I have been in a long distance relationship and I believe that the only reason why it worked was because we were so in love.  I think that it didn't matter whether we were talking on the phone or whether we were with one another, we still had a very strong connection.  I think having a long-distance relationship from the beginning isn't the best idea, but if you want to try to continue something that you have already begun, then it's worth trying.  As far as how to make it work, it takes creativity.  It takes learning to love the phone, starting good conversations, being good conversationalists, surprising one another, a lot of visiting, sending packages, etc.  Basically, it takes a lot of effort.  All relationships take effort and a distance relationship will take even more effort.  Good luck, give it a try.... I would never let someone that I love slip away just because of distance.  It's not a good enough reason to let go of someone.