Romance & Peppermint Choco Martinis

So many parties won't be happening this year. 

That doesn't mean you can't have a little "party" with your honey. 

Even if you have kids, a "party night" would be fun. Schedule a night for a "party". Everybody can dressed up in party clothes, play some music, nibble on a meat and cheese plate. 

Enjoy playing a party game of some sort.

Make a non-alcohol punch for kids and make a special adults-only drink for you and your honey.

Have fun making a party drink to share. 

Here's one of my favorites.

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 parts KAHLÚA PEPPERMINT MOCHA
1/2 part vodka
 1/4 part half and half
 1/4 part chocolate milk
Garnish with whipped cream and small candy cane

Tasty Tuesday - New Years Eve Dinner for Two

So, you’ve decided to skip the crowds and spend New Year’s Eve at home with your honey. These suggestions should go well with most types of champagne (in general, when serving champagne, it’s best to stick with lightly spiced Cantonese cuisine, particularly seafood dishes). If you’re serving wine, a German Riesling would be a good choice.

Start with some Spring Rolls as an appetizer. Feel free to nibble on them with some wine while preparing the main dish together.

Main Dish – Shrimp in Lobster Sauce

Ingredients:

• Fresh shrimp, deveined and butterflied, 10 - 15 per person
• 4 to 8 spring onion (green onions, scallions), chopped
• 2 large garlic cloves, chopped or minced
• 2 cups of chicken stock (2 cups water with chicken bouillon powder, or chicken broth)
• 4 tablespoons of sweet white wine, such as sweet Glen Ellen White Zinfandel
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons of Cornstarch and 1/2 cup of water
• 4 egg whites, beaten with 1/4 cup of water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for stir-frying
• 1 to 2 cups pork fried rice (1 cup for 2 people, 2 cups for 3 or more)
•  

Preparation:

Rinse the shrimp in warm water and pat dry. Rinse the spring onions, drain and chop. Chop or mince the garlic cloves.
Combine the chicken stock, white wine, soy sauce, and sugar and set aside. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch into 1/2 cup water. Whisk the egg whites into 1/4 cup water and set aside.
  Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, large pot, or frying pan or skillet on medium high to high heat.
Stir fry the garlic and spring onions for about 30 seconds to a minute, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Add the shrimp and stir fry for 2 minutes.
Add the chicken broth mixture, bring to a boil and boil about 1 minute.
Re-stir the cornstarch and water mixture and stir it into broth. Immediately afterward, slowly pour in the egg whites, breaking them up by gently stirring them with a fork (the author recommends stirring them twice across and then twice across again in a tic tack toe pattern). Be careful not to over stir the egg whites.
  

The dish is ready when the sauce begins to boil and thicken. Serve over the pork fried rice and steamed Snow Peas.

Be sure to have some Fortune Cookies for after the meal.

Friday Funnies

Holiday Fun with Author Alexa Bourne

Romantic Suspense author Alexa Bourne is no stranger to Romantic Interludes. Alexa is a teacher by day and a romance writer by nights, weekends, and all school holidays. She also teaches online classes for writers throughout the year. She writes romantic suspense and contemporary romance and is thrilled to have the chance to share her stories with readers everywhere.

When she’s not concocting sinister plots and steamy love scenes or traveling and exploring new cultures, Alexa spends her time reading, watching brainless TV, and thinking about exercising. Okay, she also spends way too much time interacting with readers and writers on social media sites. But don’t tell her editors!

 Let's welcome her today as our special guest!  

Happy Holiday Alexa!

Happy Holidays, everyone! Do you have a favorite holiday movie? I do! I love almost any version of A Christmas Carol. I will watch cartoon versions, TV movie adaptations, stage productions. As a middle school teacher, I’ve had my students perform the play for other classes and I’ve guided student groups to create their own version of the play. I love the story of Scrooge and how his heart opens to the world around him. I love that the movie expresses what our world should be like no matter what our differences are.

My favorite version of the movie is the 1951 black and white version starring Alistair Sim. I don’t know why this is my favorite. I think part of it might be because in that time period, Hollywood didn’t have all the bling and pizzazz with movie production it has now, but the actors still managed to give such a charming life to an age-old story we can all relate to.

The years I lived alone, several hundred miles from my family and with no money to fly home, it became a tradition to watch it on Christmas Eve. After dinner, I would plug in the Christmas tree lights, light up candles in the living room, open my gifts people had sent me, and then sit on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate while I watched the movie. (Don’t worry. I wasn’t alone for the whole holiday! I worked early Christmas morning & then spent the day with my closest friend and her family.)  

