Dare To Be curious

Happy Year of the Tiger! 

We love to travel and experience different cultures and customs. Sherrill, has been lucky enough to have traveled to China many times for the Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival.  It is the grandest festival in China, lasting for 7 days.  During those visits, Sherrill, discovered much about the Chinese Zodiac and also experienced the traditional Lion Dance, which according to their belief, brings good luck and fortune.

This week on our YouTube channel,

“Dare to be Curious,” Sherrill and our good friend Denise, will bring you the experience of the Chinese Lion Dance from The Peninsula Hotel in Chicago.

In case you are curious, according to the Chinese Zodiac, Sherrill was born in the year of the Rooster and Debi in the year of the Dragon.

The Chinese zodiac consists of twelve animals and each has its own unique characteristics. 

IF you were born in the year of the Rat, you are ambitious and charming – Ox, diligent and gentle – Tiger, confident and brave – Rabbit, kind and sensitive –Dragon, outspoken and energetic – Snake, clever and curious – Horse, amusing and enthusiastic –Goat/Sheep, easygoing and empathetic – Monkey, entertaining and intelligent – Rooster, adventurous and charitable – Dog, helpful and honest – Pig, caring and generous.

No celebration of The Chinese New Year would be complete

without experiencing the traditional Lion Dance.  Sherrill was fortunate to witness it at The Peninsula Hotel in Shanghai and The Raffles Hotel in Singapore; and now again, this year, at The Peninsula in Chicago.

Lions play an important role in Chinese mythology and represent joy and happiness – plus they symbolize strength, stability (can’t we all use a bit of that right now) and superiority.

In China and at The Peninsula Chicago

performers mimicked a lion’s movements in an elaborate lion costume. The dance was performed accompanied by the music of beating drums, cymbals and gongs.  The instruments synchronize to the lion dance movements and actions.

Step into your own power, confidence and boldness this year and Grab The Tiger Year by the Tail!

Curious to see the full video??

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Join us at this special pre-Valentine’s evening on Wednesday, February 2nd at The Fairmont, Chicago for a practice run of your special night with your special person.

 

Here is a little preview of what we will be sharing with you - besides champagne, chocolate sample tastings of all kinds, specialty cocktails, fondues over the fire pit, and, of course, romantic red roses.

We will read sexy snippets from our books and answer questions.  

Here’s a sample of our Red Hot Readings...

She touched her throbbing lower lip with the tip of her tongue and stared into his intent face. "I like that.  I'm going to kiss you back."  The slow smile that broke over his face dangerously elevated her temperature even higher.

"It's my greatest hope."  He removed the champagne glass from her hand and began to gently nuzzle the nape of her neck. "Do you like this too?"

She drew a short breath, shivers tickling every nerve ending.  "One of my favorite erogenous zones."

"I plan to find every last one of them," he whispered, his voice husky.

From the book "TALK OF THE TOWN" by Sherrill Bodine

We will be helping you make it hot in your kitchen with gourmet baking suggestions from “Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci.

Such as… the zigzagging tongue-twister Rum-soaked Raisin Biscotti with Rum Glaze and Almond Sprinkles – The grownup way of updating your sweet tooth!

See you this Wednesday

2-2-2022

6pm-8pm

Fairmont, Chicago

Dare to be curious

Darlings, it wouldn’t be a party without YOU!

January can be a fresh magical month if you change your mood and step up your game with a THEME PARTY!

Themed parties are unforgettable – and there is no lack of choices for them!

This week we take you to a fabulous “Beach Party in January" at The Cabin at Old Irving Park – sand and all!

Now we aren’t suggesting you fill your living room with sand for a beachy vibe, but we do have a few hints for the themed party of your dreams!

NUMBER #1 RULE NEVER TO BE BROKen

have fun, don’t worry – when your guests see you are having a good time, they will too!

CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE THAT INSTANTLY IMMERSES YOUR GUESTS IN THE THEME

Harry, for the beach party, besides a thick layer of sand on the floor, strung lights and greens across the ceiling and had palm trees swaying in the corners. 

You know the drill – work with what you’ve got in your house.  An Oscar party we once had comes to mind – you would be surprised at what a red rug (for a red carpet) can do – especially if you ask your guests to pose while you snap away on your camera/cell phone!

ASK YOUR GUESTS TO DRESS ACCORDINGLY - “Hawaiian shirts” and swimsuit coverups are the order of the day at the beach party.  Oscar night was total Hollywood glamour!

SERVE APPROPRIATE FOOD AND DRINK – “umbrella drinks” reigned at the beach party.  Oscar was of course champagne!

PLAY A GAME RELATED TO THEME – you won’t believe what happens at The Beach Party – hint, you must see how far one of us will go for a theme party!  For our before mentioned Oscar Party it was of course choosing the winners.  PRIZES for the right answers are a MUST!

Want to see more? CLICK HERE to view the full video on our YouTube Channel, Dare To Be Curious!!

Still curious about themed parties?  Want to join us for a sneak peek of Valentine fun?

From hot fondues over a cozy fire pit, to chocolate samplings to die for, bubbling champagne and classic red roses – plus hints for how to bring more romance into your life when Sherrill reads passage from her book TALK OF THE TOWN  ( remember, Cosmopolitan Magazine chose it as a “red hot” read!) and Debi reads passages from her book DIVINE BISCOTTI - we invite you:

join us, in person, when we film at The Fairmont Hotel, Wednesday February 2, from 6 to 8pm.

Be part of the fun – guaranteed to get you in the mood for Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day!

As actress Arlene Frances said, “Life is the best party I’ve ever been invited to”.

Come live it up with us! 

P.S.

Read our Weekly Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Receive our Weekly Newsletter by Signing up at the bottom of the page at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every week at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Dare To Be Curious

Making New Year’s Resolutions is not new – the tradition began 4,000 years ago!

