| Josi and Sergio first met in their
hometown of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1991. They dated for several years
until 1995, when Sergio moved to Chicago, Illinois to start a new
chapter in life. He was also excited to be closer to two of his grown
children – his oldest daughter, Sabrina (who now lives in Virginia) and
his son Igor, who lives in Illinois. His second daughter, Paula remained
in Rio with her family. |
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| Sergio started a janitorial services
company serving Chicago-area school districts and churches and enjoyed
great success. However, something was missing from his life. During
annual trips to Rio, Sergio would not only see his parents and the rest
of his family, but he would also visit with Josi. |
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| Josi was in the middle of a successful
career in banking where she was known for excellent customer service. Her
clients not only saw her as a business acquaintance, but as a dear friend
who looked out for their every need. And after several visits, Sergio
realized what was missing in his life – Josi!! |
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| Sergio and Josi were married in 2002, when
she moved to the United States. One year later, the whole family
celebrated the arrival of Kathleen, Sergio’s and Josi’s daughter. Now
seven years old, Kathleen likes to describe herself as a “toy person.” |
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| Sergio’s passions are boats and airplanes
(he is a pilot). And both love travelling the globe, experiencing new
cultures, and of course, world cuisine! A diversity of world flavors is
evident in Sergio’s cooking when he gathers with family and friends in
the best part of the house – the kitchen. |
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| Josi has many passions, God, her parents,
step kids and relatives. Today she divides her time between her three
loves – Kathleen, Sergio and hospitality. She studied hospitality at Penn
Foster College, PA and obtained hands on expertise by working for Indigo
Boutique Hotel near Chicago. |
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| In 2010, inspired by Elvis’ movie “Follow
That Dream”, Josi and Sergio decided to leave the snow of Illinois behind
to follow the dream of owning and operating a Bed and Breakfast (in a
warmer climate of course). They fell in love with The Pine Lodge and its
cozy cottages, decorated rooms and surrounding beauty of Florida’s
Nature Coast. |
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| Everybody has a dream, and every day, the
Soares family is realizing their dream of helping guests feel at home as
they enjoy the beauty of nature |
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