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Dine and Dish

Food blog with family recipes

January 3, 2012

Connect in 2012 {Giveaway: The Rusted Chain Bracelet}

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I am sitting here, at 4pm, stuck in bed with the flu. Not quite the start to 2012 I was hoping for! Flu aside, I am really excited for the start of a new year.

Every new year I select one word to help guide my year. 2011 my word was “happiness”. I read and was inspired by The Happiness Project and it seemed only natural to focus my 2011 on intentional happiness. My “Happiness Reports” will continue into 2012, but my word is going to change.

For 2012 my word is CONNECT.

 

I want to spend time developing relationships and connecting with others on a deeper level. I want to connect with my husband through (at least) monthly date nights. I want to connect with my kids by spending more one on one time with them. I want to connect with my friends, making getting together with them regularly a priority. I want to spend time with my family…visit them more. I want to find blogs that move me and spend more time reading them. I want to engage my mind… read more, take more photos, live life vibrantly.

As a visual reminder of my 2012 word, I ordered a stamped metal bracelet from The Rusted Chain. On my bracelet will be the word “Connect”. Beki has generously offered to give one lucky Dine & Dish reader a 2012 word bracelet as well! To enter the giveaway for a stamped metal cuff bracelet from The Rusted Chain, simply leave a comment on this post telling me what your focus word is for 2012.

For additional entries:

  • Become a fan of The Rusted Chain on Facebook
  • Tweet the following “I hope to set my 2012 intentions in metal by winning a bracelet from The Rusted Chain & @DineandDish http://bit.ly/wmEchi “

All entries must be received by midnight, CST on Tuesday, January 9th, 2012. Winner will be chosen by Random.org and notified via valid email address.

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Filed Under: Previous Tagged With: 365ryh, bracelet, Giveaway, intention, intentions, jewelery, new years, resolutions, win

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Laura says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:09 pm

    My focus word for 2012 is STRIVE.

    http://trainsandtutus.com/?p=2300

    • Laura says

      January 3, 2012 at 6:10 pm

      P.S. I hope you feel better soon!

  2. Roberta Whitley says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:14 pm

    I hope you don’t mind, but I think your word selection for 2012 is fantastic & I am seriously considering that it will also be mine! Thanks for the chance to “connect” with you & your readers – its going to be interesting & fun here! Thanks also for the chance to win!

  3. Crystal @ Crystal's Cozy Kitchen says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:15 pm

    I hope you are feeling better soon, being sick is no fun (and since I’m currently battling morning sickness I can definitely commiserate.)

  4. Amy says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:15 pm

    Lovely bracelet!

    “Abundantly” is my word for the year.

  5. Dawn says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:19 pm

    My 2012 Focus word is “DELVE.””

  6. sharon barry says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:21 pm

    IMPROVE!

  7. rebecca Garcia says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:27 pm

    I picked two… Connect and complete.

  8. Erin @ The Spiffy Cookie says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:30 pm

    My word is RELAX. I have a very hard time doing this seemingly simple thing. I am go-go-go all the time. With just a year and a half left in graduate school, the stress is only going to get worse. Seeing the word relax on my wrist could be a great reminder!

  9. Sheila @E2g says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:31 pm

    Focus. It was the first thing that came to mind. Focus on family, loving better, laughing more. Focus on the things in life that matter and not letting worry and guilt distract.

  10. Erin @ The Spiffy Cookie says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:32 pm

    I tweeted about the giveaway!

  11. Erin @ The Spiffy Cookie says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:33 pm

    I liked the Rusted Chain Jewelry on Facebook

  12. Tricia Marble says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:39 pm

    Discipline ~ I want to be disciplined in how I spend my time, disciplined in my finances and disciplined in how I treat myself (exercise, food, etc).
    Thank you for a chance to win one of these beautiful bracelets!

  13. Tricia Marble says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:39 pm

    I also “liked” The Rusty Chain on Facebook

  14. Carla Bornhoft says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:42 pm

    ACCEPTANCE

  15. Lauren says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:49 pm

    What a great idea. Connect works for so many of the themes of my life right now, but my word for 2012 is “leap”. I’m ridiculously excited for this year, and a touch nervous about what it holds. Happy New Year, Kristen!

  16. heather k miller says

    January 3, 2012 at 6:54 pm

    Blessed is my focus word!

  17. *Just Fran* says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:01 pm

    My word for 2012 is PEACE. The past couple years have been a pretty rough journey, at times, and I hope to have the peace to weather what ever the road for 2012 may bring.

  18. Melanie says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:02 pm

    My word is happiness. Wish I could say dont sweat the small stuff in one word!

  19. Sylvie @ Gourmande in the Kitchen says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:06 pm

    Well my word for this next year I think is going to be savor. I want to savor every moment and every delicious bite.

  20. Jen says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:14 pm

    My 2012 focus word is, Breathe.

  21. TidyMom says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:25 pm

    Hope you feel better soon Kristen!!

    I”m going to steel your word from last year………”Happiness”

  22. TidyMom says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:26 pm

    I tweeted!

  23. Sally says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:29 pm

    My word is TRUST.

  24. Sally says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:30 pm

    I tweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/sallykelly1/status/154373931602690049

  25. Sylvie @ Gourmande in the Kitchen says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:30 pm

    Tweeted!

  26. Sally says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:30 pm

    I already am a fan of The Rusted Chain on facebook.