How about you? Do you have a favorite holiday movie? What is it that draws you to the story?

Find out more about Alexa Bourne and her books on her website

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Erotic Author Clare Dargin Talks About Her New Book

Clare Dargin is an author of science fiction, paranormal romance, military sci-fi as well as interracial and multicultrual fiction. This amazing gal with her over active imagination has given us stories that are out of this world!

[Ménage Amour: Erotic Ménage a Trois Romance, M/F/M, HEA]

A Siren Erotic Romance

BUY NOW 

Jilly Reimers wants love but can't find it. Chris Spinell is a veteran of the war in Afghanistan who suffers from PTSD and a haunting feeling that something is missing in his life. Chris Poole is also an Afghanistan war veteran is ready to break out of his shell but is unsure how.

With Christmas just around the corner, they decide not to spend it alone. Believing The Love Play Matchmaking Service to be just what they need for a night of fun and passion, they sign up. But when the guys show up and see that they've been set up on a menage, the only one happy about it is Jilly. 

Their consultant, called an Eros, assures Jilly that the service has a perfect track record but she's certain they'll be the first ones to get their money back. Will they have a very merry Christmas? Or will the three spend yet another one alone?

Thank you Clare for joining us on this blustery winter day. I have coffee, tea and hot cocoa available. Just help yourself. 

 Now, you have some sci-fi romance stories and some military. How many books have you prior to Merry "Chris"Mas?

 Actually it's my seventh.  Yay!!! Believe me it's a triumph considering it had been a dream of mine to be published ever since I was thirteen years old.

You have a hyper imagination like me. I get ideas all the time for new stories. What inspired you to write your Merry "Chris"Mas? Is anything in the book based on someone you know or events in your own life?

LOL!  Oh boy that's a loaded question.  How do I respond?  Well, I'll answer the second question first-- I don't know them personally but the characters are inspired by real people.  I saw a meme on a social network that I'm on and I got to thinking some naughty thoughts and the story kinda told itself.

Sounds like the story was easy. Come on, fess up. What was the hardest or most challenging part to write?

Without giving anything away, it was the central conflict between the two guys because they are so likable and easy going.  I just wanted every one to get along.

Who did you picture when you created the hero?

For the two heroes a couple of well known personas- that's all I'm going to say for now.  ;)

Sorry.... I spaced out for a minute as I imagined who it might be. LOL How do you come up with your characters’ names? 

Normally, I utilize my reference list and then see if a name fits the individual character.  And sometimes there's an automatic match and then there are times when I have to resort to the internet and I hunt down the perfect name for hours!

Which character is your favorite? 

I can't choose!  I love them both!  Believe me! They are my dream guys.

I love the title, how did you come up with it?

I had a theme in mind when I thought of the series and a specific time of year in which it would be set, so it made since do a play on words.

The cover is super smexy. Who designed it.

Harris Channing at Siren Bookstrand designed it.  She did an awesome job.  I love the balance of color and the sense of a winter chill along with the seasonal theme of Christmas without it being too Christmas-y with wreaths and bulbs everywhere which may not play as well during other times of the year (it was released December 24, 2014).  I think this way it doesn't look like a Christmas book.  But looks like a book that takes place during the holiday season but could just as easily be set during a different time of year.

Fan want to know...give them a fun fact or more about the book.

Since I live in Michigan, I place a lot of fun tidbits about my home state through out.  Things I think only a native Michigander may know.  If you are Michigander especially one who lives or has lived in the Metro Detroit area, you'll point and say, I know that!  Whoa!

As a fellow Michigander, I've noticed that. *wink, wink* Love it!!! One of these days we need to zip over to the Ann Arbor area and check out the brewery owned by fellow romance author, Liz Crowe. Just don't wear any of your State gear. 

Back on subject...are you currently working on something?  

I'm always working on projects.  Currently I'm working on an shifter romance for a different publisher and I hope to have that completed very soon! 

Squeeee!!! I have a hunch I know who it's for. I can't wait!!! Before we head out to brave the Michigan weather, do you have anything you would like to say to your readers?

Yes.  Thank you so much for your patience and support.  Since I don't write full time, I have to write whenever I get a chance and it really means a lot that you've stuck by me for so long.  I promise this book and the others within the series will not let you down.  

I'm sure you won't, Clare. Thank you for visiting with us today!

