localboy......, your vast sensitivity for others should include some for Kayla for being human.

People are losing their homes, and jobs. Their children are in a war with Iraq. The economy is in shambles. You are "racking your brain" to discover things to talk to your boyfriend about? What a sheltered, fantasy world you must live in. I could only wish I had a job so tough, that your only assignment is to type what you see (reporting)or feel (editorial).

If you choose alcohol, use it in moderation. Never drink, unless you're alone or with somebody.

gmaof3: That's a fabulous idea. It makes me think of the old days... I think I'll work on that this weekend.

oldtimer: I'm not "complaining." I know I don't have it as bad as young women and men whose loved ones are much farther away. But I'm still allowed to feel sad when someone I love isn't close to me.

snoogieoogie: The staff blogs at GazetteXtra.com are for whatever their authors deem appropriate, and the "Off the Clock" blog was designed as a forum to talk about things that affect the 35-and-under crowd. This isn't something only I am experiencing. Many people--young and old--have been down this road. And now it's my turn. I've learned it's not an easy one, so I was hoping others might have some ideas. Maybe you've been lucky enough to always have your loved ones close by...

I have some little tidbits that might help...

Before the world of electronics... "good old letters" were cherished and were read over and over. The thought that someone took the time to sit down and actually write their dreams and ideas on to paper... Email is fine for quick communication, but try a letter. Alternate it with a little gift or something silly... through the mail.

Be creative... from Janesville to Green Bay would be just one day in transit. Don't forget the "lips" on the back of the envelope and spray the paper with perfume.

Might sound corny, but we ALL love attention, and what better way than the "old fashioned way". It won't take away the ache, but the anticipation - one... knowing you might get something and two... getting to hear the response.

It will give you something to share together, and might be good tales for generations to come....

Good luck!

Yes, oldtimer, and back then, everything cost a NICKEL, right?!

This is the time when you can do girly things or watch chick flicks.

When you get to be an old married person someday, you will relish the time you have by yourself, so enjoy these young solo times.

I think snoogieoogie needs a snuggle too.
It doesn't matter how far apart you are if it's not possible to be together.

Just try to keep busy.

If you don't care snoogie, why did you not only read it, but take the time to make a rude comment on it?

Maybe a pet would help:) Dogs are so loyal and loving - plus they give you a reason to get off the couch and get some exercise. Cats are less work and are nice to snuggle on the couch with. There is always an animal at the humane society that is need of a good home.

I guess snoogie and oldtimer did not read the last line of the post. She is looking for advice on how to deal with the separation, not to get blasted by, it looks like, grumpy people.

The skype suggestion by Matt is worth it. I have used it a lot when I have to travel for work. Saves money on the long distance calling and it is a great thing when you have friends that live overseas.

Maybe you need a "temp" boyfriend.
The Stephan Stills classic recommends: "if you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with".
{:>)

I don't think the Janesville Gazette blogs are a good place to be publicly lamenting your loneliness issues. Perhaps you should buy a personal journal and keep it to yourself. Nobody cares but you.

For most of us over 80 we were gone 3 to 4 years thousands of miles apart. (WW II). You young people have no idea what that was like and you never will unless you lived through it. So Green Bay is not that far so what are you complaining about?

It's been three years for my girlfriend and I. She goes to the University of Minnesota. There's no real cure, and it only seems to get worse as time goes on, but that's a testament to the relationship. Seems to have made us both stronger.

Also, get skype.