January was named for the two-faced Roman god, Janus, who looks forward for new beginnings as well as backward for reflection and resolution.

For the world the last two years have been so challenging a new year automatically means “its gotta be better”!

The definition of resolutions is “a firm decision to do or not to do something”.

This year we chose to NOT make resolutions but instead to write down goals and an action plan to reach them.

We tried to not fall into the trap of setting outrageous, unattainable goals – like losing ten pounds this week – but when we do lose that Covid 10 we will treat ourselves by running to our favorite local stores to buy those new dresses that helps the economy and makes us feel fabulous!

Also, we have found it beneficial to create incentives – like if we DO exercise 5 times a week we put money in our travel fund for exciting adventures we will be sharing with you in the coming months!

Life Has Taught us

that we can’t wait for something magical to happen in the new year – WE are the real magic working and striving to achieve our goals!

“Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering it will be happier.” Alfred, Lord Tennyson.

Click through to Our

DARE TO BE CURIOUS YouTube channel

as we share how we ALL can make the year shout WE ARE MAKING IT HAPPEN!

P.S.

Read our Weekly Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Receive our Weekly Newsletter by Signing up at the bottom of the page at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every week at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Dare To Be Curious

The last day of the year is often a time of reflection and even more often a time to cut loose – out with the old and in with the new.

All over the world, people on the last day of the year eat, dance, drink and often watch fireworks – as in the magnificent display in Sydney harbor, Australia.

There will be fireworks in Chicago and great parties at restaurants all over the city. 

Two of our favorites are the fine food, jazz trio in Marchesa’s dining room and the DJ down in the Champagne Cave to dance the year away.

Another is the ZBar at The Peninsula Hotel

overlooking the magnificent mile - – especially around the firepits on the terrace surrounded by the beautiful lights of the city.

Don’t want to go out on New Year's Eve?

a smile, positive energy and champagne will help make the evening special

with whatever you do!   You can throw your own awesome party – maybe just for two – often the best party of all!

Here are a few of our ideas

to make your celebration even more fun!

-how about mini champagne bottles as a party favor

-create a fun way to do the “count down” to midnight – maybe your own glittering ball

-ask everyone to create special NYE cocktails – adult and non-alcoholic – have a prize for the winner

-ask your guests to choose their favorite songs – play them and dance all night

-don’t forget those crowns, fun hats and confetti poppers for the bewitching hour of midnight

-watch your favorite romantic movies

-have lots of snacks – healthy and unhealthy - ‘tis the season, diet in 2022, the next day!

-turn down the lights and slow dance

-curl up in front of a roaring fire and snuggle with those you love – toast the New Year with beverages of choice – feel blessed to be alive – loved and loving.

Happy New Year!

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us

on our YouTube Channel,

“Dare to be CuriouS”

 

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

Still curious?! See the full video by clicking here!

PS

Read our Weekly Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Receive our Weekly Newsletter by Signing up at the bottom of the page at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every week at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/  

Dare To Be Curious

Is there anything more exciting to a child – or the child within us all – than the sight of a decorated Christmas tree with presents underneath – knowing a few may have our names on them?

We all know

that Christmas trees appear in every town square across the country. Now, glittering tinsel, lights, glass balls of all colors and candy canes dangle from those boughs.

In these challenging times of isolated lockdown and COVID 19 fears, we are using evergreens to spruce up our homes and promote holiday joy.  We encourage you to catch some inspiration and manifest a space in your own home to celebrate the season.

Nowhere is this more beautifully demonstrated than in Chicago!

Every public area – every hotel is decked out in holiday cheer.  We visited our favorite trees at The Drake, 900 North, the Waldorf Astoria and we ended the day at the beautifully decorated Peninsula Hotel and of course enjoyed their sumptuous Christmas High Tea.

Please join us on our DARE TO BE CURIOUS YouTube channel to wander with us through the glory of the Christmas trees and decked halls of Chicago  - our kind of town.

“It’s not what’s under the Christmas tree that matters, it’s who’s around it.”

All is merry and bright – but the truth is wisely stated by one of our favorites’ – Charlie Brown

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us

on our YouTube Channel,

“Dare to be Curious,”

 

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

P.S.

Read our Weekly Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Receive our Weekly Newsletter by Signing up at the bottom of the page at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every week at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Dare To Be Curious

Curious as to How you’re going to get your Spirt in the Holiday Mood?

Well…we are going to help YOU get there!

We are saying yes

to all the exciting twist, turns and dancing elements of the season.

We are turning up the heat this holiday season with

sizzling, shimmering bold attitudes of celebration!

Join us

as we attend beautiful elegant Holiday Luncheons,

and you will catch the Spirit of the Season!

The University Club of Chicago - one of the most beautiful rooms in the city is decked out like the perfect holiday card.  Tables are decorated, party favors abound and music fills the air!  This season everyone wants to make that extra effort to be more festive for family and friends.

The centerpieces seem more whimsical…

The favors more abundant, the food yummier, the music more lively – and best of all everyone is greeting one another with warm smiles!

In the spirit of the season we interviewed old and new friends who each are giving back to their communities – it is the time of year to give and receive!

Come with us to the best holiday luncheons in Chicago – there is nothing better than celebrating the season with your friends – especially when it is also for philanthropy!

Fun & Philanthropy…the perfect combo!

Life is more fun with a bit of celebration…embrace the magic of the season!

“Life is a party.  Dress for it.”

Audrey Hepburn famously stated.

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us

on our YouTube Channel,

“Dare to be Curious,”

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

P.S.

Read our Weekly Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Receive our Weekly Newsletter by Signing up at the bottom of the page at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every Thursday at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

DO YOU LOVE PLAYING DRESSUP FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

WE DO!!