Be sure to visit Clare and check out not only her latest book but all of them. Perfect reading for these cold winter nights.

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Thursday 13 - Sexy New Year's Resolutions

So many New Year Resolutions are made and quickly forgotten. Not only are these promises easily forgotten when we are caught up in the hustle of everyday life, but also we can forget about the love in our lives. Try making a few resolutions that won't be forgotten and easily obtainable. Make your relationship with that special someone a priority, put pleasure first on your resolution list.

1.  Plan to have more sex. We schedule time to shop, get our hair done, and take the kids to soccer... Being spontaneous is not always easy and by some simple plans to be more sexual, you'll actually end up having more sex. 

2. Get away from it all. Send the kids away for the weekend or escape for a night alone. Grab a movie, dinner and a romp in a cheap hotel. Use this time to NOT talk about family, friends or work. Focus on each other.

3. Do some redecorating in the bedroom. Our surrounding have a significant impact on how we feel. Turn your bedroom into a sensual room. Add some sexy satins, new pillows, mirrors, incense or candles, artwork to create an environment to bring out your sexual animal.

4.  Exercise more. I'm talkin' the horizontal mambo three /four times a week. Not only are calories being burned in a super fun way, but with each orgasmic session your endorphins (the chemical in your brain that makes you happy) will do miracles for your mood and zest for life!

5. Stop the sensory deprivations. Get off the computer; turn off the cell phone, put down the e-reader. It's time to get your hands into life! Cook with your honey and savor every tasty moment. Inhale life's scents and enjoy the fragrance of the world around you whether it is a sensual perfume or the way the air smells after a rain shower. Gaze into your partner's eyes and drown in the lipid pools of desire.  

6. Save your money and give each other full body massages. Invest in some scented massage candles and let your inhibitions fly out the window. Pick up some edible massage oil. Don't leave out the happy ending!

7. Eat in bed. Whipped cream, chocolate body paint, honey dust! Decadent and suggestive foods coupled with steamy sex make a rather delicious combination.

8. Make food a sensual part of your life. Forget the chips and go for the juicy, creamy and succulent stuff. Fresh strawberries, ripe peaches, and bananas can be cut into bite sizes. Finger food can be very sensual; take your time eating to experience the textures and flavors. Savoring food can be great practice for savoring sex.

10.  Make yourself feel sexier every day. Go through your panty drawer and buy yourself some new sexier styles. Lose the flannels, the old rugby jersey and stop lounging about with holey socks. Try some sexy silk pajamas or simple lingerie you can wear under your clothes. Treating yourself to sexier underclothes will help you tap into your sexy side. Indulge in a new fragrance that makes your partner hot. Wax, shave, work out... whatever makes you feel good about yourself and sexy.

11.  Have an affair - with your partner of course!  Here's your chance to have fun with a sexual fantasy.    Share your fantasies with each other or create one together then act on them.  Dress  as a seductive stranger and meet at a secret location, hotel, or bar.  Have fun with costumes, they can be just what you need to get started.

12.  Get back to the basics.  Rediscover the art of kissing.  Spend a night simply "making out".  Just be careful if you go "parking".  Be open and honest with your partner by sharing what really turns you on.  Be romantic by leaving notes with hints and sexy suggestions where your honey will find them.  Take time to explore each other's bodies to learn likes and dislikes.  Be open to pleasure.

13.  Be more playful and creative.    Try something sexually new.  Play with sex toys.  Visit a swingers' club.  Get a book on sexual positions and try all of them at least once.  For a more spiritual sex life, study Kama Sutra.  Take a class on strip tease or belly dancing.  Pick up a couple sex games and play.  Feel free to visit your local adult store, the staff is very discreet and helpful.

CLICK HERE for more Thursday 13 from some amazing authors.

Host a Holiday Cookie Swap

Too busy to do much holiday baking?

Then host a cookie exchange party.

 

 

 

Invite your girlfriends over and tell each to bring at least 2 dozen cookies to sweet treats.  Have a table set aside with empty trays and let your guest place their treats on the trays. Make sure there are plenty of treats to sample and some holiday beverages.

 

Plan to have a couple "door prizes" such as a cookie cookbook, a pretty apron, or a cookie jar.  Before they leave they can pick out and take home as many cookies as they contributed.from the wonderful selection.

 

 



 

The Visionary was the signature cocktail served at Glamour’s Women of the Year Awards

 

 

Ingredients
1.5 ounces Baileys® Original Irish Cream
3 ounces brewed Chai Tea
...

