A year ago I had the typical civilian relationship and yes it was nice.

When I met my boyfriend, I knew that a year in the future we would be in a military relationship. Here I am a year later and I couldn't be more proud of my soldier or of our relationship. Having a long distance military relationship isn't easy, but its the little things that count.

1. Hard work pays off.

This is very true. Hard work pays off. While my soldier has worked very hard to get to where he is, so have I. A year ago we were going to the gym together, and I would hold his feet while he would do his sit-up test, or count while he did his push-ups.

On the other side, I was more focused on school and getting into college at the time. He would read my essays and help me out just as I did for him at the gym. We both worked hard to get where we are, and today he has maxed his PT score and gotten an "expert" classification in shooting during basic training while I have gotten a great opportunity getting to write articles each week to share with others.

2. It is never goodbye, always just a see ya later.

Never ever say goodbye, especially to a soldier. Every time we part ways, we always say see ya later because that is the hope that we cling to. Recently we have not been able to communicate much besides letters. We always count down the days till we get to see each other again and we will say see you soon in our letters. The letters we get from each other are what we have held on in these last three months.

3. A girlfriend's promise to her soldier/boyfriend means everything.

When we began dating, I made a promise to him.

I promise to be there for him through it all, to be here waiting for him every time he will come home from a deployment. A promise to stand by his side, to be proud, always have my phone on me, and to never take you for granted.

Whether you are in a civilian relationship or a military relationship, follow these promises and principles. When you find someone so wonderful, hold on to that tight because life is not guaranteed and you must make the most of each and every day you are given.

To tie everything up, you won't get anywhere in life without hard work and dedication, love is important and always be thankful for one another, take promises seriously.

My relationship means more to me than alot, my boyfriend mean more to me than anything. It is important to love and support one another even if you are miles apart. Keep working hard, always say see ya soon, and always make promises that are meaningful.