Have you ever stared into your closet and moaned…

“I have Nothing to wear to the party!”

Or

Sat in front of your makeup mirror, surrounded by your “beauty aids”

and thought you needed a refresher class on

how to bring back your “GLOW?”

Well, that is how we are feeling this season!

We have Beautiful, Fun, and Glamorous Solutions to share with YOU

We all have our own unique beauty routines and we all remember getting into our Mom’s or Grandmother’s closets to play dress up. 

We still like playing

with makeup and clothes.  It makes us feel good.

Know yourself but be curious about new things…

Dare to put a bit more elegance into your clothes and makeup this season – or any season!

Clothes and makeup express who you are so give yourself the freedom to be YOU!

Being daring and curious we set off to see what fashions this season make us feel naughty or nice – stick with elegance or go for edgy. 

We started with our favorite shopping mecca

and did a little “Pretty Woman” routine which proved to be very satisfying and fun. 

Inspired,

we visited one of our favorite Chicago designers to check out materials to create the “perfect dress” image we were carrying around in our heads.

Next stop

a new cosmetic counter offering those alluring words makeup lovers cannot resist, “free makeover.”

It’s really not a question of clothes or makeup, it’s how YOU sparkle!

Whatever your shape or age you can be seductive, sexy, gorgeous and beautiful. 

A smile and a joyful attitude are the best beauty tricks of all.

As two of our beauty icons, Sophia Loren and Coco Chanel stated,

“Nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief she is beautiful”

and

“The best color in the whole world is the one that looks good on you.”

Dare to be Curious and join us on this week’s joyful adventure to prove them both right!

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us for this Thursday on our YouTube Channel,

“Dare to be Curious,”

You’ll get a sneak peek into our Beautiful, Fun, and Holiday Glam!

 

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xox0

P.S.

Receive our Weekly Newsletter every Tuesday by Signing up at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Read our Weekly Wednesday Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every Thursday at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherrill_bodine/ and

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at https://www.instagram.com/debicatenacci/

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Curious as to How you can Create a Festive Elegant Intimate Party at Home?

Are you getting ready to Entertain for the Holidays?

Do you think you can’t Create Delicious Amazing Hors d’oeuvres at home?

Think that you’re too busy to possibly cook Stunning Hors d’oeuvres at home…

Well, we have Solutions for You…

Whether it is an Intimate Dinner Party or a Fun Cocktail Party

Your guest will Love these Holiday Hors d’oeuvres

FOOD IS A GREAT BONDING TOOL

Food is a necessity – a bonding tool in relationships – an art form if done well

and can be a Heavenly Gastronomic Pleasure.

Great moments of entertaining friends and family make for unforgettable evenings! 

Our three rules for such an occasion are:

1.  Pay attention to your guests.

2.  Mix it up so they can mingle. 

3.  Serve them yummy food and their favorite beverages.

With number 3 in mind, we resolutely headed to a Service Club Educational Event on preparing easy hors d’oeuvres, ready in minutes.

Aproned and gloved, we were guided by Maria & Annalaura TilliVini, chefs, organic winemakers and olive oil producers from Assisi, Umbria.

The three hors d’oeuvres we prepared together were astonishingly easy.

There were several of us cooking – as we all anxiously waited for our masterpieces to come out of the ovens, we nibbled on fare from Dom’s Kitchen and Market and sipped our favorite beverages.  Yes, a party broke out as we cooked together – thereby confirming that food is indeed a wonderful bonding tool!

Keep in mind when you’re making these recipes small little bites are the best for your guest.

Umbrian Meatballs!

The big moment arrived!

With trepidation in our hearts, we tasted our creations!

JOY!

UMBRIAN MEATBALLS

Ingredients

• - 9 ounces of ground beef

• - 2TBS of grated parmesan cheese

• - 4TBS of panko breadcrumbs

• - 1 egg

• - 1 TBS extra-virgin olive oil

• - 3 TBS of whole milk

• - 1 tsp of salt

• - 2 pinches of pepper

• - 2 pinches of nutmeg

• - Half of a lemon zest

Fresh herbs:  lemon thyme or normal thyme, parsley, one minced garlic clove

Preparation

Preheat oven 400 degrees.

Mix all the ingredients and shape with your hands into evenly shaped meatballs approximately 4-41/2 TBS. each.

Roll each of them into the panko.

Bake in the oven for 20 minutes at 400 F

Tips & Tricks for the Meatballs:

The meatballs should really be bite-size. Then either make your own favorite marinara sauce for the dip or purchase your favorite from the store to save time.  You can always plan-ahead and online at Whole Foods or your favorite gourmet store. Really good marinara sauce for dipping. And of course, have your toothpicks to put inside the raviolis - you can purchase fancy toothpicks at amazon.com

Umbrian Panzerotti!

They tasted as good as they looked!

We were so impressed with our little masterpieces we have included the recipes for you to create!

UMBRIAN PANZEROTTI

Ingredients

• - 1 cup of 00 flour

• - 6 TBS of cold water

• - 3 ½ TBS of extra-virgin olive oil

• - 1 pinch of salt

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Mix the salt, 00 flour and olive oil, add the cold water. Once the dough is ready, wrap it with the plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Prepare the ingredients for the stuffing.

• - 7 ounce of cooked and squeezed spinach

• - 3 ounce of cream cheese

• - 4 TBS of smoked grated cheese

Mix the ingredients for the stuffing together.

Knead the dough until smooth, roll out with rolling pin, and then cut the dough into 4-inch squares. Place a spoon of the stuffing mixture in the center of the square and close them.  

Bake at 350 F for 20 minutes.

