Dear Emma,

I have a boyfriend and with everything being in quarantine we haven’t been able to see each other at all. Do you have any advice on how to keep our relationship going?

Sincerely,

“In Love”

–

Dear “In Love,”

I know it can be tough to have a long-distance relationship — especially if that wasn’t what you planned for. 

You might have already tried some of my suggestions: calling and texting more frequently or replacing in-person time with Zoom, FaceTime or Skype. Those are all great ways to keep your relationship going, but they can start to feel dull after a while, especially if you don’t have anything new to talk about because of quarantine. 

One thing that might help you change things up is writing letters. I did this last summer with a group of friends from all around the state and it was a great way to keep up with people I wasn’t able to see in person! Letters are also a fun keepsake because you can look back on them later. 

It may seem old-fashioned, but I think writing letters can be a romantic way to stay in touch with your significant other. To add some extra pizzazz, try writing with calligraphy pens or on fancy stationery! More importantly, don’t be afraid to write what you really feel.

Another idea that could work well if you and your boyfriend live close is to meet at a park or other outdoor spot (that is open right now) and have a six-feet-apart picnic. You can each pack a lunch, lounge on separate blankets, and catch up in person while maintaining proper social distancing. 

I get that being six feet away from your significant other is not ideal, but this could be just the change of pace your relationship needs. 

My last recommendation is to learn each other’s love languages if you haven’t already. Since you can’t show affection in normal ways, it is essential to know what your partner prefers. Knowing what they like makes it easier to show them love in a way they will truly appreciate. Plus, it can be fun to take the test together over a video call! I’m sorry if you or your partner have physical touch as your love language right now — that’s tough.

Kudos to you both for following social distancing recommendations even when you could very easily choose not to. Enjoy these tips knowing you and your boyfriend are making a difference in flattening the curve.

Hopefully you two will be able to go on a “normal” date soon. Until then, crack out your calligraphy pens, pack a picnic and learn those love languages!

Take care,

Emma