Claire
I spread them out so the effect was lessened!
I think it varies for each couple. Me and Sam, we've only been together since April. And it's not really been easy. Sometimes I think we've only really been together since July, since I know for sure he's been clean. And considering Sam already has one broken engagement behind him, I'm not rushing to pressure him for something sparkly on my finger. I already feel the 'til death do us part' bit without the ceremony to say so.
He is, he always thinks he's got until the living room or the kitchen before he has to speak to anyone so he's still in his own headspace, it's the perfect place.