  27. Rachel (Hounds in the Kitchen) says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:32 pm

    TRUST is my word for 2012. I don’t give it up easily and take on too many things myself that others could totally help with.

  28. Cate O'Malley says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:42 pm

    My word (or phrase) actually for the year is Love, Love Big. Coined by my daughter the other day. http://sweetnicks.com/weblog/2012/01/new-year-randomness-and-loving-big/

  29. judith says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:45 pm

    LIVE is my word for 2012.

  30. lorene holbrook says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:46 pm

    my word for 2012 is simplify

  31. lorene holbrook says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:47 pm

    I am a fan of rusted chain on facebook…..

  32. jenn says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:49 pm

    My word is Serenity

  33. jenn says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:50 pm

    tweet
    https://twitter.com/#!/jenzen69/status/154379025022849024
    jenzen69atyahoodotcom

  34. jenn says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:51 pm

    like rusted chain on fb
    jenzen69atyahoodotcom

  35. Michelle @ Taste As You Go says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:51 pm

    With so many words to choose from, I’m going to go with “balance” as my word for 2012.

  36. jules p says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:52 pm

    I guess my word for 2012 will be….patience. I do not have enough patience with my children, husband, even myself.

  37. Michelle @ Taste As You Go says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:52 pm

    Tweeted! @tasteasyougo 🙂

  38. jules p says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:53 pm

    I liked Rusted Chain on facebook

  39. Stephanie says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:53 pm

    My word is Balance. Rest up and feel better soon!

  40. Babs says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:55 pm

    My word would be growth.

  41. carolinaheartstrings says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:56 pm

    Love the bracelet. My word for 2012 is Gratitude!!!!!

  42. Kelli says

    January 3, 2012 at 7:59 pm

    My word is ENJOY

    I want to enjoy life and all I have been given and worked hard for–my family, my home and the goals we have obtained

  43. Amy McElroy says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:04 pm

    Love your word for the year Kristen…and love this jewelry! Already saved the website for future purchases!

    My words for the year are: Life is Good!

  44. MaryBeth says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:09 pm

    I’ve been thinking about my “word” for 2012. I think it will be FEARLESS. Not the daredevil type of fearless, but rather the “do not be afraid” type of fearless. Yep…I’m going to be fearless in 2012. Best w

  45. Laurie says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:13 pm

    My word for 2012 will most definitely be PEACE.

  46. Amy Kempf says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:21 pm

    While there are many things I am trying to improve in my life, I am working on being more self-disciplined in a lot of areas this year.

  47. Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:24 pm

    Focus word: Excel

    (in all that I do, in all that I put my mind to…just excel.)

  48. Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:24 pm

    FB fan of theirs now

  49. Claygirlsings says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:26 pm

    My word for 2012 is surrender. Hopefully, I’ll blog about it soon.

  50. Mary Beth Hunt says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:30 pm

    My word is DO.
    I’m tired of wishing……..

  51. Tara @ Chip Chip Hooray says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:32 pm

    I think my focus word for 2012 should be “peace.” Both internal and external.

  52. Claygirlsings says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:32 pm

    I like The Rusted Chain on Facebook.
    – Janice S.

  53. Tara @ Chip Chip Hooray says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:33 pm

    I also tweeted the giveaway: https://twitter.com/#!/ChipChipHooray/status/154389795211186176

  54. Tara @ Chip Chip Hooray says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:34 pm

    And I’m now a fan of The Rusted Chain on Facebook.

  55. Cheryl says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:35 pm

    My word for the year will be Gratitude. I have started writing random thank you notes to people in my life and hope to maintain a goal of 3 – 4 per week for the year.

  56. Amy says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:42 pm

    My word for the year is Balance. Although I love your word connect. I am trying to not live at work and take care of me as well as everyone else. I want to find that balance in my physical being and spiritual self.

    I hope I will get to meet you Face to Face when I come out west to see my kidlet.

  57. Kelly S. says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:43 pm

    My word for 2012 is Focus. I want to focus on regaining my sense of self which has been lost over the last few years. I want to focus on spending more intentional/less distracted time with my kids, and I want to focus on building my own business.

  58. Elle Hyson says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:46 pm

    I think I need two words for 2012 – keep going – to continue to confound the doctors who gave me four months ten years ago –

    Happy New Year to you and yours Kristen and I hope you get over the flu quickly – my husband came down with it today and I am keeping my fingers crossed.

  59. Elle Hyson says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:47 pm

    I liked The Rusted Chain on Facebook

  60. Pam Kennedy says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:59 pm

    My word is reduce

  61. Rachel Cort says

    January 3, 2012 at 8:59 pm

    My word for 2012 is Mindfulness. I want to create a habit of mindfulness–of what I am doing, saying, thinking, feeling…my goal is a more intentional way of being.

  62. Rachel Cort says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:00 pm

    Just liked the Facebook page!

  63. Kelly Ulven says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:01 pm

    My focus word for 2012 is joy. Something that no one can take from you. It is internal and emanates outward.

  64. SherryG says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:04 pm

    No Regrets. It was given to me by a friend the day my mother died last August.

  65. Tracy Cooper says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:14 pm

    My word is fitness. I am hoping to become more physically fit during 2012.

  66. Lauren @ From Everyday To Gourmet says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:23 pm

    My focus for 2012 is exactly that: Focus. To focus on the things that bring peacefulness, happiness and closer to my monetary and career related goals.

  67. Lauren @ From Everyday To Gourmet says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:24 pm

    I like the Rusted Chain Jewelry on Facebook.

