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10 Ways to Connect with Loved Ones from Afar

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Living far away from loved ones can be really challenging for everyone involved. Whether your family is miles away, your best friends live in other states, or you’re in a long-distance romantic relationship, finding ways to keep in touch can make a world of difference when you’re worlds apart.

If you’re navigating the difficulties of long distance, here are a few ways to stay in touch with the people you hold close:

1. Find daily connection points

A phone call, a FaceTime, or even a quick text message can make all the difference. For your loved one, just seeing your name pop up on their phone can bring a smile to their face. Send a funny picture of the two of you from long ago, or a meme that you know will make them laugh. Tag them on social media when you see something that reminds you of them. These small gestures are a great way to stay connected during a busy week when you might not have time for long conversations.

2. Write a letter

In our modern world of technology, a handwritten letter stands out and provides a personal touch that a digital screen cannot. Your handwriting and even your little mistakes—like scribbled out words or inkblots—will remind your loved one you’re thinking of them. Plus, it will create a keepsake they can hold on to. Step up the fun by becoming pen pals, writing to each other back and forth. Need something prettier to write on than a plain piece of paper? Discover stationery here.

3. Send a card

Surprise your loved one with a card in the mail just because! Let Mom and Dad know how much they mean to you, share your appreciation for your besties, or express love for your partner who always supports you. Find heartwarming greeting cards here.

4. Bring back postcards!

If you’re away on a trip, mail your loved one a postcard from the place you’re visiting. This little memento will bring joy even if they’re bummed they can’t be with you.

5. Create a care package

Whether your loved one is serving overseas or your best friend lives across the country, a package in the mail is sure to spark delight. Fill it with cozy socks, a candle, their favorite candy or snacks, and other little goodies that will make them smile. To finish it off, sprinkle inspiration in their package with our ThoughtFulls pop-open cards or share warm words of appreciation with one of our gift books.

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6. Establish a weekly “date”

Sometimes you just need to catch up and share what’s going on in each other’s lives. But this requires intention, especially with conflicting schedules or different time zones. Find a time that works best for both of you to sit down and talk on the phone or chat over FaceTime and make it a weekly occurrence. It’ll give you both something to look forward to every week.

7. Send them X’s

At times it can be hard to find the right words to express how much the people in your life mean to you. Our gift book This Isn’t a Book (It’s a Hug in Disguise) is a hug you get to give from any distance—whether across the street or across the world. Gift it to a friend who has moved away, a relative you don’t get to see often, or a loved one going through tough times.

8. Don’t forget the O’s for your sweetie

This Isn’t a Book (It’s a Smooch in Disguise) may look like a book, but it’s really a peck you get to plant on your sweetie, even when you can’t give one in person. It’s a smooch you can tuck into their suitcase when they’re going on a big trip or send by mail if they live far away. Discover this book and more.

9. Share hobbies together virtually

Get creative with ways to connect! Cook the same recipe and eat dinner “together.” Watch the same TV episodes and recap your thoughts afterward. Play digital games with family and friends, or cheer on your favorite sports teams in a fantasy football league. For romantic partners, come up with fun FaceTime dates, such as carving pumpkins, decorating cookies, or selecting activities from our Sweet Memories card deck that can be done virtually. Not being in the same room gives you plenty of opportunities to create unique experiences.

10. Set a countdown for when you get to see each other next

Celebrate the day you finally get to see each other in person with a countdown! This will give you something to look forward to and make the time feel like it’s going by faster. Mark your calendar or download a countdown app to keep track of how many days you have left until you see them. When that day finally arrives, it’ll feel even more special.

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Staying connected from afar can be difficult, but all it requires is a little additional time, effort, and creativity to find ways to spend time together, even when you’re apart.

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