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Tuesday, June 02, 2009

Moving... In Stilettos...

A couple weeks ago, Hellfire aka Kar moved into her brand new home. During the move, our friends J & SL made a joke "Will Lys be Moving In Stilettos?"

Hardy Har Har... (for the record, it was sneakers, a Phillies hat and totally dressed down *LOL*) but the idea stuck.

I've been beyond unhappy with the dorm situation along with a few other situations going on in my life and it's time to take action. Those close to me know that I will be, indeed, moving in stilettos when the lease is up.

So bear with me while I'm torn in 20 different directions and will be posting but not as in depth as I'd like. There will be SO much to disclose - just can't do it here on the blog - JUST yet.

Keep your fingers crossed - the apartment hunt starts now. Game on because not only does this Cooking In Stilettos wench need a kitchen that rocks, but a closet that is Loubou worthy... Oh - and some nice non-college age neighbors would be cool too. Why can't a gal have it all, right?

Labels: Goals, Moving, Moving In Stilettos, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 10:42 PM :: 3 comments

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Sunday, June 22, 2008

Lots to Do... Little Time To Do It In...

Needless to say, work's been kickin' my butt into overdrive. Sadly, my personal life has taken a backseat to the madness. So, this week I need to zap my happy behind into gear and here's my checklist to start the week:

Finally pick up my dry cleaning. It's been 2 weeks and I think they are going to string me up by the stilettos. I also need to drop off a few suits and a comforter that needs cleaning. Last time I tried to do it myself, I ripped it in the washer.
Return a dress that makes me feel like June flippin' Cleaver. To quote Meowmix "Return it!". Do I love the dress - no. It's cute but seriously, how many black and white dresses does a girl need. Plus - that money can be used to pay down bills.
Return a few things that have been waiting for 3 weeks for me to bring back, i.e. impulse buys which include a new cutting board (don't need it), a book that regurgitates the same mess on debt reduction (don't need it - I can just get the same info from my blogs, etc.), some makeup which I DON'T need. (well I'm too weak to open the jar and I don't need yet another brown eyeshadow) and, maybe, those sandals that I recently bought (money would be better in my bank account as I wait for them to go on sale.)
Work on the closet and figure out what needs to be put on eBay and start on Declutter Project 2008. I need to start rifling through all the stuff I have and evaluate if I REALLY need some of this stuff around here. I'm not always going to have an apartment that's 932 sq. feet. I need to pare down.
I also need to hang up clothing galore and get back into the whole "You have so many hangers - no buying NEW hangers - reduce what you have" theory. That includes stuff that doesn't fit and needs to be tossed, donated or sold. No mercy, my friends - no mercy.
Same for Jewelry - that whole jewelry box needs to be re-evaluated. I have a rule of one statement piece balanced with one minimal piece. Those that don't work - out out out!
Mail out packages that I've been meaning to send. I FINALLY returned the SW pumps from 2.5 months ago and I've had ShoeAddict's package on my desk that NEEDS to go out Monday before she strings me up by my stilettos.
Start cooking at home more. I actually cooked tonight and I forgot how relaxing it can be. Perhaps tomorrow I'll cook again.
Go to Costco to pick up some various necessities like Gas, Dishwasher Detergent, Laundry Detergent and some cheese. Sometimes it's better to pay a bit more when you are getting a better deal and there is no way in HELL I'm paying any more than possible for gas. Costco gas it is.
Toss out the boxes that I've kept "just in case" for "moves, etc." Listen, I don't really need to worry about keeping the original Cuisinart food processor box or boxes from my Nigella pots, etc. I'll package them mover style when I'm ready to move on out. Now they are taking up valuable space.
Clean out the car - something that is desperately needed.
Actually bring UP the new suitcase I bought 3 weeks ago and get rid of a couple others that are currently in my closet from touring days.
Work on my Budget/Personal Finance excel workbook. I've had my head in the sand TOO long and I'd like to get this done so I can get back on the PF bandwagon. I need to work on that FICO score quickly and the more I wait and play ostrich, the more I am only hurting myself.
Start planning the Philly trip. We've got the car and the airline tix - just need to start the party planning, the errand planning and all the stuff that goes into actually PLANNING when I go back home.
Speaking of Philly - this gal needs to get back on the workout wagon. I stopped due to the chaos and no more. I need to break out the pilates and hip hop abs dvd. So what if it kicks my butt - I'll be Philly ready in no time.