Tips & Tricks for the Panzerotti:

When you’re rolling out the dough for the shape, make sure the dough is thin. If you don’t want to make your own dough, you can buy pastry puff. Keep in mind, if you don’t roll out the dough and make it thin - it will be too thick and too heavy of an appetizer.

Also, when you put in the filling, just put in a little spoon full - don’t make big globs or else it will be too heavy as an appetizer.

Potatoes Nest

Do not fear failure – you must have the “I CAN DO THIS” attitude!

POTATOES NEST

Ingredients for Nest

·         - 11 ounces of boiled potatoes, mash the potatoes

·         - 1 TBS of grated pecorino cheese

·         - 2 TBS of grated parmesan

·         - 1/2 of a mixed egg

·         - A pinch of pepper

·         - A pinch of nutmeg

·         - ½ tsp of salt

·         - 3 TBS of panko bread- crumbs

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Mix all the ingredients together and fill the pastry bag. Place a sheet of parchment paper on the baking sheet and sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs. Make  little nests on the baking sheet. Cook in the oven for 20 minutes at 350 F.

Ingredients for Filling

·         - ½ cup of ricotta cheese

·         - 1TBS of Pesto

·         - 1TBS of grated parmesan cheese

·         - Pinch of salt

·         - Pinch of pepper

·         - ½ cherry tomato

Mix the ingredients for the filling together, fill another pastry bag with mixture, fill the nest and place ½ cherry tomato on top.

Tips & Tricks for Potatoes Nest:

This appetizer is fun and has the seasonal holiday colors of Christmas - red and green.  Don’t make them too small otherwise they will be too delicate. Just make them round like a cookie dough, roll in your hand then stick your finger in the center and put your filling in. Make sure it’s enough filling than just put one cherry tomato on the top. Again make it a two bite delight anything more will be too heavy of an appetizer.

“I was 32 when I started cooking; up until then, I just ate.” 

We love this Julia Child quote!

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us for this Special Sunday Bonus

on our YouTube Channel,

“Dare to be Curious”

You’ll get a sneak peek into our Amazingly Delicious Hors d’ oeuvres…

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

P.S.

Receive our Weekly Newsletter every Tuesday by Signing up at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Read our Weekly Wednesday Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every Thursday at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Are you getting in your Christmas mood - yet?

Curious on how to find the absolutely perfect gifts?

Are you struggling with your shopping lists?

Well, we have solutions for you, join us on a magical Christmas shopping day in Chicago!

C H R I S T M A S S H O P P I N G I S L O V E I N A C T I O N

We are soooo in the mood for Christmas!

We enjoy the noisy crowds, the holiday music playing throughout the stores, and the utter ecstasy of finding and purchasing the absolutely perfect gifts.

As we struggle with our shopping lists, endure December’s bad weather and the agony of sold out items we MUST acquire before Christmas morning, we keep reminding ourselves that the people in our lives are worth the aggravation! 

Christmas is meant to be enjoyed and so we did on our perfect shopping day in Chicago!

The giant rose on the exterior of the 136 years old brownstone welcomed us into Mary Mary’s, our first stop of the day. 

It is truly a treasure trove

of unique gifts from all over the world at affordable prices.

Guided by owner, Mary Ann Rose

We were led through a labyrinth of delightful gift choices from the largest collection of Santa’s in the city  - to their famous Upside Down tree loaded with glorious ornaments of all kinds, shapes and colors - to Happy Socks for the men in our lives – which are truly the perfect stocking stuffer for them!

Yes, they gift wrap!  What could be better!

Purchases in hand, we merrily went off to Mangel Florist in the iconic Drake Hotel. 

Their window displays

are as delightful as the interior of this little jewel of a shop.  Their assortment of beautiful elegant flowers is matched by their one of a kind gift selections.

We truly gasped

at the handmade, hand delivered from the artist in Tennessee, one of a kind glass domes depicting different holiday themes – every minute detail perfectly rendered, each is a work of art – words fail us - you must see them to believe them!

As Santa Collectors we were equally stunned by the one of a kind, handmade Santa’s dressed in glorious robes made of repurposed fabric.

The amazing workmanship in their handcrafted gift choices was truly inspiring!

Our last stop was a wonderland for children…

Everything to delight the children on Christmas morning from cuddly stuffed toys, to tents, to electric cars, and our personal favorite, books!

As C.S. Lewis wrote

“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me,” 

- we feel the same way!

We ended our perfect day with Tea at the Langham in front of the fireplace.

(And of course, champagne!)

Remember, wherever you live, support local businesses

And

May your holiday shopping bring you joy!

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us this Thursday on our YouTube Channel, “Dare to be Curious,”

to get some sneak peeks into our Christmas Shopping… 

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

P.S.

Receive our Weekly Newsletter every Tuesday by Signing up at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Read our Weekly Wednesday Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every Thursday at “Dare to be Curious” at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and at

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS!

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas”….and the magic began at THE LODGE in The Fairmont Chicago on November 20.

Tucked between Millennial Park and the Magnificent Mile the Fairmont has brought us the warmth and ambiance of a cozy Aspen lodge.  Guided by the genius of Tom Kehoe of Kehoe designs, The Lodge is the embodiment of all our favorite classic Christmas movies – think Holiday Inn or White Christmas – it’s all there!

We Were Thrilled

to be at the opening party and we want to share it all with YOU – the dozens of evergreens twinkling with thousands of lights – the cozy comfortable sofas and chairs – holiday music softly playing in the background – and on Thursdays there will be live music!

And the food!  Forget counting calories –‘tis the season to enjoy – everything from baby lamb chops, carved roast beef, fingerling potatoes, salmon to a Hot Cocoa Station complete with gingerbread men, warm chocolate chip cookies, candy canes plus chocolate fondue surrounded by luscious fruit and small bites of yummy cakes.

