I have been dating my boyfriend for almost one year now. He is by far the best thing to happen to me, and I thank God every day for putting him in my life. After being together for so long, I notice that some things have changed. The follow are a sampling:

1. No longer on formal terms

With dating someone for a long time, you have the tendency to become more open about things. Burping, stinky feet, and being "oh, so proper" among many other things seem to be easier to talk about or do without feeling as bad.

2. Becoming part of the family

At first it is all about impressing them and gaining approval. After spending time with your S/O's family, you form bonds with them as you gain a better understanding of who they are. Over time you get invited to family events like birthdays, vacations, and major holidays. After that you feel like you are just one of the kids--there is truly no better feeling than that. My S/O's family feels like my own and I love them so much...I love this extended family!

3. Knowing each other better than anyone else

You can literally finish each others' sentences. You end up knowing exactly what the other is thinking (like what shirt he will be wearing, haha), and you can practically know what the other person will order at a restaurant. Not only are they your S/O, they become your best friend.

4. Developing strong trust in each other

When dating for a short amount of time, there aren't enough situations to determine how trustworthy they are. After you find that you can trust them, your conscience is clear, and life is good. There is no better feeling than not worrying about your S/O and wondering what they are doing. You are happy when they're having a good time with their friends when you cannot be together.

5. You envision your future with them

Early in life you imagine your future with "someone" like, "Someday I will go on vacation with my husband." Those kinds of general ideas. After being with someone for a long time, those general thoughts morph into a future with the person you are dating. For example I imagine that someday I will develop many memories and life experiences as well as grow old with not just someone, but Erick.

Finally, being with someone for a long time is one of the best things that will ever happen to you. I know that is true for me!