Raw brown sugar
Cinnamon stick

Directions:
Brew a pot of chai tea. Add 2 teaspoons of raw brown sugar for every cup. Stir until dissolved. Fill a coffee mug with chai tea and add Baileys. Stir with a cinnamon stick.

This recipe contains no more than 0.6 fl. oz. of alcohol per serving.

 

Offer this drink during a cookie exchange party with the girls. 

 

 

For more ideas on hosting a Cookie Swap, visit Robin Olson's page CookieExchange.com

 

4th of July - Romantic Picnic

Usually, the words “romantic” and “4th of July” don’t appear in the same sentence, but that doesn’t mean you can’t plan a wonderful, cozy day with the one you love! So, if you’d like to avoid the crowds and plan a day for two, the Fourth of July is a great time to do it.

If you’re planning a romantic meal, you’re not likely to go for the traditional Fourth of July fare like hamburgers and hot dogs. Instead, opt for something a bit simpler that’s not going to require tons of preparation and clean-up. The idea is to spend quality time with the one you love, so keep the work to a minimum.

The easiest romantic picnic is what many would refer to as French-style. That includes a great big loaf of crusty bread, a variety of cheeses, some fruit, and a bottle of your favorite wine or champagne. Purchase a rotisserie chicken from your local deli if you wish. This can be eaten warm or cold. End the meal with some fresh strawberries!

You might consider starting your picnic at dusk so you can hang around for the fireworks. A great ending to any romantic Fourth of July picnic includes the opportunity to sit under the stars the show! As with the picnic location, seek out a site that’s not crowded but still provides a good view of the festivities, if possible. Spread out a blanket, lay back, hold hands, and admire the sky rockets! And don’t rush home once the fireworks are finished. Linger a little while and bask in the beauty of the night before you pack up.

Holiday Hotties and Mistletoe

Welcome to another stop on the RWBB Holiday Hoties Tour. It’s a mini tour with prizes and fun. Follow the links below. I hope you started at Romance Writers Behaving Badly blog and just left The Rantings & Ravings of Jeanne St. James
"The mistletoe is hung up near a doorway or in the kitchen and young men have the privilege of kissing girls under it, plucking each time a berry from the bush. When the berries are all plucked the privilege ceases."
The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is one of my favorites and I believe a lot of kissing under the mistletoe has been going on for ages. In today's tradition the part about plucking the berries (which, incidentally, are poisonous), and then all kissing under the mistletoe ends when the berries run out!
Sometimes the kissing hottie comes along with a gift.


As a little girl, my mother told me how a young lady standing under a ball of mistletoe, brightly trimmed with evergreens, ribbons, and ornaments, cannot refuse to be kissed. Such a kiss could mean deep romance or lasting friendship and goodwill. If the girl remained unkissed, she cannot expect not to marry the following year.


I found references of "kissing under the mistletoe" in Celtic rituals and Norse mythology. In Gaul, the land of the Celts, for instance, the Druids considered it a sacred plant. It was believed to have medicinal qualities and mysterious supernatural powers. (Hmm... I wonder what kind of "power" I would have if I wear a piece of mistletoe on my coat. After all... I am Scandinavian.)



The Norse myth of Baldur. Baldur's death and resurrection is one of the most fascinating Norse myths and stands at the beginning of the history of mistletoe as a "kissing" plant.

Baldur's mother was the Norse goddess, Frigga. When Baldur was born, Frigga made each and every plant, animal and inanimate object promise not to harm Baldur. But Frigga overlooked the mistletoe plant -- and the mischievous god of the Norse myths, Loki, took advantage of this oversight.

Ever the prankster, Loki tricked one of the other gods into killing Baldur with a spear fashioned from mistletoe. The demise of Baldur, a vegetation deity in the Norse myths, brought winter into the world, although the gods did eventually restore Baldur to life. After which Frigga pronounced the mistletoe sacred, ordering that from now on it should bring love rather than death into the world. Happily complying with Frigga's wishes, any two people passing under the plant from now on would celebrate Baldur's resurrection by kissing under the mistletoe.

I have my mistletoe hanging. Do you?







I hope you enjoyed my ramblings. Don't forget, you need to leave a comment on EVERY blog for a chance to win. The next stop on the tour is my good friend,Gem Sivad's Gem's Place. Here is a list of our participants:

1. Jeanne St James-
2. Mary Quast- you are here
3. Gem Sivad-
4. Christa Paige-
5. Savanna Kougar-
6. Dawne Prochilo-