The piece de resistance

was the Flaming Eggnog specialty drink!  Even if you think you don’t like eggnog, this drink will change your mind!

The fun

doesn’t stop at The Lodge – there are great photo ops on the ski lift seat, with the golden reindeer or the red bear.  We’re still smiling at the memories made that night.

Charles Dickens wrote

“Oh, would that Christmas last the whole year, through, as it ought.  Would that the spirit of Christmas could live within our hearts every day of the year.”

From now until the end of February his words can come true at The Lodge.  Please go make your own special memories.

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us this

Sunday, November 28th on our YouTube Channel,

“Dare to be Curious,”

See you Sunday!

Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo 

P.S.

Receive our Weekly Newsletter every Tuesday by Signing up at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/

Read our Weekly Wednesday Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every Thursday at “Dare to be Curious”

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Dare To Be curious

Are you curious on how to surprise your loved ones this holiday season?

Do you have a wish to bake something new for the holidays?

Thinking of reading an intriguing romance novel, but not sure which one to choose?

If so, join us…

We have Fun Book Gift Giving Solutions for you!

Books your loved ones are sure to Love!

Don’t forget we have books for your girlfriends too…BFFs!!

Debi’s Books…

Unleash Your Creativity and Bake Delicious Gourmet Biscotti!

BE INSPIRED THIS HOLIDAY SEASON….

I warmly invite you to enjoy the recipes and stories created in my “Debi’s Dolce Kitchen,” where the aroma of freshly baked biscotti fills the air and mingles with savory whiffs of cappuccino. You’ll love taking your first bite of a Divine Biscotti.

Ah, heaven!

You and your friends will enjoy baking these gourmet biscotti this holiday season!  From the old-fashioned charm of an A is for Almond Biscotti to the holiday decadence of a winter Triple Chocolate Biscotti with Pistachio Sprinkles.  My book “Divine Biscotti” offers a host of delicious, sumptuous treats.  You’ll discover my baking tips and secrets as I share with you my cherished memories that baking biscotti always stir within me. And you’ll discover that

You too can bake your own Divine Biscotti.

P.S. If you are ready to up your baking game, check-out my Divine Biscotti recipe for

Brandy Apricot-Almond Biscotti with Dark Chocolate on page 66-67 in

“The Pastry Chef’s - Little Black Book Volume II”

Happy Baking!!

Sherrill’s Books…

ARE YOU BORN WITH THE MUSE

OR CAN YOU CALL HER…

I am a writer and want to share with you what inspires me to write my books in the hopes it will inspire YOU with your creative passions.

I believe I was born with the muse whispering in my ear.

As a young child my Aunt scolded me for telling my younger cousin that our dolls came alive at night and played together.  I wove elaborate adventures that took place in the garden between our houses.  I created a world she believed.  She wanted to be a part of that world so many nights she got out of bed, running into the yard, hoping to catch them at play.  My cousin, Linda, was my first fan.

In High School the teachers scolded me for “Day Dreaming” in class.  I couldn’t help myself!  Scenes and characters spouting dialogue ran through my head like a movie until I created the perfect happy ending.  One story would end and then another immediately burst into life, filling my thoughts with how to help these characters reach their happy ending and so it would go day after day.

As I was leaving for college my Grandmother advised, “Stop day dreaming.  Write down the stories in your head.”  Freedom!  The world became big, bigger, biggest!  Now no limitations to my daydreams except the breadth and  depth of my imagination.

Only one of my novels have seamlessly gone from my pen onto paper – it was exhilarating to know exactly the right words for that novel – my editor only changed 3 words in the entire manuscript!

That book was THE RAKE’S REDEMPTION, my first Regency novel.  I love the manners, clothes and men of the Regency period and apparently so does the world given the global success of the Bridgerton series by Julia Quinn.  The men of the Regency period ARE irresistible!

I loved Juliana and Dominic, the Marquis of Aubrey, the moment they came to life in The Rake’s Redemption.  However, I didn’t realize I would fall so madly in love with his half-brother, Jules, Comte de Saville, I HAD to give him his own book, SCANDAL’S CHILD, and a love with Kat, who matched his passion and spirit.

The glamorous Regency period and the machinations of cupid are an irresistible combination for me.

The Battle of Waterloo was such a defining moment in the Regency period I felt compelled to bring to life Lord Matthew Blackwood, an idealist with the heart of a lion.  His whirlwind marriage to Miss Serena Fitzwater and their relationship when he returns from battle wounded and a changed man reveals the complexities of true love in, A SOLDIER’S HEART.

It was not until Serena confronted her brother in-law, Richard, soon to be the Duke of Avalon, with “it is my fondest wish that when your tiny heart is finally given, the lady crumbles it to dust” that I knew what his story and Mary’s must be in THE DUKE’S DECEIT.  Two very different brothers each fighting their demons and the women who give them the strength to succeed.

The stories in my head continue to be about heroines and heroes who face adversity and come out the other side fuller and more complete human beings.  And always I find their happy ending.

Once one of my books was  up for an award at a Readers Conference in California.  As I walked into the lobby the first person I saw shouted at me, “I am really upset with you!”  I stopped in my tracks and asked the stranger, “Why?”  To which she replied,” Because I stayed up all night reading your book.  Here, please sign it for me.”

It was music to my ears and my muse whispered, “I know writing is blood, sweat and tears, but “having written” makes it all worth while.

Follow your passion and I am whispering in you ear….”it will be worth while.”

Pour yourself a glass of champagne and join us this Thursday on our YouTube Channel

“Dare to be Curious”

to get some sneak peeks into our books as we have a personal conversation about our joy of baking and reading.

Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

P.S.

Receive our Weekly Newsletter every Tuesday by Signing up at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life

Read our Weekly Wednesday Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos every Thursday at “Dare to be Curious”

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0?

https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine  

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Dare To Be Curious

Are you curious on how to Transform your Thanksgiving Tablescape?