  68. Lauren @ From Everyday To Gourmet says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:25 pm

    I tweeted about the giveaway!

  69. Deb says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:27 pm

    For 2012 my word is “trust”. Thanks for the exercise in clarity!

  70. Heidi says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:28 pm

    My word for 2012 is ‘complete’. I have started so many things over the years and never finished them. This year I will follow through! It also speaks to me in many other ways.

  71. Rose Mary says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:28 pm

    I hope to find more time to be creative!!!!

  72. Jill G says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:34 pm

    Breathe

  73. Michelle Hudiburg says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:45 pm

    I chose the word discipline for this year. I have such a horrible time finishing what I begin and I know it stems from a lack of discipline in my life. So, I’m setting out on a road to claim Proverbs 15:31-33. I want to welcome discipline so I can gain wisdom and follow the path the Lord has laid out for my life.

  74. Alison C says

    January 3, 2012 at 9:59 pm

    My word is peace. I had the family fill out a New Years form and the first blank was to write one word. Peace came to mind – with four 13 year olds, three cats, one dog, and one husband, I never seem to have any peace!

    Thanks for the chance to win!

  75. dee-ann says

    January 3, 2012 at 10:02 pm

    my focus word this year is “hokey pokey”

    my post about why I chose this word:
    http://deeannchibry.com/wordpress/?p=4609

    I hope you feel better soon and Happy New Year.

    take care,
    Dee-Ann

  76. THERESA E says

    January 3, 2012 at 10:11 pm

    CHERISH IS MY NEW WORD FOR THE YEAR. I WANT TO CHERISH THE TIME THAT I DO HAVE WITH MY FAMILY AND FOR WHATEVER AMOUNT OF TIME THAT WE HAVE.

  77. Marla says

    January 3, 2012 at 10:20 pm

    My word for 2012 is Courage because I am opening a new business – a bakery cafe. It has been my dream for many years & I’m finally seeing it happen!!

  78. Marla says

    January 3, 2012 at 10:21 pm

    I follow the Rusted Chain on facebook!

  79. Marla says

    January 3, 2012 at 10:22 pm

    I tweeted!!

  80. Misty says

    January 3, 2012 at 10:33 pm

    My word for this year is “PRESENT”. Would love a reminder to stay in the moment, and fully participate in my life!

  81. Dana says

    January 3, 2012 at 10:46 pm

    smile 🙂

  82. Bee says

    January 3, 2012 at 11:39 pm

    My focus word… success. I have a lot that I want to do with my life, and I need to take steps to make it what I want it to be.

  83. naomi says

    January 4, 2012 at 1:27 am

    My 2012 is ReDiscover. My love for playing the piano, creating (I want to learn to mosaic and make candles), the city I live in … so many things can be preceded by the word “Rediscover”

    Yep – that’s my word.

  84. Mia says

    January 4, 2012 at 1:58 am

    My word is “persistence” for 2012. Keep going and just don’t stop. <3

  85. Mia says

    January 4, 2012 at 1:59 am

    I tweeted! @miacupcake

  86. Jenniffer Hernandez says

    January 4, 2012 at 4:41 am

    My word this year is “Heal”. It’s been a seriously rough 6 years and this year begins my time for healing.

  87. Averiesmom says

    January 4, 2012 at 6:04 am

    My word is “Hope.”

  88. Averiesmom says

    January 4, 2012 at 6:05 am

    I became a fan of “The Rusted Chain” on Facebook

  89. Averiesmom says

    January 4, 2012 at 6:06 am

    I tweeted the statement written in the article. Thanks!

  90. Annie says

    January 4, 2012 at 6:37 am

    my focus word is WEDDING…this is the year for planning it and doing the things i want to do before it happens 🙂

  91. Katie | Healthnut Foodie says

    January 4, 2012 at 6:42 am

    My word for 2012 is “Intentional”.

  92. Di says

    January 4, 2012 at 7:54 am

    How funny to see this post from you! Just yesterday a college friend of mine had a similar post about picking a single word to define what you want out of this year. I’ve decided that my word for this year is FOCUS. I looked through a lot of different words for ideas, but this one really spoke to me. Now to figure out where I want to go with it…

  93. Deb C says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:04 am

    My word for this year is Achieve…to strive for all my personal goals.

  94. Deb C says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:06 am

    I liked The Rusted Chain on FB!

  95. Natalie says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:15 am

    Santa gave the littles each a word for this year. Gabriel – Believe, Ethan – Joy, and Summer – Dream. I think that I am going to choose Hope for me because I do have so much hope for what is in store for my sweet family in 2012.

    Happy New Year!

  96. Natalie says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:16 am

    I tweeted.

  97. Natasha Hudnall says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:36 am

    Perseverance

  98. Natasha Hudnall says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:37 am

    liked Rusted Chain on FB

  99. Megan says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:53 am

    My word is “focus”. I quit my job at the end of September and I feel like I’ve been drifting the past three months instead of working on the projects I quit my job to do. I read The Happiness Project last year, and I think it will help me divide up my focus into smaller pieces. I don’t know if I will report on it every month, but it might help keep me accountable!

  100. Michelle says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:03 am

    I’ve picked out a New Year’s word for the last several years. Some past words include passion, happiness and peace. This year my word is FUN. I want to spend more time having fun—date nights with my husband, playing games with my kids, getting together with my friends and neighbors for drinks, expanding my new business and meeting new people, following my passions, traveling, reading, writing and baking. Life is short and I want to try and experience as much as possible by simply living and enjoying it.

