It's no secret long distance is never easy even under normal circumstances. Adding a global pandemic to that and it seems nearly impossible. I've spent the better part of 2020 not knowing when exactly I would be able to get on another plane to go see someone that means so much to me. Not knowing if the plane is safe and doing everything I can to prevent from getting sick so I can safely travel. I know I am not the only one in this situation and I am aware that some people are in the same situation with family members and friends. Dating in your twenties is weird as is, adding a pandemic and long distance to the mix just makes it a very unique recipe. I am not expert and by no means have the prefect relationship, but I have found 5 things that make this recipe a little sweeter and helps in these times.

1.Playlist

Making playlist together can be so simple and meaningful. Spotify has the feature of allowing multiple people to edit and add to a playlist. This is a great way to add songs that make you think of each other or you think the other person would like. Even making a playlist for yourself that you can send to your significant other is a great way to bond and stay close even with the distance

2.Letters

Who doesn't love snail mail? It's old school and not many people do it anymore, but you should. These letters can be whatever you want, add games to them, make open when letters. You can keep the ones you receive, and I promise you will. Reread them when you are missing your persona and can't talk.

3.Date Night

Date night looks a little different long distance but can still be done. Netflix parties are a great way to watch something together at the same time. Facetime dinners are a little awkward at first because you can watch yourself eat but are more than worth it.

4.Books

Reading through the same book is a great way to connect with the person you are seeing. This could be a novel, self-help book, a Bible study, even a blog. Reading the same things and being able to talk about it and share the experience of reading it together is a great way to bond even with the distance and gives the 2 of you something else in common.

5.Setting Dates and making plans

The hardest time in a long-distance relationship is when you don't know when you'll see each other again. The uncertainty and waiting for a date honestly just plain sucks. Making plans to for sure see each other helps so much. Having a date set to see each other gives you something to look forward to. It can also be helpful if it is planned out in advance to get cheaper plane tickets if you are also in that situation. Making plans for when you do get to see each other is a great way to help ease being apart. Make plans to go for a hike, watch a certain movie, go to your favorite restaurant in whatever town, see old or new friends (socially distanced), planning a dinner to make together. Plans can also include things like making a scrapbook of memories when you are together and to prepare for that you can get the materials together before hand. Getting things together will also give you something to look forward too. Setting up plans also gives you something to look forward to when you're together and it is another thing you can do together.