Valentine’s Day is approaching, and for all you lovebirds who are flocked apart from your sweetheart due to distance, this time of year can feel pretty lonely. You aren’t single, but you also can’t spend the day with your loved one. 

Don’t fear, many Eagles are going through the same thing—for some, it’s their first Valentine’s Day flying solo. Here are a few ways to feel connected to your partner this Saturday, despite a long-distance disconnect.  

Ask Them to be Your Valentine.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it can be easily forgotten. It is common within relationships to assume that “be mine” is implied, but you should not presume that your partner will be your valentine. 

A simple text will suffice, preferably a call. Maybe leave it on a cliffhanger to keep them on their toes: “Hey, can I call you? I need to ask you something ASAP!” Sure, it may feel silly to pose it as a formal question. But whether you have been together for two weeks or two years, it’s always important to make your partner feel special by actually asking—Cupid won’t do the work for you. 

An Old Fashioned Love Letter

Let’s be real—you probably haven’t mailed anyone a letter since your 10th birthday when your mom forced you to mail everyone thank you notes. I hate to admit it, but she knew best: nothing beats a handwritten letter. 

You don’t need to write them a sonnet, although that would be impressive. Truly, it is the act itself that is meaningful, not necessarily the content of the letter. You could write a simple, “I miss you, xoxo,” and sign your name, and they will feel special. 

For an extra tug on the heart, include a printed photo of the two of you, or maybe a solo photo for their wallet. Taking the time to handwrite your thoughts feels much more real than an Instagram story. 

A Dinner Date Dial

Long-distance date nights are never perfect—there are often interruptions, like roommates vacuuming in the distance or glitches thanks to eduroam. Time zones can pose another challenge.  

Yet, there’s nothing quite like sharing a warm meal with your sweetheart, even if it is via FaceTime. Although you can’t “Lady and the Tramp” a bowl of spaghetti and meatballs through your computer screen, a dinner date dial can make you feel closer to your long-distance partner. Plus, it gives you an excuse to dress up and make it feel like a real outing (even if you secretly keep your slippers on).

For extra points, you should surprise them by sending a mobile delivery of their favorite food. Here in Boston, diamonds aren’t a girl’s best friend: Scoop N Scootery’s free delivery until 2 a.m. is!

Quality Time

Although there are five love languages, not all are accessible to those in long-distance relationships. Words of affirmation may be the easiest to practice, but for the upcoming holiday, quality time should be prioritized. Here are a few ways to spend time together:

• Teleparty: This browser extension is a total 2020 pandemic throwback, but it is a really great way to spend time watching one of your favorite movies together or try out something new. This service allows you to create a watch party with other people to stream a TV show or movie together and send comments. 
• Take a Hike: Well, not literally—unless you’re feeling adventurous. If the two of you can arrange for an hour of undivided attention, I suggest popping in your earbuds and going on a walk together. You can show them your favorite route around campus, or some of your favorite views of the city. 
• Some Friendly Competition: Try something more interactive. If you like gaming, join a server together and compete head-to-head or work together. Maybe throw in a few rounds of Roblox for nostalgia’s sake. If you’re both gym rats, you could try calling each other during your workouts to push each other to hit a PR or even see who can hold a plank for longer.

Send A Sweet Souvenir

As college students, Valentine’s Day looks different from the movies. Not all of us can surprise our partner with jewelry or a steak dinner. If you have the time, though, a thoughtful or creative gift is a lovely surprise. 

Here are a few examples that are moderately priced: a delivered flower bouquet ($40+); a Jellycat stuffed animal ($25+); an assorted box of chocolates ($20+); their signature scent in a lotion or spray ($20+); bottle of their favorite wine ($15+); a goodie basket of their favorite snacks ($10+).

Or, for creatives, DIY a gift such as a painting, a jar of memories or messages, a beaded bracelet (with initials), a clay-magnet, an inside joke memento, or anything you can create—with the bonus of low or no cost.

Above all else, let that special person know that you miss them. That’s all it really takes!