  101. Sean says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:09 am

    I think my focus workd for the new year is HAPPINESS.

  102. Sean says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:10 am

    I like the Rustic Chain on FB.

  103. Alina says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:10 am

    Liked the Rustic Chain on Facebook.

  104. Alina says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:11 am

    My focus word would have to be INSPIRE

  105. Courtney A. says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:26 am

    INTENTIONAL…the one word that will mold me and fold me and bring me to my knees in 2012…

  106. Maria says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:41 am

    Gratitude

  107. The Hungry Housewife says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:42 am

    Sorry you are sick…seems like everyone has the flu right now 🙁
    I want to be more organized this year!

  108. Desi says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:42 am

    I have several words that I love and really resignate with me…. your word from last year “happiness”… “grateful” because I need to stop wishing for more and realize what I do have… “cherish” because I want to cherish every day, even the little things, I want to cherish my successes, and my relationships. And lastly “blessed” because again, I am so very blessed and I would love a reminder on my bracelet 🙂

  109. Maggy@ThreeManyCooks says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:52 am

    Integrity. Purpose. Vision.

  110. Irina G (Fit Flexitarian) says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:58 am

    My word for 2012 is THRIVE.

    I also liked The Rusted Chain on FB and Tweeted. Thanks! 🙂

  111. Karen P says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:15 am

    My focus word is Gratitude!

  112. wendy says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:29 am

    I have two words for 2012: patience (for my work life) and love (for my personal life).

  113. samW says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:41 am

    organize

  114. Jackie Gordon Singing Chef says

    January 4, 2012 at 11:00 am

    My word for the year is YES! Whatever the question the answer is “YES!”

  115. LyB says

    January 4, 2012 at 11:02 am

    I love the idea of choosing a word to guide us throughout the year. I had such a hard time choosing mine but “mindfulness” feels pretty right. Most of the time I am so rushed with everything I need to do that I don’t actually take time to savor the moments, every little moment. So, mindfulness it is this year!

  116. LyB says

    January 4, 2012 at 11:03 am

    I liked The Rusted Chain on Facebook 🙂

  117. Susan says

    January 4, 2012 at 11:33 am

    Hope you are feeling better. My word for 2012 is EMBRACE.

    I want to embrace the time I have left with my teenagers before they leave to start their own lives as well as the chaos that includes. I want to embrace the time with my husband as we become re-acquainted during this start of the next phase of our life together.

  118. lulujohnboy says

    January 4, 2012 at 11:43 am

    Healthy !

  119. Rebecca says

    January 4, 2012 at 12:28 pm

    My word is SUCCESS!

  120. Jill says

    January 4, 2012 at 12:32 pm

    BELIEVE!!!

  121. Alicia says

    January 4, 2012 at 2:36 pm

    Unwind. I need to learn to be less stressful.

  122. Kari says

    January 4, 2012 at 3:11 pm

    My word for 2012 is going to be Faith!

  123. susan says

    January 4, 2012 at 7:03 pm

    I think my word would be commitment.
    susan
    susie.galasso@triad.rr.com

  124. susan says

    January 4, 2012 at 7:04 pm

    I like the Rusted Chain on FB.
    susan
    susie.galasso@gmail.com

  125. chantal says

    January 4, 2012 at 7:33 pm

    Strength

  126. Amy says

    January 4, 2012 at 7:56 pm

    My word would be PATIENCE

  127. Laura Spragge says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:03 pm

    Change

  128. Mandy says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:09 pm

    Creativity

  129. bianca says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:16 pm

    Oh my WORD (no pun intended)! I love this novel idea of a word for the year – that is so much easier to keep track of than a list of resolutions!!! I might just follow suite and come up with a word…oh but there are so many great words in my mind! Perhaps that is a sign my word should be SIMPLIFY. Yes, I love that!

  130. Krissy says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:24 pm

    My focus word for 2012 is “Patience”.
    Thanks for a great giveaway. 🙂

  131. Krissy says

    January 4, 2012 at 8:26 pm

    I became a fan of The Rusted Chain on Facebook…..

  132. jacquie says

    January 4, 2012 at 9:48 pm

    perservere

  133. Robin says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:00 pm

    Bliss

  134. Laura says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:05 pm

    You are the first person I’ve come across with the same word as me…connection. That’s something I really want to be more intentional about this year.

  135. Melissa @ Baking For The Boys says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:06 pm

    Liked on FB!

  136. Melissa @ Baking For The Boys says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:11 pm

    I know this isn’t one word, but for weeks I have been thinking about the phrase “free yourself” I love it, takes me back to the days of all day hiking & scenic views.

  137. Jen at The Three Little Piglets says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:18 pm

    Mine would have to be peace. This needs to be the year I find peace! I loved The Happiness Project – such a great way to focus your energies on redefining the pieces of your life that you’re a little less than happy with.

  138. Jen at The Three Little Piglets says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:18 pm

    I liked The Rusted Chain on Facebook…

  139. Jen Hegemann says

    January 5, 2012 at 12:43 am

    I liked the rusted chain on Facebook

  140. Jen Hegemann says

    January 5, 2012 at 12:44 am

    my word would have to be LOVE.

  141. Kim Miklos says

    January 5, 2012 at 7:19 am

    LIVE!

  142. Susan says

    January 5, 2012 at 10:08 am

    My word would be CHERISH.

