Dear Abby >> I got out of rehab two months ago. While I was there, I met someone. “Annie” lives in Florida, and I live in California. We both are doing great, and I believe we make each other stronger.

Do you think a long-distance relationship can work? I hear it’s not possible. She has recently divorced, and so have I. Annie has two children, 15 and 16, and for this reason, she can’t leave Florida. I have two kids as well, 11 and 16, and can’t leave my state for the same reason. But our kids will go to college in a few years, and I really care for her.

I know how hard it is to find someone. Over the last three years, I’ve dated 20 women. None of them is anyone I would like to be in a relationship with. Annie is perfect for me. I said we should take it one day at a time. She has flown out here twice to see me, and I’m going to fly to see her next. I know this relationship has its challenges. People tell me that anything is possible and that I should see where it takes us.

— Hopeful in the Desert

Dear Hopeful >> In three years, Annie’s younger child will be 18. Will her children be off to college? It will be seven years before your younger child is considered an adult. Would Annie be able to move to California when she’s no longer bound by a custody agreement?

I happen to agree with the folks who tell you that anything is possible. It is the truth — as long as you and Annie are prepared for a long-distance relationship in the coming years. You both have your sobriety that needs to be maintained, children who need support and relationships with exes that may or may not be problematic. For the foreseeable future, you and Annie should agree to keep your options open and not rule out dating others. If you are meant to be together, it will happen.

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