The 5 Stages of a Relationship

Things Left Behind__

You begin figuring each other into most plans. "What time will you be done?" becomes a normal question, with no chance of intrusion. Sleepovers are a given, though not a must. You share toothbrushes, or you leave one at his place. You have the talk (DTR—Define The Relationship).

The Routine

His appearances amongst your friends are no longer introductory, but regular. The calls and texts are more practical, less exciting—though the in-jokes and updates on the everyday ("guess what happened at work today?") make up for it. There are fights and make-up rituals. You figure out more about each other's boundaries.

The Parents…and beyond

He preps you and tells you not to worry when meeting the folks: it's best not to talk about gambling with his dad; his mom can't stand apples or people from Canada. The drive to his childhood home is no big deal because by now you've hit the road together many times. It doesn't matter who pays for gas, or lunch, because at this point, it's all coming out in the wash. The calls and emails tend to be mostly practical, though you both keep things exciting, jokey, and spontaneous (though these things start to require some thought). You start talking about the future…

After this it tends to go two ways: deeper routine or distance. The above guide is rough, based on my friends' and my experience, and should be taken as such. Every relationship is different, and each needs to take its own course. That being said, if you're spending every night at his house, but have never met his friends, there's no DTR and you've gone on one proper date—it may be a good idea to consult the above.

__What stage are you and your guy in? What's your favorite stage?

More on Relationships at Glamour.com__

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