Wondering how you’re going to get a new recipe in time for Thanksgiving?

If so, join us, we have creative solutions for you!

 From the first Thanksgiving in 1621 to this day, Thanksgiving has been a celebratory feast with family and friends.  It remains the same for us.

Sherrill’s Thanksgiving Memory

My grandmother’s old lace cloth covers the table and I am consumed with cherished memories of bygone days. I’ve polished the silver and chosen which china will grace the table. I’ve purchased new tall candles and decided which flowers I will use to best represent this day of declining autumn and the blessings of being together with friends and family.

For me, flowers are the key - so very different than the pumpkin, gourds, corn stalks of Halloween and the greens of Christmas. With flowers, you can create the bountiful harvest of Thanksgiving. Last year I was prowling through antique stores (a fav past time) and stumbled across ceramic pilgrims - a man and a woman. They were vases fired and carefully painted by someone in a long ago ceramic class. I fell in love with them!!  These pilgrim vases have now become part of my Thanksgiving tradition!

Debi’s

Thanksgiving Memory

The Thanksgiving dinner table is where some of life’s most important memories are made.  I just love the bounty and abundance of the textures, colors and spices of harvest season.  One of my favorites is a well-crafted cornucopia filled with the succulent colors of burnt orange, crimson, deep green, and gold.

As a young girl, I remember watching my Grandmother, Josephine, fix a side of traditional Italian Pasta. Eating well in Italy requires a little more than just the main course, it also includes the luxurious style of a unique pasta dish and of course, a delicious wine.  Today, I’ll be sharing with you, one of my favorite harvest season pasta dishes, that has now become a tradition at my Thanksgiving table.  The colors and texture are sure to harmoniously blend and add an Italian Style mix with any Thanksgiving menu.  Plus, I’m always baking seasonal Divine Biscotti….

Sherrill’s Secret Special Stuffing

2 loafs sliced bread, toasted, preferably bakery egg bread
4 eggs, slightly beaten
1/4 pound butter melted 
1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
2 large apples, grated
6 ounces sliced mushrooms sautéed with butter (I am generous with the butter!) 
2 cans water chestnuts, chopped

(I double this recipe as I get large turkeys but this will be plenty for smaller birds) 
Place bread in large colander. Run cold water over bread for a few minutes & then squeeze as dry as possible. Transfer to large bowl and add all other ingredients 
Place extra stuffing in a casserole & bake, covered, for about 45 minutes at same temperature as turkey.

From Debi’s Dolce Kitchen - Delicious Butternut Squash with Pancetta

1 container of pre-squared butternut squash (you can find this in produce at wholefoods, or in the frozen section or you can always cut up a fresh butternut squash yourself)

1 head of garlic (you can peel the individual cloves or keep the skin on for a more rustic look)

2 tablespoons Italian Olive Oil

1 teaspoon smashed 5-peppercorn blend (I use the blend from Williams Sonoma)

½ teaspoons kosher salt

4 ounces of diced Pancetta (you can find this already packaged in the deli section)

1 pound or less (depending on how much pasta you like) of DeCecco Farfalle no. 93 Pasta (cooking time on the box, 11 minutes for al dente)

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees

Place the squash and garlic cloves on a sheet pan in one layer.  Toss with the Italian olive oil, kosher salt and 5-peppercorn and bake for 30 minutes, turning once at the 15 minute mark. In the meantime, start making your pasta according to the directions on the box.  Then, take out of the oven, turn again using your spatula and sprinkle the pancetta, bake for another 25 minutes.  Put the pasta and butternut squash in a large serving bowl, season to taste and serve hot.

(Chef’s note: If your pasta is too dry, you can always add melted butter…Yum!)

Join us this Thursday on our YouTube Channel “Dare To Be Curious.”  We will be interviewing super talented florist and dear friend, Harry Nyholm, who shows us how to use fruits, vegetables, flowers and your special found treasures to transform your Thanksgiving tablescape.   

May your table be filled with lovely flowers and more as you sit in conversation and conviviality with beloved family and friends.

Well, soon our turkeys will be in the oven and the wonderful fragrance of cooling apple cider, pumpkin and pecan pies will fill the house. We hope that you enjoy our gift to you, on this day of giving thanks with our special family recipes. Enjoy!

We are Grateful for YOU!

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

P.S.

Receive our Weekly Newsletter every Tuesday by Signing up at the bottom of the page at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/

Read our Weekly Wednesday Blog Post at https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/blog  

Go to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiLdc0n6EVDC54JYYLlNgBQ and click Subscribe to the top right for new videos every Thursday at “Dare to be Curious” 

Follow us on Social Media on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sherrill_bodine/ and https://www.instagram.com/debicatenacci/

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7? :

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Are you curious?

Wondering how you’re going to get from where you are to where you desire to be?  If so, join us on a new journey!

Today is the day, and we are launching ”Dare to be Curious” because we believe we all can mine the confidence, strength, and power within us to create the life of our dreams.

Dreams cost frustration, tears, courage, choices, perseverance and extraordinary patience.  WE can help you realize those dreams of a big, bigger, biggest life by encouraging you to DARE TO BE CURIOUS about your own life.  Whether you are feeling stalled, or if you are transitioning through a career change, divorce or widowhood, you can create and face the new version of yourself.

We will show you how to manifest the beautiful, elegant happy life that you desire.  By showing you how to be curious about yourself, your passions, your style and lifestyle.  Now is the time to invest in the greatest gift of all – YOU!

Ask Yourself This…

Are you curious as to how to be a more interesting person?

Curious as to how to bake something new?

Curious as to how to write a book?

Curious as to how to tap into your muse?

