I like your answer. And....the older you get the more sense it makes to have an exclusive relationship and each have their own residence. Monogamy is important, but so is privacy and ownership. But in answer to the initial question. I think living together is important if you plan a "lifetime" together. The older you get the more you know that's just a roll of the dice anyway--but it's suicide when you're young, if you don't at least live with them for awhile before you marry them!

that at 58 the hot steamy sex for a woman is gone. Who would have guessed that your life long partner was going to be your dog or your mother or your kids? Who would have guessed that being alone wasn't an option but a circumstance beyond your control? Who would have guessed that internet dating was preferrable to regular dating? Who would have guessed that at 58 and retired life could such so bad? Who would have guessed that women still want a man in their lives after all the hurts, the lies, the deceit and the lessons. Who would have guessed that humans are such gluttons for punishment?