Well, I've had a happier ending; we started our relationship with one in Arizona and one in IL and got married still commuting between the two and are still commuting today. BUT, we talk every day multiple times and we see each other every weekend. So not so much separation as a lot of couples, and much more "real life" about the house, the pets, the cars, etc. IMHO, it's all about communication, so that you feel like you are part of each other's life, and the most important part, at that. It's awfully nice, though, to be able to get a hug when you want or need one, and that's the downside to an LDR!