I'm sure I'll add to the list, but there's too much to do and little time to do it in.

Labels: Apt, Blog 365, Cooking, Finance, Goals, PF

Posted by Lys :: 1:34 AM :: 4 comments

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Sunday, June 15, 2008

Wandering Soul...

I remember when I was young, I always had a fascination with Europe. I never knew why but I remember once announcing to my parents that I thought we should drive to Poland and go camping over in Krakow. Growing up, I went to a polish catholic school and we were required to take polish lessons frome grade 2 on. I guess I thought it would be neat to SEE the country where I learned to say "Go home and go to bed you old lady" (I thought I was brilliant - I know - far from). Through all those lessons I can only remember two things. The above phrase and the word for "Fish". Other than that - totally out of my head and no retention, whatsoever.

Even when I was getting in trouble from the nuns on the school yard for reading rather than being a social butterfly, I was obsessed with biographies and historical events, mostly Egypt history (still think Hatchepsut was the best. ruler. ever.) and World War II. Perhaps World War II due to my grandfathers fighting in it, but the history of Auschwitz really captivated me as I tried to understand how a person could inflict so much horror on a group of people because of their religion.

While I was in my teens, my desire to travel waned, but when I split from Mark eons ago, I ignited my passion for travel. Sure, I'd go to Philly on the regular but that really didn't count in terms of far and away. Thankfully, I was presented an opportunity to wander when I was doing PR and Vegas became one of my favorite destinations. Meowmix and I would escape to Toronto once or twice a year for various events but actually go to spots where I couldn't technically drive to wasn't until a couple years ago when I went on a cruise with Meowmix, Tra and one of their friends to the Caribbean.

Since then, I've wondered where else I should wander to. After I hit a couple personal goals in the next year or so, I know I want to actually "Travel". Straight up - break out a passport and zip around the world travel. (Note to self: Lys needs to GET a passport first. Perhaps that should be one of my immediate goals, no?)

I know that I want to go to Italy on some sort of a culinary vacation and, after running across a interesting blog with some seriously fabulous photos and travel stories this weekend, Poland crossed my path again - namely going to Krakow and visiting Auschwitz. Seeing the photos made me want to go check it out for myself. Egypt is still one of my "have to see" destinations. I remember Mark telling me once that we couldn't go to Egypt on our honeymoon due to the fact that he refused to muck about in sand. I don't think it's a popular honeymoon spot. Regardless, Egypt is still on my wish list, just not sure when it will be possible with all the unrest going on over there. And, of course, Puerto Rico is also on my itinerary - hopefully in the next year or so.

What are some of your favorite travel spots?

Labels: Blog 365, Goals, The Secret, Travel

Posted by Lys :: 7:43 AM :: 6 comments

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Sunday, June 08, 2008

Making The First Move...

I've pretty much been holding my emotions at bay but I finally let loose last night. I have made no secret of it that things have been pretty stagnant here and, when I find an opportunity to move on with my life to do something different, factors step in and, basically, block me from pursuing. Some of which, I know, is my own internal radar going "Wait a minute, you know that you can't volunteer due to XYZ" or what I've learned (and oft. suspected) blockage by others to serve their own needs and not for the good of my own interests. However, rather than let my anger go from a simmer to a boil, I've decided that I need to take my own interests to heart and chart my own destiny - rather than what one might chart for me.

In long talks with my family and my close friends, they've heard my frustration and they heard my annoyance with the status quo. Through their constant support and unwavering faith in me, I've made the decision to take the bull by the horns so to speak. I've thought long and hard this weekend and I'm going to break this barrier and the first person to try and stop me from achieving my goals will definitely see my temper. I know I have to stay in some situations only because of circumstance but once those circumstances are taken care of, I can move forward.

Now, I have a huge goal in front of me that I'm breaking into tiny pieces. Obviously, I can't detail it all here but now I have a bit of a plan (and a spreadsheet) in place, I can start to put things into play. I think once the ball starts rolling, it will begin to move fast and furious and I have to think "Lys, are you really prepared for this? Have you really thought this through?" and I can say with all honesty, I have.

