“Long-distance relationships” usually reference a high school couple that struggled to part ways, but every relationship you left back home is probably a long-distance one while you’re in college, including the one with your parents. Family weekend tends to be bittersweet for many– your parents/guardians (maybe even your siblings) come and go all too quickly, if they’re able to make it at all. In lieu of your family actually being on campus (whether they were here for Family Weekend or not), show your parents some appreciation, even if you can’t be at home to appreciate them.
1. Send them an inspirational text message.
This one I got from my mother, who likes to start most mornings by sending an image of an inspirational quote to the family group chat (yes, we are one of those families). An uplifting message can dramatically change the course of someone’s day, and at the very least they can help make a good start to the day. An inspirational message or picture message takes all of four seconds to share (maybe seven if you have to find one), and they’ll make your folks super happy. Parents need encouragement, too!
2. Call them.
Depending on how chatty your parents get, this one can be more of a time commitment. However, your parents probably love hearing your voice (unless you’re sick, then they might be concerned by the fact that you’re congested). It’s a great time to update them on your life and for them to update you on theirs. A phone call is also a great way to make long walks and awkward breaks in your day go quickly. It’s a win-win.
3. Make a video and send it to them.
Making a video is a fun alternative to Skyping or FaceTiming your parents because you can give them a small update on your day without having to commit to something more lengthy. This is also a great option for when your parents cannot or do not answer your video or phone calls, so you can make them and they can watch them when it’s convenient.
4. Send them a card.
Who doesn’t love some good ol’ snail mail? While sending a card might be slightly more effort than sending a text message, the reaction is worth it. Greeting cards are pretty and personal, and they show that you made an effort to make someone smile. Sending cards is also great for friends and family members who aren’t particularly into technology.
5. Change their desktop.
I did this for my mother when she got a new laptop for Mother’s Day a few years ago, and I’m pretty sure she still hasn’t changed it. Throw together a few classic family photos or some selfies or both, a couple of fond memories and reasons why you love them, and set the page as their desktops (or send it to them)—they’ll love opening up their computer to some love every day.
6. Tell them how much you appreciate them, in any shape or form.
Appreciation is appreciation, and parents will always appreciate it.
While these tips may be geared towards your parents, everyone can use some good vibes sent their way, be they your friends or your family. Everyone could use a little extra love and appreciation.
Image Credit: Hannah Anain