I am completely guilty of being a hopeless romantic, but not to the point of fairytale expectations. No white horses, no perfect prince charming.

This isn’t going to be articulated all that well, so be prepared for word vomit.

Admitting to one’s faults even if it risks ruining the relationship simply because of your respect for that person. Sitting down and talking things out when problems need to be addressed. Patience with a side of patience. Being completely comfortable in front of each other—not caring if you haven’t shaved this morning, that you are in your high school art club t-shirt, that you don’t have make-up on, that you have borderline morning Troll hair; taking time to figure out each other’s idiosyncrasies, remembering the little things—their favorite song, that they love strawberry yogurt, their favorite kind of tea, their soft spot for Wes Anderson and Miyazaki movies; remembering that space and distance is sometimes needed, being there through all the shit life has a habit of throwing at you, doing nothing together and still enjoying each other’s company, small yet thoughtful gifts, being adventurous with each other, being open, singing and dancing around in your underwear together (even if you can’t sing), PATIENCE, cuddling, seeing and experiencing the world together, cuddling, candles before bedtime, sticking it through rough patch, compromising (once in awhile, at least), making each other smile, slow dancing, capturing moment, reminiscing, cuddling, cooking together, long drives to nowhere in particular, going to concerts together (even if it isn’t your favorite band ever), being spontaneous, being thoughtful, thoughtful / creative / sexy compliments, cuddling…

Without all the fluff: honesty, respect, thoughtfulness, understanding, being open, being supportive, and working through the difficult things.