Joel Osteen said something that when we stop growing and learning, we grow stagnant and I have to agree with that wholeheartedly. I've always said that when I stop learning, I get bored and, to tell the truth, I've been bored for far too long. I'm not challenged or inspired. And I am way too young to just accept the status quo and plod along bored and unchallenged.

Now, I'm off to go work on that spreadsheet while I figure out what's my first move.

Labels: Blog 365, Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 3:48 PM :: 5 comments

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Monday, April 07, 2008

300 Days...

Today it was a combo of 9to5 mixed in with a little entertainment calls during my lunch hour just to try and keep the skills from getting TOO rusty. All in all, success. However, it reminded me that sometimes I need to recognize that I tend to sell myself short and pigeonhole myself in a category that doesn't take into account all that I can do (and have done). I think that by letting the 9to5 get to me as badly as it did, it set me back a bit. Hanging out with JoeZ and FormerClient put things into a new perspective, much like my travel to Philly did in February - it reinforced everything that I've been feeling for a while. I need to make a change.

So, while I had to make some decisions here in the short term, now I have to focus on the bigger picture and the long-term goals. I know where I want to go, what I want to do, etc. Its just prepping the outline and the planning to get to that next level. And, by doing so, I'm pretty much "putting it out there" - a template for success, one might say.

I know that, come February, it's a whole new ball game out there and this gives me perspective. 300 days from today until I hit my goal. While it seems like alot right now, I know that, in reality, it's going to go by quickly. 300 days to work on the credit. 300 days to fix the damage that was done from back in the day. 300 days to go through the clutter and weed out what is not needed. 300 days to work on what damage I brought upon myself. 300 days to find a new place. 300 days to get everything in motion. 300 days until I really am *home*.

And, somehow, it doesn't seem that far off.

Labels: Blog 365, Finance, Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 4:38 PM :: 1 comments

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Friday, March 28, 2008

This Too Shall Pass...(Or Will It?)

These past couple weeks, things have been moving crazy fast and, along the way, when the stress has gotten to the breaking point - something has diverted my attention from the elephant that has been looming - situations at the day to day.

Sure, my bag popped up and I was distracted. Then my glasses - I said "Hmmm..the Universe heard my request". This morning was the kicker tho - I got an email from my gal D that THE Weitzmans I wanted - the Tortoise Fever ones were in MY SIZE FOR DIRT CHEAP at Bluefly - now I'm excited and think "Hmm... great day today!" (They should be here in a week)

If I only knew that the Universe was about to pull the rug out from under me. See - it's been placating me with little "bribes" to make me not face the inevitable - bad behavior cannot be tolerated and y'all know, I cannot suffer BS lightly. As of 7:54 tonight - the old Lys returns. The one who WILL talk back. The one who WILL say what's wrong with you. The one who WILL say the only person that will be the best person might be Rosie the Robot - I'm human. I can only stand so much.

And, even better is what it took for me to really say "ENOUGH" is something that I haven't had to deal with for a year and a half - an attack on my side. See, throughout my teens and early 20s, I would suffer from frequent diabolical attacks on my side and flare-ups of diverticulitis. It would feel like someone would stab me repeatedly, twist the knife, wait a second and do it again. I would avoid tomatoes, acid and things that would send me to the ER. Since I moved to Orlando they still happened but not as severe. I know how to take care of it - normally Advil, rest and an aversion to any and all tomatoes (tho sauce and ketchup are no problems).

Since I started eating healthy, I haven't had a problem in the past year and a half AND I can eat tomatoes. Sure I get sick sometimes but when I crave it - I indulge - because when I get sick, it's not the attacks. It's manageable. Today - I got walloped - and, like a trooper (or fool) that I am, I soldiered on. Because no matter HOW livid I was, dammit I would NOT let anyone's antics get the best of me. There is a reason WHY I always keep Advil nearby.

