So you’ve been dating Mr. or Mrs. Right for a few years now. You should be set for February 14, yet you will be spending Valentine’s Day solo this year. How can this be? You basically have a designated Valentine, so why are you alone? You two haven’t broken up, it just so happens that you, my friend, are participating in a long distance relationship.

Spending Valentine's Day alone because you don’t have a Valentine is hard for many people. It’s also hard for those who technically have a Valentine, but they can’t physically be together. Personally, I don’t think people should get so caught up in this day. However, I do know first-hand how much it can suck being away from the one you love on a day that’s all about love. So here are some key solutions to maybe make the day suck a lot less. You might even enjoy it.

Stay in touch even when out of sight

This might seem obvious, but that’s because it’s a great resource. Skype is a great way to communicate with your long distance valentine. You can even go on a Skype date and have dinner together. While it’s not the same as going out to a restaurant, at least, you can avoid the crowds. You can also end the night with a movie. There is really something about sharing a movie together that will make you two feel connected.

It’s the little things

Send anything from a heartfelt card to a loving text message. Any small gesture will be appreciated greatly as long as you are showing that you care. Don’t hesitate to get creative. Small packages have big meanings. You don’t always have to buy an expensive gift. Care packages are appreciated and super useful.

Be understanding

Not everything is going to work out the way you planned, and you both may have different expectations of how the day should go. Just remember to communicate those expectations up front. You might want to keep yourself busy and be out with friends all day. However, your partner might have expected something personal with you. Most importantly, keep in mind that even though the situation you are currently in is not ideal, you still have the ability to make the best of it.