Whether one of you travels or you have different work schedules, when physical distance separates you from your spouse, it can take a toll on your relationship.  You feel like ships passing in the night.  You miss the long talks that you used to have.

How do you stay emotionally close to your spouse when you’re apart?

Here are a few suggestions:

• Plan ahead and leave “love notes” for your spouse where he can find them.  Leave them in places that aren’t too obvious, but that will ensure he finds them.  In the refrigerator.  In his underwear drawer.  Next to his razor.
• Write a message in lipstick on the bathroom mirror.  I did this when I went out of town recently, and my Hubby loved it!
• Set up frequent times to check in via phone.  If you have to schedule it, then do it.  Make that appointment and keep it.
• Send text messages, or text pictures of yourself doing ordinary things so that your spouse feels a part of what you’re doing.
• Skype.  This is great, especially if you have children that want to see Mommy or Daddy too.
• Plan time for you as a couple to reconnect when you or he returns or when your days off coincide.

In short, keep your relationship with your spouse a top priority when you can’t spend time together.  Physical distance can lead to emotional distance, but it doesn’t have to.  It will take forethought and extra effort, but the benefit of these efforts will keep you close.

What other suggestions would you add to this list to help you stay close to your spouse when you are apart?

Photo Credit: Heather @ Not a DIY Life