  143. Catherine says

    January 5, 2012 at 10:18 am

    My word for the year is HOPE! Without hope, all is lost.

  144. Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet says

    January 5, 2012 at 11:00 am

    My word for 2012 is Joy. If it’s not bringing me Joy, I’m not doing it. The End. 🙂 Great post and great giveaway!!! Happy New Year.

    xoxo
    Heather

  145. Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet says

    January 5, 2012 at 11:00 am

    I tweeted: http://twitter.com/FarmgirlGourmet/statuses/154970528610926593

  146. Heather | Farmgirl Gourmet says

    January 5, 2012 at 11:01 am

    Liked Rusted Chain on FB.

  147. Joy says

    January 5, 2012 at 11:56 am

    Positive

  148. Peggy says

    January 5, 2012 at 12:08 pm

    I would pick Love.

  149. Cat says

    January 5, 2012 at 1:17 pm

    My word of 2012 is Believe

  150. Cat says

    January 5, 2012 at 1:17 pm

    I like the Rusted Chain on FB

  151. Cat says

    January 5, 2012 at 1:18 pm

    I tweeted
    https://twitter.com/#!/picatasi/status/155004392691613696

  152. Lorelei says

    January 5, 2012 at 1:24 pm

    Acceptance will be my word for 2012.

  153. jessie says

    January 5, 2012 at 3:15 pm

    FAMILY.

  154. Micaela P. says

    January 5, 2012 at 5:12 pm

    my word in 2012 will be WHOLENESS.

  155. Micaela P. says

    January 5, 2012 at 5:13 pm

    I follow The Rusted Chain on Facebook

  156. mary fanara coleman says

    January 5, 2012 at 5:45 pm

    I like The Rusted Chain on Facebook

  157. mary fanara coleman says

    January 5, 2012 at 5:46 pm

    My Focus word for 2012 is surrender.

  158. Aimee @ Simple Bites says

    January 5, 2012 at 7:29 pm

    OK, I love your word! And the meaning behind it. I think my word for this year is “Focus”. I’m going to need lots of it!

    Would love to win a bracelet. Thanks!

  159. teresa says

    January 5, 2012 at 8:38 pm

    listen
    I like The Rusted Chain on Facebook

  160. Eliece says

    January 5, 2012 at 8:56 pm

    My word(s)/motto is/are self discipline.

  161. Laura G. says

    January 5, 2012 at 9:08 pm

    FAMILY

  162. ter@waaoms says

    January 5, 2012 at 10:49 pm

    My word for 2012 is Emerge. You can read about it here: http://waaoms.blogspot.com/2012/01/word-of-year-2012.html

  163. ter@waaoms says

    January 5, 2012 at 10:50 pm

    I tweeted @waaoms

  164. Erin from Long Island says

    January 5, 2012 at 11:47 pm

    my words for the new year are achieve and accomplish. with a new apartment and a new joblessness, i have a lot to do on these two fronts!

  165. Erin from Long Island says

    January 5, 2012 at 11:48 pm

    fan of The Rusted Chain on Facebook
    erin neu

  166. Erin from Long Island says

    January 5, 2012 at 11:50 pm

    tweeted

    https://twitter.com/#!/erunuevo/status/155150783850086400

  167. Lynn BB says

    January 6, 2012 at 6:54 am

    I think my word needs to be “balance”

  168. MyCoCreations says

    January 6, 2012 at 11:16 am

    My word for the year is CREATIVITY! 🙂

  169. Beyunka says

    January 6, 2012 at 11:17 am

    My word is growth.

  170. Shaina says

    January 6, 2012 at 12:44 pm

    I want your word: Connect. Another one I could use is Interact. I fail so often at the give-and-take of relationships. The introvert in me crawls into a small, dark corner and hides from that. This year I hope to prioritize trying to put myself out there more in an attempt to really, truly connect and interact with people who may even consider me a friend someday.

  171. Paige says

    January 6, 2012 at 7:07 pm

    I relate to your word connect and also this year for me “renew”

  172. Shannon says

    January 6, 2012 at 7:34 pm

    My word is REAL. Getting back to basics. Real food. Real realtionships. Real excercise. Real Life.

  173. Delani says

    January 6, 2012 at 7:35 pm

    My focus word for 2012 is TIME – to remind myself to spend more time with my children, to make a conscious effort perfecting the art of being on time, to gauge my available time wisely in order to accomplish my goals, and so on. My relationship with the clock has suffered this past year and must be rewound. 🙂 A beautiful bracelet would be an awesome reminder of my intentions for the year. Thank you!

  174. Shannon says

    January 6, 2012 at 7:35 pm

    I am a new fan of The Rusted Chain on Facebook .

  175. Shannon says

    January 6, 2012 at 7:37 pm

    Also tweeted https://twitter.com/#!/Shandon00/status/155462827514138625

  176. Kel says

    January 7, 2012 at 10:54 am

    That is neat! My word would be thankfulness.

  177. Holly Marble says

    January 7, 2012 at 11:57 am

    Intentional is my word. I want to be intentional about everything I do! Stop wasting time and be intentional about being with my family, the words I say, the activities I involve myself in.

  178. Holly Marble says

    January 7, 2012 at 11:58 am

    I “liked” The Rusty Chain on FB also.

  179. Niki says

    January 7, 2012 at 4:04 pm

    “Courage” to make my dreams a reality

  180. Niki says

    January 7, 2012 at 4:04 pm

    I’m a fan of the Rusted Chain on fb now 🙂

  181. lrigh says

    January 7, 2012 at 10:56 pm

    my word is also connect, thank you.

