My girlfriend and I met in January and started dating in March. For three of the last six months, she was in Michigan and I was in Pennsylvania. When we're not at school or visiting each other, we are 333 miles apart. This causes some heartache and many tears, but we've worked through it so far, and I believe that we'll continue to work through it until we live in the same state one day. Long distance relationships are hard work, but totally worth it with the right person, and they definitely aren't as bad as people say they are. Here's why:

1. I don't have to shave as often.

Hello, grizzly bear.

2. I save money.

Really, that's a lie. I just spend it on things for me rather than date nights.

3. I don't have to share my food with anyone.

But I'll still order a large fry.

4. Or my clothes.

Sharing clothes is definitely one of the cons of being in a relationship with another girl.

5. I can nap as much as I want.

Without any judgement.

6. I get a whole bed to myself.

Even my kingsize bed isn't big enough for two of us on some nights.

7. I don't have to wait for anyone else to get ready in the morning.

And I can take as long as I want to shower.

8. I can hang out with my friends as much as I want without feeling obligated to invite my significant other along with us.

Don't get me wrong, she loves my friends, and they love her, but sometimes I like to have a girls' night.

9. I get to choose what's for dinner.

I could eat oatmeal for every meal, but I know she wouldn't like that.

10. I have a legit excuse to fly somewhere.

11. It's really special when we do get to see each other.

It's like not eating your favorite food for 39 days straight then you finally get to have it.

12. I've learned that she really is the one for me.

Through all of the tears and silly fights, I've realized that I would rather have a slightly challenging relationship with her than an easy one with anyone else.