And then, as a brief "It's OK, Lys - hang in there", the Universe gave me a little distraction when I was in Costco tonight picking up a couple things - Sur La Table's cookbook that I spotlighted on Cooking In Stilettos yesterday. I was going to order it this weekend but it was cheaper at Costco and, while I can't get it autographed, that's fine. I want to use the book and if it's signed, I might freak out. So I'll be perusing the pages at some point trying to clear my head before Monday.

But this weekend is MY weekend and dammit, if work calls, I'm not available. I'll be too busy cooking, resting, planning my buddy's birthday surprise, returning some shoes I don't need (that money is better in my bank account) and making room in my closet for the new Weitzman pumps.

Labels: Blog 365, Goals, Random Mess, Shopping, Weekend

Posted by Lys :: 10:30 PM :: 1 comments

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Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Lots to Yip About... Little Can I Talk About...

Lots of stuff going on in the Lys household - namely, some decisions were made and your gal went forth and starting making things happen. However, as I can't really talk about it here at JB, just send lotsa good thoughts my way and I will disclose when the time is right ;) (Some of you might know exactly what's going on but shhhhh - our secret, 'k).

Also, I had some wake up and get with it moments - namely I stepped on the scale. Those that knew me from way back when know how I lost 70 lbs and busted my butt - well thanks to Easter cookin', I gained back 5 of it. So now I have a goal to lose 10lbs by May 9th - Rome's b'day soiree. If more, fabulous, if less - I'm suspended from coffee. And my coffee order is going to change. I order Nonfat 'bucks for everything but now no more caramel macchiatos. NONE, NADA, NIL! Sugar Free Hazelnut Nonfat Iced Latte please.

It also means that I need to rejuvenate my SparkPeople membership and start countin' those calories. Sure - some of the stuff I cook tastes fabulous - but not if it's 20lbs straight to my butt, right? NO MORE. As with my work with the 9to5, I rarely have time to get in a little exercise outside of my trysts to Starbucks but I'm going to have to have a "talk" with Shadow and tell her "On the leash chickadee - we need to go for a walk". Shadow likes being outside - just not always on her leash & harness. And trying to get out of the 9to5 when it's daylight is virtually impossible. So some changes need to be made (again). I say I'm going to do things and somehow I've become a doormat of sorts (or at least it feels like it) so no more.

And there's other stuff but my brain is pretty much non-existent. I had a bit of a shopping excursion to Palm Beach yesterday - will disclose more tomorrow. Here's a hint - Sur La Table - YAY! Stuart Weitzman/Williams Sonoma-BOO!

Hope you all had a fabulous Easter!!!

Labels: Blog 365, Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 5:55 PM :: 5 comments

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Saturday, January 12, 2008

Goal For 2008...

I'm watching Giada de Laurentiis tour Italy and Rachael Ray tour Provence and it got m thinking. I think I'm going to get to work on a goal of mine... Learn Italian. I've wanted to visit Italy for a few years and, for an Irish gal, I can cook some mean Italian dishes (and Spanish too but that's for another day). I'm debating checking out an online course in Italian at RosettaStone.com and I can get cash back for it as well. My brain is workin' overtime.

Question to you - have you ever tried to learn a language and/or tried RosettaStone?

Labels: Blog 365, Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 9:32 PM :: 2 comments

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Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Glutton for Punishment, I Am.

Here's something fun. Y'all want to see my head spin like the Exorcist?? Cuz I can ya know. I'm just a glutton for punishment (or other's amusement - you be the judge).

Well - let's see. In the last 48 hours I've:

