Dear Dr. Date,

My girlfriend and I have been having a rough time lately, mostly because I got very drunk and kissed another girl at a party a few weeks ago. Totally my fault and I’m not excusing it, so I deeply apologized a million times, and she decided to forgive me. We’ve had some tense moments, and she’s brought it up a lot, but we’re getting past it.

When she suggested a winter break trip for the two of us, I said yes, hoping it would help repair our relationship. She’s been wanting to go to Yellowstone National Park for a while and said there’s a really cool remote spot we could camp at, miles from any other people. She told me she wants us to be totally secluded and alone, and I shouldn’t even bring my phone because it would distract from her. She even said I shouldn’t tell anyone where I’m going, just in case they try to dissuade me because they’re against our relationship.

I’m super excited for the trip and want to try and do something special for her too. After what I did in the past, I want her to know I love her on this trip. I was thinking of packing some special food I could cook for her, but she said she would take care of all of it. Any ideas?

Sincerely,

Safe and Sound

Dear Safe and Sound,

Uhhh … maybe bring a spare satellite phone, some bear spray and a GPS? You can go on a fun hike back to civilization! Make sure you’re carrying all the food and supplies so she doesn’t have to worry about it. If you want, you can even set up a romantic trip to a town you’re very familiar with so you can show her around! 

I don’t think I’m reading into things when I say your girlfriend’s plan sounds a little dangerous. Yellowstone? In the middle of winter? The most romantic thing you could do would be staying home at your own houses with the doors locked, texting about how great you’re becoming at self-defense. Stay safe! 

Sincerely,

Dr. Date