Oh definitely, I've been in some long relationships (2-3 years) and after the first one or two it becomes everyday. If you can take that person after as long as you have been around them, I'd say they're a keeper.
My theory is that once married, it's a lot harder to become separated. Whereas just dating (or even engaged), if somebody isn't happy with it they can just get up and leave. Each partner is aware of this and perhaps subconsciously tries harder knowing the relationship isn't "set in stone." After marriage, that feeling of having to try so hard perhaps disappears, at least that's my theory!
For me, I just try hard because I care about the other person but.. this is an entirely different discussion!
