Living in Elsewhere is as foreign as it gets. At this time, I am beyond grateful for this certain and positive constant in my life. What is it? Well, it’s love.

What do I love? I love my Ultimate Concierge, my family, my pooch America, my orchid plants, my best friends, my memories, a sunny day, my views outside my windows of Lake Michigan and my beautiful Chicago, knowledge, and my hope that my love of life never fails me.

How I Keep My Love Alive Living in Elsewhere: Shower Those You Love With Love

The month of February is the month of love. It seems odd because it is the coldest month of the year. But maybe this was meant to be because with cold weather comes the desire to light candles or the fireplace, turn on music, pour your hubby or partner a glass of wine, spritz yourself with perfume, and shower your partner with love.

It’s important to keep the spark alive in your relationship, especially when physical distance or daily routines threaten to dull the romance. Intentional efforts, like planning special date nights or surprising your partner, help maintain emotional connection and passion.

There is no end date to good sex. Remember, darling, men are hunters! Meaningful acts of commitment and affection—whether big or small—demonstrate your dedication and keep your love thriving.

Long Distance Relationships

Long distance relationships can feel daunting, but they also offer a unique opportunity to deepen your connection with your partner. While the miles between you may seem challenging, many couples discover that the effort and focus required to make a long distance relationship work actually brings them closer together. In fact, more than half of Americans in long distance relationships say the experience strengthened their bond. The key is to approach the relationship with commitment, creativity, and a willingness to adapt. By prioritizing trust, open communication, and shared goals, you can transform the distance into a source of growth for both you and your partner. Thanks to technology, maintaining a relationship across the miles is more possible than ever—so don’t let the distance discourage you. With a little extra effort, your relationship can thrive, no matter how many miles are in between.

What I Do To Show My Love and Spend Quality Time

I tell my Ultimate Concierge he is handsome and sexy because I think he is!

I kiss my husband out of the blue more than once a day and every day. And, we both tell each other every day, “I love you.” The power of words in affirming our love cannot be overstated.

I dress for my husband because I want him to be proud of me

We always go to bed together.

I am the instigator and innovator of new plans and he always makes them happen. We share.

I find documentaries and series that we will both enjoy.

We converse. And, we talk about everything. We have no secrets. He is my best girlfriend! We take time to speak openly and express our feelings, which strengthens our emotional connection.

We keep each other posted on the going on with all our children and grands in a blended family. Sharing small moments throughout the day, like brief updates or caring messages, helps us maintain intimacy.

I always buy him sentimental gifts with a message for Valentine’s Day. One year I bought him a Hermès tie with lions all over it and wrote on the card, “You are the King of my jungle.” I gave him Barry Kieselstein cufflinks that are suns and wrote, “You are the sunshine of my life.” One year, I wrote him a poem and put it in a Tiffany Silver frame. I have given him elephants with the trunk up for good luck.

But the greatest gift I have given him is listening to him, being in touch with his feelings, and giving him my attention—always striving to understand and respond to the needs of my current partner. This makes every man feel cherished and significant.

Effective Communication

Communication is the heartbeat of any relationship, but in long distance relationships, it becomes even more vital. Making time to talk openly and honestly with your partner helps bridge the gap and keeps your emotional connection strong. Set aside regular moments for meaningful conversations—whether it’s a nightly phone call, a weekly video chat, or even a spontaneous text to say you’re thinking of them. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings, dreams, and even your worries; vulnerability builds trust and intimacy. Mix things up by using different ways to connect, like sending voice notes, sharing photos, or writing heartfelt emails. Even a virtual hug or a surprise care package can go a long way in maintaining that sense of physical touch and quality time. By making communication a priority, you’ll build trust and keep your relationship feeling fresh and alive, no matter the distance.

Treating Those I Love With Love

My mother was my role model. She treated my father like a King. He was never demanding or asked anything from my mom. It was my mom. She knew how to treat her man. She never told me how to be a good wife. But, she showed me.