Taken on a new project at the 9to5 which means even MORE chaos (and not fun chaos, advancement chaos - just chaos).
Decided to sign up for Blog 365 (ok - I'm 8 days late but still - I posted daily (I think). Clearly, NaBloPoMo wasn't enough for moi and some of my fave bloggers stepped up to the challenge and I decided to join in the ~~misery~~ fun. 365 days of content/fluff/pictures. Hmmm.. now that sounds like a challenge. Be prepared for blogging via blackberry too! Hell if I can sneak the BB into the Grammys I'll be live blogging the ridiculousness (or I'll recap drunkenly back at the hotel room).
Made a conscious effort to put down that Lindt truffle and try to fit into a dress for the Grammys. Heeellllooooo Cooking Light!
I'm going to attempt to go to the Florida Mall (Hell I tell you - HELL! At least it's a weeknight and not the weekend). I need to go to Nordys to look at Contender No. 1 and those shoes at Nine West and the Dolce Vita shoes at Nordys. Tonight is the goal. If I don't post tomorrow, you know I am still stuck in the bowels of hell.
Made an appointment to cut my hair. (It's Grammy prep. I can't dye it for fear of skunk stripe like last time, but still). I haven't decided how short I'm going but when Shaggy from Scooby Doo needs to watch out cuz my hair looks worse than his, oh lordy.
Finally got my banking and financial paperwork/computer files in order and started my 2008 filing system.
Signed the lease for 2008/2009 AND got the copy of the fully executed copy. BEFORE the lease starts. Unheard of for me.
Took action on another goal that I can't really put out on here JUST yet and got a response. The patience is killing me but it means changes are afoot. Keep your [virtual] fingers crossed.
Made plans to attend the Grammys with not only Reese and MB, but also two of our favorite people (and clients). Someone better tell Grey Goose it will be abused. Multiple times.
Actually started making my travel arrangements for LA (and more on that tomorrow - let's just say I'm absolutely enamoured with USAA. I *heart* them to the UMPTH degree now - even more than yesterday).
Decided to save my political rant (Orlando only - no Presidential politics right now on Just Because... ) for y'all later in the week because I actually want to RESEARCH and get my cards in order before I launch my verbal onslaught against a particular individual.
Have a couple special surprises for y'all in the next couple weeks - why - because I not only *heart* USAA, but y'all too.

There's more but I'm clearly needing a straight jacket at the moment in just thinking about the Chaos Project and BlogPoMo whatever. 357 days left to go.

Labels: Blog 365, Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 6:24 PM :: 3 comments

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Wednesday, January 02, 2008

Blogolutions for '08.

To use a term coined by The Hotfessional, I've decided to make some Blogolutions for Just Because... Things can only get better in 2008 and one of my goals is to focus a bit more on my blogging both here and Fashionista+. So this is a few ideas milling around my little blond brain.

One of my Blogolutions this year is to post a weekly (or bi-weekly) round up of posts and articles noticed around the 'Net which have caught my eye. The weekly round up should hit Friday/Saturday and, due to the short week - will start next Friday.

Blogolution # 2 is for me to commit to post on the regular, but have I committed to NaBlaBla 365 - not yet. Ask me after I've had a few cocktails... I just don't know if I can swing it with the Grammys and all and, after all - how much blog fodder do I really have?? That's a question I need to ask myself.

Blogolution #3 involves getting a REAL blog designer to design something a bit more permanent for moi both here and at Fashionista+. Caz does not do custom work and, while I tried to do it myself, HTML coding and I are far from friendly. I'm still learning... baby steps, people, baby steps. However, as that costs $$$, it will take a bit of time :) If anyone knows of any good blog designers, please shoot me an email at justanothagal [at] gmail [dot] com. Thank you!

Finally, one other Blogolution is to feature more content. We're talking more "fluff" and shopping (virtual and real) posts as well as reviews, recipes, giveaways, swag (if I can procure) etc. I won't get as cranky on the Orlando political rant front.. but still.

So the goals are S.M.A.R.T. (Small, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound - breakin' it down with thanks to Single Ma). Let's see how it pans out...

Labels: Blog, Blog 365, Fashionista, Goals

Posted by Lys :: 5:46 PM :: 3 comments

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Tuesday, January 01, 2008

Finances, Finances, Finances...

If something comes across my path repeatedly, I start to pay attention. Right now - everything on Fine Living is all about Time Management (I'm bad at that) and Financial Matters. And the main chatter topic outside of stocks, capital gains, 401(k), etc. - the dreaded EMERGENCY FUND.

This got me thinking - where is my emergency fund? Ala Carrie Bradshaw, where I can see it. Much of it is in my closet and used during the move to furnish the new abode. It's also in my kitchen. So this year, my goal is to fully furnish my emergency fund.

