DISQUS

Twenty-something single (somewhat girly) girl who clearly loves shoes, clothes and magazines. Note that clutter-free/minimalist isn't part of this description. Ever-evolving / never done (but full ideas - full of colorful, stylish seeds of potential). On a journey far from home but cherishing every step along the way, and definitely not afraid to take risks in life and in style. Bright, warm, and creative; freakishly organized, but still loves "stuff". My home says, "this girl will someday have that home you love to linger and be a houseguest in - but today, she might be a little more focused on her career and social life. And clothes..and shoes."

I'd LIKE for my home to one day say a little more zen, a little more "have a seat in my haven", and a lot more "nest for love and family". But right now, I'd say that my home is an accurate reflection of me - whether I like it or not - so what more could I ask for?

I am a huge, huge Domino fan. I agree with you, Carrie and Danielle, that magazines are my ultimate "soul food," escapism, and relaxation. I almost have a problem because I have a hard time parting with them. But back to my #1, Domino - this is the only magazine that I ALWAYS read cover to cover and never, ever have gotten rid of one issue. Whenever I'm starting a new project I get them out on my office floor and pore through them. (Other subscriptions are Time, Vogue, Lucky, InStyle. At times, I have subscribed to 13 magazines at once!)

I am in a long-distance relationship with my boyfriend of 2.5 years. Nine months ago, my job temporarily transferred me to Seattle from the east coast. Your post made me think of how this concept applies just as much, but in a different way, to the ever-so-difficult long-distance relationship. How do you replicate those "turn toward" moments when you can't even be in the same room? I thought about how, on so many days, we turn toward each other only once - our phone conversation that happens at about 8 PM Pacific Time (11 PM Eastern). It's the only time of day when our free time intersects - when I've finished work, maybe back from gym or heading to dinner, and when he hasn't quite gone to bed yet. I think my boyfriend does a better job than I do at the other little things (like sending a note or card). So, you got me thinking about the small things I could do more often that would make a big difference. Right then, I sent him a quick email at work with an article I had just read and liked, and later that afternoon I sent him a text message to let him know I missed him. When I returned home and checked my mailbox, there happened to be a card there from him. Karma!

(By the way, our relationship in general is going wonderfully - but it was really nice to think for a moment about how even the best of relationships and marriage take effort and commitment every day.)

So, here is my little list in my current long-distance situation:
1) TEXT MESSAGING (heaven-sent with a 3-hour time difference)
2) Daily phone call always - even if just the "how was your day" recap - which I miss terribly!
3) Watching each other's favorite TV show and then talking about it later
4) Snail mail cards, simple and often
5) Always having the next visit planned, creating something to look forward to
6) Sending very small gifts for no reason - like, I sent him a T-shirt that I had printed with an inside joke of ours on the front.

And when we're together, making time for simple stuff - like going out for a great burger (his thing), catching a movie (our thing), or window shopping (my thing). These things feel just as important as the big events, if not more. Because those can be the things we miss most!