I think I have been a good wife because my Ultimate Concierge is a good husband. It takes two to tango and he is well…. the Ultimate Concierge! You can’t get better than that.

I will admit life in Elsewhere is trying for me. My husband has handled Elsewhere far better. I think the reason I am having a very hard time co-existing with Elsewhere is that I have always been overly positive with optimism. It usually oozes out of my pours no matter what comes my way. Yet, I struggle to maintain that positivity and connection in such a challenging environment. Elsewhere has robbed me of my optimism because I have lost my faith in humanity, the human race.

My one positive is my rock, my Ultimate Concierge, Sheldon F. Good; my 365 days a year Valentine who has earned my love in every way.

Creating Shared Experiences in a Long Distance Relationship

One of the joys of any relationship is making memories together, and long distance relationships are no exception. While you may not be able to share every ordinary moment in person, you can still create meaningful experiences that bring you closer. Try watching the same movie at the same time, cooking a favorite recipe together over video chat, or playing an online game as a team. Plan virtual date nights—explore new restaurants via food delivery, take a virtual museum tour, or attend an online concert together. These shared moments, no matter how small, help you stay present in each other’s lives and build a treasure trove of memories. Even a simple good morning text or a weekly check-in can make all the difference in feeling connected. With a little creativity, you can turn the challenge of distance into an opportunity for fun and connection.

Elsewhere Has Tested Our Long Distance Relationship

I must tell you that this year’s life in Elsewhere has tested us. There is no romance in the air. I couldn’t put my finger on the reason until very recently. There is no laughter because life in Elsewhere is so problematic. Emotionally challenging times like these can cause hurt in a relationship, making it harder to maintain closeness and intimacy. People the world over require engagement rather than isolation. Joy instead of fear. Freedom instead of control. When these essential elements are missing, it can be difficult to stay connected.

So, don’t be hard on yourself this year if you are feeling somewhat blah. Everyone has bad days, especially when something important is missing from their lives. It’s because you probably have been without laughter as I have. Laughter prompts our brain to release endorphins that make us happy. Happiness ignites a positive feeling that makes us feel passionate, excited, and optimistic.

Balancing Independence and Togetherness

A healthy relationship is built on both togetherness and independence, and this balance is especially important in long distance relationships. While it’s natural to miss your partner, it’s also essential to focus on your own needs and personal growth. Make time for self care—whether that means pursuing hobbies, spending time with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment to yourself. Respect each other’s need for space, and encourage one another to chase individual goals and passions. By nurturing your own well-being, you’ll bring more energy and positivity to your relationship. At the same time, carve out special moments to connect and share your lives. This balance helps prevent feelings of being lost or overwhelmed, and ensures that both partners feel supported and fulfilled, even when miles apart.

Planning for the Future

Looking ahead is a powerful way to keep hope and excitement alive in a long distance relationship. Take time to talk about your dreams, goals, and what you both want for the future—whether it’s building a bucket list of places to visit together, planning a move, or discussing marriage and family. Creating a clear plan for closing the distance, with steps and timelines, can make the wait feel more manageable and give you both something to look forward to. Don’t shy away from sharing your feelings, hopes, and even your fears about the future; open conversations build trust and deepen your connection. By working together toward shared goals, you’ll strengthen your partnership and make the distance feel like just another chapter in your love story.

Gratitude is My Salvation

I must tell you feeling grateful is my salvation. Appreciating the love and kindness I receive from my Ultimate Concierge and others, as well as my capacity to give back, keeps me afloat. I am grateful for the support from loved ones that helps me through difficult moments. I am grateful that love surrounds my private life, and that I can rely on my partner during challenging times. I cherish the feeling. And, I am smiling.

So, darling, during this bleak time, count your blessings of the love you are able to give and the love you receive doubly hard. Be grateful for the resources—emotional, practical, and otherwise—that help you get through challenging periods. This is how we will survive.

Sending love and friendship across the miles from my home to yours.

How do you keep the love alive while living in Elsewhere? Let me know your thoughts in the comments at the bottom of this page. I want to hear from you!