Absence makes the heart grow fonder

Being in a long-distance relationship, I've often been told absence makes the heart grow fonder.

People say this so often when they talk about romantic relationships. But it equally applies to friendships.

During college -- and maybe high school -- I've been guilty of neglecting friends. I usually was bogged down with homework or I wanted to be alone. In high school, I would watch movies or read on Friday nights instead of hanging out with friends. I also had this boyfriend who occupied my time:) But in college, I became dedicated to school and work. After 30 or so hours at the Daily (an additional 12 at an internship), papers and hundreds of pages of reading every week, there was little time for others. During my last semester, I finally gave myself a break. I only took seven credits, which opened up plenty of time for shopping, running and going to cafes.

Now that I'm in D.C., I appreciate so much what I don't have near me -- my friends. I miss them terribly. And as a result, I'm usually on the phone for hours every other night. Last night, I put in about two hours with friends. Tonight, it was another hour. And during the work day, I give in to e-mail once in a while with my friend who is also in the news biz, but it's almost strictly work-related. We let each other know about stories that are running, people we're investigating (actually, she's been a very good Bernstien and I have not been a very good Woodward), compliments we get from our bosses.

Sadly, I think I may be a better friend hundreds of miles away. At least I've learned a lesson: Appreciate what you have when you have it.