Curious as to how to create a beautiful happy environment, regardless of the size of your house or room?

Curious about travel, food, or fashion?

Curious as to how other entrepreneurial women have achieved their dreams?

Curious as to how to take the first step?

Well, you’ve come to the right place, and we are so happy you are here!

Once we read the following quote:

“When I look into the future, it’s so bright it burns my eyes”.

Well, put on your sunglasses and join us on this journey.  We invite you to read our blog every Wednesday and following us on our YouTube Channel every Thursday.

Every day is a brush stroke on the canvas of our lives – paint with joy!

Always Dare to be Curious,

Cheers to You,

Sherrill and Debi

xoxo

P.S. You can follow us on Instagram @sherrillbodine and @debicatenacci

Websites: https://bigbiggerbiggest.life/ and https://divinebiscotti.com/

Don’t forget to check out our books, which are easily found on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Sherrill-Bodine/e/B001XSJ1X0? and https://www.amazon.com/Debi-Catenacci/e/B07DLFP3H7?

“Talk of the Town” by Sherrill Bodine and

“Divine Biscotti” by Debi Catenacci

My Modern Heroine of the Week is restaurateur Kathryn Alvera, a woman admired for her courage, outstanding achievements & philanthropy. Read more about Kathryn ‘s fearlessness in opening 3 successful Chicago restaurants - most recently taking on the daunting buildout of the Marchesa building which dates back to the late 1870’s & was a piano bar in the early 1900’s which was shut down for “playing jazz on a gramophone”. Kathryn does it all with determination, grace, humor & generosity.

A heroine is defined as “a woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements or noble qualities.”

As I create heroines in my novels I reveal their courage and noble qualities by the choices they make.

Every day we all make choices – be they big or small – and each has consequences.  Sometimes what seems like a small choice can set in motion consequences which change lives.

That journey started for Mary Segall when she chose to say to her fifteen year old son Devon, “Sure, I’ll help with your community service project.”

Mary had recently completed her animal healthcare internship when she began asking friends and colleagues about their favorite charities. She kept hearing about  Canine Companions for Independence which provides assistance dogs free of charge to adults, children and veterans with disabilities.

Like Mom’s do, she did her research and was impressed by everything she learned.  As Fate would decree, CCI was having one of four yearly “Graduations” open to the public.  Mary and Devon didn’t know what to expect. What they found was an emotionally charged ceremony.

CCI Graduation is the culmination of two years of hard work, love and dedication by many, but perhaps the most important are the Volunteer Puppy Raisers who have kept the dogs in their homes providing basic obedience, socialization and care for most of that time.

Now the puppy raisers pass the lease of their highly trained assistance dogs to their new “forever person.”  It is the beginning of a partnership between a human in need and a canine that will provide endless service and companionship.

“It was a heartwarming dream come true for the recipients and their families,” Mary remembers.  “Seeing how the dogs would open up opportunities and possibilities for the recipients, we fell in love with the concept.”

A long application process, interviews, home visits and training sessions followed.  “Devon and I were just doing this eighteen month project,” Mary says. “We didn’t think about another or what came next.  Then we got Rumba.”

As every animal lover knows, pets quickly become part of the family.  Older son, Garratt, and husband, Ray, were not immune. All fell in love.

Of course they could cuddle and play with Rumba but as volunteer puppy raisers they had CCI rules to follow.  The approved obedience classes were no chore to attend but a delight as Rumba excelled. At home Rumba caught on quickly to basic commands and got a gold bone for good manners on Mary’s monthly report to CCI.

“As the months passed, the whole family got involved in walking Rumba, feeding her and taking her to Vet appointments.  We made friends with other CCI volunteers at our organized outings to help with our pups socializations. We laughed and cried comparing notes on how our pups liked the recommended diet.  We all dreaded thinking about the rule that we must return our pups upon request. The thought of turning in Rumba became torture for me and my family,” Mary admits. “Once I heard Devon and Garratt plotting how they would start slipping “people food” into Rumba’s prescribed  diet so she wouldn’t pass her final training with CCI and we could keep her.”

Mary had to remind herself and the boys of the joy they had witnessed during Graduation which inspired them to become Volunteer Puppy Raisers.  Someday Rumba would change a life.

They stayed the course and the time came when they turned in Rumba to CCI for six months of intense specialized training.

“We all cried,” Mary says.  “We lived for the monthly reports of how she was doing.  We knew this was the beginning of learning multiple specific commands to help the recipient who had been chosen for her.”

That recipient was Michelle Kephart.

On holiday hiking in the mountains, Michelle suffered a horrible fall.  She was airlifted to a hospital in Reno where the doctors found her broken neck would leave her a paraplegic.  After weeks in the Reno hospital she was transferred to a rehab facility in Denver. During her three months there, she met a Volunteer Puppy Raiser who introduced her to CCI.

“I wanted to live,” Michelle says, softly.  “And I wanted to live with independence. When I learned about CCI I knew this could make it possible.  I applied and hoped every day I would be accepted.”

Two and a half years later she received the call from CCI and asked to come to their headquarters in Santa Rose, California.

There she began two week Team Training where she and Rumba learned proper care and handling of each other.

“This was my first glimpse of Michelle and Rumba as they were in team training and pre-matched.” Mary remembers.  It always brings tears to my eyes.”

Mary and her family were reunited with Rumba and met Michelle at breakfast on Graduation Day.  “In that moment I could tell that Rumba was with someone special and that she already knew how special Rumba was and that they loved each other.”

As Mary and Devon passed the leash to Michelle the whole family felt confident this was a perfect match.

“Having Rumba in my life has given me independence and I feel in control again.”  Michelle laughs. “She’s testy like a kid. Playful but so sweet. I love her.”