  182. leigj says

    January 7, 2012 at 10:57 pm

    my worl would also be connect, thank you.

  183. Michelle Wright says

    January 9, 2012 at 10:45 am

    I liked on FB.

  184. Tricia Marble says

    January 9, 2012 at 6:51 pm

    Tough choices. I would have t o say Intentional. These is my word I am focusing on! I want to be intentional with everything… how I spend my time, the words I say to my family and friends and the lessons I teach my children.

  185. Brandi says

    January 9, 2012 at 6:59 pm

    my word is “Future”

  186. Brandi says

    January 9, 2012 at 7:00 pm

    I am now a fan of The Rusted Chain” on facebook 🙂

  187. Chelsea says

    January 9, 2012 at 7:06 pm

    My Word is Listen…to remind me to be quite and listen to others, to the beautiful laughter of my children, to the sound of my husband saying I love you..to my friends when they talk about thier lives so I can be the best friend for them, but most of all to Listen to God and what he is telling me to do and to be able to hear what he wants from me.

  188. Chelsea says

    January 9, 2012 at 7:07 pm

    I like the Rusted Chain on FB!

  189. Chrissy says

    January 9, 2012 at 8:03 pm

    My focus word for 2012 is “blessings”. I have been very blessed these past few years and I am continuing to feel the blessings pour over me.

  190. Chrissy says

    January 9, 2012 at 8:04 pm

    liked the Rusted Chain on FB!

  191. Chrissy says

    January 9, 2012 at 8:06 pm

    Tweeted the giveaway! Thank you for sharing these great pieces of jewelry!

  192. Leigh H says

    January 9, 2012 at 9:20 pm

    Enjoy!

  193. Leigh H says

    January 9, 2012 at 9:21 pm

    Liked The Rusted Chain on FB!

  194. Sandy W says

    January 10, 2012 at 10:42 am

    My focus word is selflessness

Trackbacks

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Kristen-125Hi friends, I'm Kristen! Mom of 4, Ambassador of Happiness, Coffee Lover and Connection Seeker. Come say hi! Read More…
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food  FOOD

My love of how food connects people together runs deep. Explore a decade worth of Dine & Dish recipes, from sweets to savory as well as classic family favorites. Food lovers will want to check this out. Bon Appétit!
Crispy Chickpea Pantry Pasta with Spinach and parmesan cheese

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travel  TRAVEL

"I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list." I've always had a serious case of wanderlust, and traveling and exploring new places continues to be one of my favorite things. Come explore my favorite places with me!
5 Great Ways to Maximize Your Time at Walt Disney World Parks

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life  LIFE

More than just a food blog, Dine & Dish has always been a place where I've shared what's happening in our life. These life posts tend to be my absolute favorite blog posts. Come get a taste of life as it happens in our house!
broken plant pot on the floor with dirt

EXPLORE LIFE

happiness  HAPPINESS

I believe that in order to live a happy life, you have to make happiness happen through implementing simple things that make you happy into every day. Here are a few of the things that bring me happiness - I hope they do you too.

EXPLORE HAPPINESS

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New ink inspired by a quote in my friend @andiemmitchell amazing memoir “It Was Me All Along”. 

I tend to be an all or nothing person and look at long term and get overwhelmed instead of just taking things one day at a time. I’ve said her quote to myself multiple times a day for years. Now I’ll have a permanent reminder. 

The full quote: “Can you do it today? Can you make it through today without bingeing? Just today, and tomorrow we’ll reconsider?”

I need to go back and get a couple missed spots filled in but I love it. Thanks Rob at @irezumitattookc 🎉

#typewriterfonttattoo #tattooinstagram #inspiringtattoos #quotetattoo #gentlereminder #wordstoinspire #wordstoremember #wordstoliveby
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My snow and mountain loving, free spirited, book reading, laugh inducing, amazing friend @mountainmamacooks wrote a cookbook. It’s beautiful and just so perfect! I’m sharing all about it on the blog today and I also gave her Crispy Kahlua French Toast recipe the double dip treatment.

Find the recipe and get a peek into her book over on Dine & Dish! (PS I miss you tons, Kelley!)

#apresallday #frenchtoastrecipe #brunchideas #cookbooks #mountainmama #skiingislife
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Here’s a fun fact I heard on the radio several years ago…October 5th is the most popular day to be born (9 months prior is New Years Eve-ish). 🎉 

Happy birthday to all my many many birthday twins out there! It’s the big 4-8 for me…although this past year as a Covid long hauler I feel like I’ve aged 20 years in the past 1. But things are looking up! I’m excited for the next 365 days of my life. I’m blessed and so thankful to still be here, chugging along.

This picture is from last week when @kellykdoyle and I were visiting colleges in Colorado. If I have any followers with ties to @coloradostateuniversity or @cuboulder I’d love to chat! 

#october5th #birthdaytwins #gardenofthegods #birthdayweek #coloradosprings
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I love being a parent of teens...but I miss the days of parenting kids who loved going to school, who didn't struggle with major anxiety, who loved their bodies, and were confident about how they looked. I miss pre-covid days where lunch wasn't distanced, kids had the opportunity to connect and socialize at school, where mask-wearing wasn't even a topic, let alone one that divides. 

