One word has helped guide my life and work each and every year for the past decade or so. I’ve chronicled these one words ever since Nursetopia began, and it’s nice to look back and see how the single word, kept on the forefront of my mind throughout the year, really did shape my actions.

2014’s one word was relationships. After 2013’s change and newness of a different job and city, I wanted 2014 to focus on solidifying my community. And that all boils down to relationships.

I started 2014 with a race with my siblings that I ended up simply walking – and talking – with my sister; it was great. I also moved my family to a different rental property because we were going nuts in our other one; it turned out to be a really great thing for our family as a whole. I burned through handwritten notes for friends, coworkers, and clients. My birthday was an Austin Color Run team that friends and family members joined. I shared a beach vacation with 22 of my family members; took a cruise with my mom and older sisters; and worked hard to ensure date nights continued. I remembered my one word each evening as I read and sang my littles to sleep – as much as I felt pulled to clean the house or prepare for the next day, I remembered what was really important – daily relationships and moments that add up to much more. I gave more of me to the people I worked with and those who wanted to learn from me. Many times I stopped what I was doing (e.g. working, writing, playing on the computer or scrolling through social media) to spend more time with the people I love. I had the honor of caring for my grandfather, who passed away Friday from head and neck cancer; I spent a great amount of quality time with him, listening to his stories and enjoying his company. I wouldn’t have wanted to spend that time any other way.

Relationship. My one word worked exactly as I needed it.

I’m so thankful for 2014. And while it’s still the same year, I’ll put away my computer, and spend time with those that mean the most to me, welcoming 2015. Tomorrow I will share my one word for the New Year.

Thanks for reading and being a part of my “relationships.” I wish you and yours the best this evening and into 2015!