A long distance relationship is one of the trickiest relationships to pull off successfully.
It is certainly one of the most difficult tests of any relationship, whether that's friendship or marriage.
This is due to a variety of reasons, not least of which is the physical separation of the loved ones.
Sometimes if it's a high-school or college relationship and the long distance element is introduced, the two people involved will call it a day and move on.
If, however, you're in a much more serious engagement, such as marriage, that is definitely not an option you want to consider.
So let's take a quick look at the various factors that make it that much harder than your average marriage.
You are physically separated by a great geographical distance that makes real intimacy next to impossible.
You might be living in different time-zones which can make communication and scheduling much more difficult.
Real, meaningful communication drops dramatically.
Further, both partners have no idea of what the other is actually up to which lays down some pretty fertile ground for paranoia and suspicions.
Sexual needs and desires are put on the back-burner and satisfied only intermittently which can be pretty unhealthy in the long run.
There is always the chance that either, or both, partners become lonely, bored and drift apart from each other if the separation goes on long enough.
There are a few ways to off-set most of the above problems and they require a daily dose of diligence, will-power and a whole lotta love.
The first thing you need to figure out is how you both view long distance relationships.
Is one partner more casual or relaxed about it? How can a workable compromise be realized? You have got to communicate daily and for this it's important for you both to be on the same page.
Whether it's just the regular updates or an interesting story of what happened to you on the subway that morning, talk everyday.
Use Internet telephony systems for cheaper communication.
Be open and honest about your feelings of loneliness and fear.
Chances are your partner's been feeling the same way.
The separation is affecting you both and the situation is what is creating negative feelings, not your partner.
It's important to keep this is mind.
Further, find ways of interacting and engaging with each other that go beyond just phone calls or emails.
This includes playing interactive online games, sending each other cards or scented letters (or perfumed lingerie, even!) and using a webcam.
Maybe watch a new movie or read a book around the same time and then talk about it later.
Try and bond over activities as much as you would if living together.
Finally, don't expect too much from a reunion after a few months.
You've been away from each other and may need some time to readjust to the very real, immediate presence of your loved one back in your life.
Too-high expectations also tend to set you up for disappointment.
Remember, there are not going to be fireworks and a dramatic crescendo - unless you plan it that way! Be prepared for awkwardness, even nervousness and small arguments.
But most of all just think about what makes you so happy they're back and share that with them.