never in my life I would have thought I would be in a position like this, to be in a long distance relationship that is. Myself and Andrew have been together a while now and living in different cities has had its difficulties; 129 miles to be exact. Two train journeys and a lift/bus to and from the stations. Seems like a lot to do just to see your other half. Too much for some, so we thought we'd share some of our do's and don'ts with you guys (:

DO'S

• Call/Skype/Facetime as much as possible - Because we cant see eachother every other day I think it's important to do this as texting just isn't the same - calling is a lot more personal.
• Take it in turns to travel - Not only is it to share out expenses but it's great to see where your other half lives, what it's like, where they grew up etc. Personally I just find it really fun seeing new places.
• Make proper plans for dates - This doens't mean the one of you decides everything and makes all the plans, for example when Andrew comes up to see me i'll maybe plan what we're going to do and vice versa. This can make the dates a lot more exciting as can do something that you may have to book in advance for example a trip to zoo or something like that (: which links to my next point..
• Organise dates well in advance - Again this will cut costs as transport will be fairy cheaper if you book in advance and it also means you can book something a little more special than just going to the cinema and for a meal.
• Tell them how you feel - This goes both ways, whether its good or bad news for them. They aren't mind readers, so sometimes it might be better to be a little more upfront about things. Seeing as you don't get to see them as often it will be a bit more difficult for them to get hints. 
• Little surprises - As little as a cute text goodnight, those little unexpected things make all the difference and let them know just how much they care, it shows that you are thinking of them and are taking the time to do something for them.

DON'TS

• RUSH! - I feel like this is the most important point i'm going to make. If it's meant to happen, it will. There's no point of adding extra pressure with the title of 'boyfriend' or 'girlfriend' until you know you both are ready to make the commitment. 
• Make it one-sided - Being so far away means  you both have to put in a lot of effort to make things work. One person making all the plans, always travelling and just generally the one making all the effort will not do anything for the relationship; they will feel unappreciated.

Thanks for reading! We only have a few for each as we are learning each and every day. Most importantly I feel that we are as strong as we are as we both know we'd rather be together than be with anyone else.

Teila x