The past 2 years have changed my kids. They have gained so many positive things, but they've also gained a new kind of anxiety that wasn't there before. And I hate it for them. They've seen first hand how long haul covid has changed our family. They've seen the selfishness of others in ways they haven't seen before. They've had to grow up faster, worry about things they shouldn't have to worry about, and learn the hard way how this world can really be. And it hurts my heart for them. 

I have a new senior, sophomore and 6th grader here at home. Missing my sophomore in college a ton. I hope the world is kind to them and they are kind to the world. I want nothing more than for them to be happy and to be surrounded by good people who love and accept them for who they are and who also push them to live a full, rich and happy life. I pray every day for them - and for your kids...and pray that we are all raising a generation of empathetic and kind changemakers.

#loveoneanother❤️ #parentingteens #momofteens #anxietyawareness #backtoschooloutfit #changemakers #parenthood_moments
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These two small business owners had a successful launch day for their new clothing and accessory brand, @impatient.us I’m so proud of my daughter @kellykdoyle & daughter from another mother, @kyleemdunn for making the time and financial commitment to launch their dream brand! They’ve done it all so independently and have navigated starting a small business way better than I could have at 17! Thanks to everyone who sent words of encouragement and showered them with support. It’s means so much! 

Follow their journey at @impatient.us and shop the link in their profile!

#smallbusinesslaunch #clothingbrands #teenentrepreneur #launchday #launchparty #teenbusiness #shopsmallbusinesses #proudmoment
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I was a “houseplant lady” before the pandemic, but I think since the pandemic I get to add the word “crazy” to that title. So. Many. Plants. I’m not mad about it!

This weekend @kctinygreenhouse I picked up this beautiful Monstera Peru as well as a bag of Jeff’s Jungle Mix. You know when a new to you potting mix has you super excited, you’ve crossed the line into la la land 😂 Swipe to see how pretty it is!

What pandemic hobby did you pick up?

#plantmomlife #crazyplantpeople #houseplantlove #monsteraperu #pottingmix #plantobsession #plantcollectors #plantsmakepeoplehappy
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Yesterday we spent a few hours down in the West Bottoms visiting the grand opening of @kctinygreenhouse newest location . KC Plant fam, head there. Just trust me! Plants loved and cared for with the best good vibes, all ready to join your crazy plant person home. You’ll find goodies from local KC artisans as well, like @pigeoncandles 

Come for the plants, leave with a heart full of happy!

#westbottoms #tinygreenhouse #plantfamily #pandemicprojects #shoplocalkc #happyplants #plantvibes #summerofyes
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Last night in the suite @kcroyals ...I almost cried. Man it feels so good to be doing normal things. I’ll never take this for granted! Making this the summer of yes...I’m going to say yes to as many events/outings/opportunities as possible! Who’s in? #summerofyes
Open
Ella is 15 today! Those of you who have been with Dine & Dish since the very beginning have been a part of Ella’s life since the start too! 15 years sure does go by in a flash, both with businesses and babies.
Happy birthday @ella.r.doyle 💕💕💕 We love you!
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I want to live in the big city, yet also want to live in the country. I want to live by the beach, yet also want to live in the mountains. I either need multiple lives or multiple homes! 

#farmlifeisthebestlife #chickensofig #barnlife #iwantitall #hensofinstagram #citygirlcountrygirl
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I’m officially one step closer to reaching peak plant lady status! 🪴

I’m welcoming these plant cuttings from the Hello Kathy Plant Etsy Shop to my already booming collection. When I saw people rave about her “Mystery Box” of plant cuttings I knew I had to buy one. 2 things I love...mystery boxes and plants!

Now I need to figure out how to keep them alive. Any advice? 😃 🪴

#plantladyisthenewcatlady #plantladylife #plantcuttings #newplants #etsyshopping #shopsmallbusinesses #plantloversofinstagram
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Hi, friend! I Thought I’d just say “hey” and check in and add some pretty flowers to your feed.

We’re over here dragging ourselves across the school finish line...so close to done physically, but over done, mentally. Can you relate?

My coaching business is going great, I’m working with some truly incredible, inspiring women right now which makes me so happy! I’ll be launching 2 new group coaching  classes (for women and entrepreneurs) in a few weeks so be sure to follow @rockyourhappy if you are interested in being updated on those!

Jacob comes home from college this week and my parents are coming to visit for a couple of weeks as well. And it’s almost my favorite time of the year, summer!! 

How are things going with you? What’s going good and making you happy? Or what do you need a hand or listening ear with? Touch base! I’ve missed you!

#pinkflowers🌸 #happyday💕 #touchingbase #spreadhappiness #thursdaytherapy #lifecoachforwomen #springflowersmakemehappy
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Book Lovers Giveaway (read to the end)!!! ⬇️ ⬇️ 

Supporting my local independent bookstore @rainydaybooks looks a lot different than it used to these days. Temporarily gone are the days of lingering in store, browsing the shelves, walking out with an armful of books I didn’t expect to buy. The pandemic has made independent bookstores pivot in ways they’ve never had to before, but I’m so happy to say they are CRUSHING IT! And as we virtually celebrate Independent Bookstore Day on 4/24, I wanted to share a way you too can help keep Independent bookstores afloat now (and in the future).

You know I’m a huge fan of @librofm , the absolute best audiobook alternative that gives money back to the independent bookstore of your choice with your audiobook purchases. Well, to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day on 4/24, they are giving YOU a free audiobook! Here’s what you need to do…

Spend $15 or more at your bookstore between April 24th and 26th. Submit your receipt at libro.fm/ibd and Libro.fm will email you a link to your free audiobook by April 28th! Easy peasy, right?