“Mary and her family are my extended family.  She helped me get my driver’s license and finding a used adapted van.  She is so supportive of me and Rumba. Because of her I have my life back.”

CCI continues to be a huge part of Mary’s life.  She has raised many puppies and each is still torture to let go.  Ray has also become a puppy raiser and is so involved he often takes the pups to work with him.

“He has almost as much fur in his car as I do,” Mary laughs.  “Our journey with CCI has been magical. In some ways I think doing something special for someone you don’t even know opens your eyes to even more special things others are doing.”

Mary has found what she loves doing which has changed her life and the lives of others in need.

“Yes, I made a choice which led me here.  Those I am helping did not have a choice in their disability but they choose not to be victims of their circumstances.  They are my heroes and heroines.”

Mary, you are mine.

When the Chicago Tribune asked me to write a response to a well-known commentator calling the President of the United States a “Retard”, I believed it was important to share my personal experience.

In the years since the article first appeared the outpouring of support and others sharing their stories of facing challenges has been over-whelming.  And inspirational.

I want to tell these stories of Modern Heroines.  They are all around us and each month I will introduce you to an astonishing woman.

I welcome your response to my original article AND welcome your suggestions for stories of women you know who make the world brighter.

We are all on this journey together.

Yes, I write about real people but I change the names to protect the guilty – the innocent don’t need protecting!  Chicago is full of fascinating characters – come meet them in my Chicago Series! Begin with the sexy fun of Talk of the Town ( chosen as a Cosmopolitan Magazine “Red Hot Read”) – the mystery deepens in A Black Tie Affair – and you have it all plus happy endings in All I Want Is You!

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ALL I WANT IS YOU

“4.5 stars!  Get ready for fun, mayhem, mystery and romance in this more-genres-for-your-money read.  Bodine has filled her book with quirky characters and a fabulous Windy City setting. A flawless narrative and fantastic love story round out the latest from this talented author.”  ROMANTIC TIMES BOOK REVIEWS

SHE’S STEALING HIS HEART

Vintage boutique owner Venus Smith is stunned to realize her newest acquisition comes with a larcenous legend.  Stolen years ago, the antique mermaid brooch belongs to the Clayworth family. The right thing to do would be to return it, but that means facing Connor Clayworth O’Flynn, the sexy department store heir Venus has had an unrequited crush on since childhood – and the man who helped ruin her father.

ONE KISS AT A TIME

Connor knows that Venus has never forgiven him for what happened between their families.  But business isn’t personal, even though Venus’s father’s betrayal still cuts him like a knife.  So when Venus proposes a deal – she’ll return his family’s brooch if he helps clear her father’s name – he reluctantly agrees.  As action-packed days turn into flirtatious fall nights, it isn’t long before old memories resurface … and new desires ignite. Can two young lovers leave the past behind?  Or must they first admit that all they’ve ever really wanted … is each other?

Yes, I write about real people but I change the names to protect the guilty – the innocent don’t need protecting!  Chicago is full of fascinating characters – come meet them in my Chicago Series! Begin with the sexy fun of Talk of the Town ( chosen as a Cosmopolitan Magazine “Red Hot Read”) – the mystery deepens in A Black Tie Affair – and you have it all plus happy endings in All I Want Is You!

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A BLACK TIE AFFAIR

“A Black Tie Affair is a charming romantic romp I thoroughly enjoyed…Sherrill Bodine has found a way to open a glamorous world everyone can delight in.” BLOGS.PUBLISHERSWEEKLY.COM

SUITED FOR SEDUCTION

Fashion curator Athena Smith will do anything to get her perfectly manicured hands on the Clayworth family’s celebrated couture collection for her exhibit.  So when she’s called in to make sure the gowns are the real deal, she’s ecstatic …until a dress she’s examining turns out to be loaded with toxins (talk about killer threads!) and Athena faints, only to wake up face-to-face with the One That Got Away, notorious Chicago bachelor Drew Clayworth.

Drew still believes Athena betrayed him all those years ago, and he’s sure he can’t trust her.  But when the priceless gowns go missing, she offers to help track them down. Reluctantly allied in the quest, Drew and Athena are soon stunned by the barely restrained passion still sizzling between them … and memories both bitter and sweet.  Is their new partnership just a business arrangement? Or is this something more than … A Black Tie Affair

Yes, I write about real people but I change the names to protect the guilty – the innocent don’t need protecting!  Chicago is full of fascinating characters – come meet them in my Chicago Series! Begin with the sexy fun of Talk of the Town ( chosen as a Cosmopolitan Magazine “Red Hot Read”) – the mystery deepens in A Black Tie Affair – and you have it all plus happy endings in All I Want Is You!

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TALK OF THE TOWN

“What a hoot!  Laugh-out-loud rollicking romance…Juicy gossip, fashion advice, delish recipes, and sexy romps; Talk of the Town is destined to be the talk of romance readers everywhere!” SingleTitles.com

GOSSIP QUEEN DETHRONED!

Darlings, what a to-do at the Daily Mail today!  After fifteen years as Chicago’s gossip guru, Rebecca Covington has been demoted from divulger of secrets for the city’s elite to headlining recipes in the Home and Food section.  Apparently, a touchy senator is threatening legal action for Rebecca’s latest extramarital scoop. But Windy City rumor has it that new CEO and dreamy Pierce Brosnan look-alike David Sumner downgraded Rebecca in favor of fresher, younger blood on the social beat.

Industry insiders expect Rebecca to fight her denouement and inquiring minds have already seen the feisty maven trading quips and searing glances with her arresting new boss.  Rebecca swears she’ll reclaim her shining star status, but can the dishy diva even cook? And how can she ignore David’s arousing effect on her sensibilities?

Don’t miss a trick, darlings.  Sparks are going to fly.