Wait! There’s more! 🌟 I’d love to give one Dine & Dish follower the chance to win a 3 month @Librofm audiobook membership. To enter, simply tag your favorite independent bookstore here and tell me what you love the most about it! That’s it! Winner will be chosen at random on April 27th. Yay, books!

#indiebookstoreday #indiebookstore #bookstoreshoutout 
#booksbooksandmorebooks #bookgiveaway #audiobook #librofm #independentbookstore @indiebookstoreday
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Can’t believe we’re doing the college tour thing already with my second baby! 

So question for any of you who sent your kids to out of state schools or went to out of state schools...how did you do it? She wants to get the heck out of Kansas (I’d like to go with her!). We have money saved, she’ll most likely get a scholarship or two, she’s paying and has money saved as well...but even with that out of state tuition is a beast of an amount. So, did you just assume that student loans were going to be part of that life? And is that worth it to give your kids a shot at a new life outside of your home state? I wish I would have left Kansas for university, and have been here since I was born 😩. I want different for her if that’s what she wants but also just don’t have any experience with how people do out of state college! Any tips?

#collegetour #bestlifenow #outofstate #studentloans #junioryear #kansasstate #adviceneeded
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J is for...jam!
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My friend @wakschmale makes the best strawberry jam...and I completely forgot about a jar she gave me last year until this morning. Which then inspired me to make my favorite buttermilk biscuits. So so good. Are you a jam, honey, just butter or plain biscuit fan? I love biscuits allll the ways, except with gravy. I have super bad memories of biscuits and gravy growing up. 🤢
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I’m still slowly making my way through the alphabet for @kimklassen_innercircle a-z photo challenge. I’m bound and determined to finish. It may just take me a little longer than I originally anticipated 🤗.
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#homemadejam #eatcaptureshare #biscuitsandjam #homemadebiscuits #sundaybaking #easylikesundaymorning #foodphotograph #foodpics #slowsunday #breakfastathome #kimklassen_innercircle
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It took me 2 months to get this Crispy Chickpea Pantry Pasta recipe up on the blog. 🤦‍♀️But it’s there now! You can find the link in my Instagram profile.
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Also, just noticed Instagram took away the like count on posts. I kind of like that...what do you think?
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#pastarecipe #chickpeapasta #dinnerideas #dinnerrecipes #vegetarianrecipe #eatcaptureshare #slowblogging  #totallifechanges
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I is for Inspiration!
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The “long haul” effects of having Covid back in December are really presenting themselves lately. The continuous persistent headaches are taking a toll and the connection between the brain fog and word retrieval function of my brain has been extra challenging. I had no idea a couple months out, the cognitive effects would still be hanging around.
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With that said, when I get a burst of inspiration I’m grabbing on for dear life. I made our favorite chocolate chip cookies recipe yesterday and felt the desire to update the blog post photos from 2007! We make these cookies all the time, so I’m not sure why it’s taken me so many years to give that poor post some new photos.
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If you’re interested in the recipe you can find the link currently in my profile. Enjoy!!
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@kimklassen_innercircle #kimklassen_innercircle #chocolatechipcookie #cookiestagram #foodphotography #feedfeedbaking #plateofcookies #cookiephotography #eatcaptureshare #recipeoftheweek
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H is for...high!
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It was so strange being on a plane again. I’m so thankful I have the antibodies because the flights were full, which seemed wrong, but everyone around me did seem to keep their masks on, so that was good.
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I can’t wait until travel becomes a regular part of life again. I’ve missed it so much!
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 @kimklassen_innercircle @southwestair @windowswap #cloudphotography #cloudsofinstagram #flightview #iflyswa #imisstravelling #skylove #planepics #myviewtoday #beautifulviews
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G is for...oh so grateful!

I flew to South Texas yesterday to visit my parents whom I haven’t seen in 2 years. They live around 17 hours away from us. We typical get to see each other a few times a year but with the pandemic and other health issues it just wasn’t able to happen and I’ve missed them soooo much.

Grateful to have had COVID last month. Although it was not at all fun, it gave me the antibodies to make this trip possible. My dad is having surgery tomorrow so I’m helping with my mom so my dad can recover without having to worry about her.

Kansas is enjoying frigid temperatures and snow. I picked a great week to head south.
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#palmtrees🌴 #palmtreesfordays #blueskiesandsunshine #wintersun #texasskies #kimklassen_innercircle @kimklassen_innercircle #silverlining
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F is for...food photography.
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This time of year especially, food photography (and I guess all photography actually) is a tug of war with time and light. I had planned on making and photographing a delicious pasta recipe, but my grocery delivery ran a couple of hours late because of snowstorm. So, at the eleventh hour I decided to make a cake...that took over an hour to bake and I had about 90 minutes of natural light left...leaving me with about 30 minutes of ok light to work with.
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Anyway, this wouldn't work for a client shoot because the cake, although delicious, didn't turn out looking so great. But it will work great for today's F photo for the @kimklassen_innercircle A-Z photo project:) Lemon Citrus Yogurt Cake from this weeks @cabotcheese newsletter. So good!
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#eatcake #eatcaptureshare #eatcakebehappy #lemoncake #cakecakecakecake #foodiegram #yahoofood #dessertsofinstagram #sweettooth #kimklassen_innercircle #fisforfood
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