What is an emergency fund, one may inquire? (I'm the inquiring one - trust *LOL*)

From YourDictionary.com:

A cash reserve that individuals should have on hand that is easily accessible
and doesn't involve selling securities. Financial experts generally recommend
having three to six months of living expenses on hand in case income or a job is lost. [Emphasis added]

I've got to remember that emergency is NOT a pair of gorgeous pricey shoes. It's not a sizzling hot handbag. It's not that cordless immersion blender or copper risotto pot I'm currently lusting after. It's a fund for me to use should something happen - like real ummmm emergencies. As I have plans for this year both professionally and personally, I need to get off my butt (before it expands further) and work on my finances. And you, my dear readers, can feel free to slap me upside the head should I go nuts. Those big expenses I want and lust after - well, I can save for those separately, but I must start building up my E-Fund.

Currently, my ING account is wayyyy lower than it should be. I think Starbucks would scoff at the amount currently in there. As I look at the amount on my excel spreadsheet, I cringe because it should be soooo much more. Well, enough is enough -come January 15th, I have set up an automatic transfer set up for each paycheck with the hope that I should have some $$$ in there twice a month (three times in May and October with the new payroll change at the 9to5). That money needs to never dip below a certain amount - I don't care HOW cute various shoes are or how good of a sale is.

Reading various PF bloggers lists and goals this year has kicked me into overdrive. The one I really want to point out is Single Ma's blog. She's got some great advice on there and if you aren't reading it - you might want to. I also have some PF books that I will be reading and reviewing here on the blog.

The 401(k) account - no additional % will increase this year. There are a number of reasons for that and it wasn't an easy decision but one that had to be made. Not to disclose 9to5 bizness, but the match is not large AT all. It's less than a pair of Stuart Weitzman shoes. I contribute WAY more than that a year. Plus - I thought Suze Orman (or one of those PF people) suggest that you only contribute to the match and the rest to a Roth?? I could be wrong. However, my goal is to start my Roth with USAA by September. In addition to the Emergency Fund Challenge, I'd like to be credit card debt free by December. After that, I'm off and running on fully funding the Roth.

The Sharebuilder account - it's on hold. I've decided there is to be no buying of additional stocks for the next 4 months and that deduction originally earmarked for Sharebuilder will go straight to ING. I won't sell off the stocks I have currently, but at the end of 4 months, April 30, I will evaluate whether or not I will be restarting my automatic stock buys.

I also need to work on the decluttering around here and start putting some stuff on eBay. The proceeds - yup, you guessed it - ING. I have to admit, there are things with tags that I never have worn because they don't fit or look right and it was too late (or I was too lazy) to return. I know, I know - silly Lys! So, either they get donated or on eBay. Those that can be returned (like a 1/3 of what I got at Crate & Barrel and didn't absolutely NEED this Friday or a super cute bustier at Lane Bryant which I will NOT be wearing - total impulse buy) will need to be returned by Sunday. Return credits will be transferred to ING. The same goes for any cash back proceeds or interest earned.

Any money left over in my checking accounts at the end of a pay cycle from my paycheck will be transferred to ING outside of a small emergency cushion in each checking account. You start to see the pattern? Me and my ING account - Total BFF!

Basically I need to set procedures into place because, as I said yesterday, 2008 is *the* year for all of us. And your gal needs to make sure there is a bit of financial security on my end. That security will only begin when I put my mind to it. One thing with The Secret is you can say and visualize everything - but I've also learned that when you start to put things into motion is when things happen. Nothing comes to those who don't work for it.

So, to the Universe - know this - the Emergency Fund Challenge is hereby accepted!

Labels: Blog 365, Finance, Goals, PF, The Secret

Posted by Lys :: 8:28 PM :: 2 comments

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Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Peter & Paul: We Need To Chat...

I've been guilty, my friends - I've been robbing Peter to pay Paul, doing the bill juggle and, as of 2:07 this afternoon - I. Gave. Up.

"Enough with the finance juggle, Lys - you are going to drop more than one ball and break EVERYTHING" - I screamed internally. Some choices have to be made and soon. Now, the apartment fits and that's cool - I'm not moving again and can handle my rent costs alone but some of the other bills I need to get under control and quick. (Note to self: Explore VONAGE). Also, knowing that I'm about to deal with someone or something head on is better than drawing it out and procrastinating. Don't get me wrong, I am absolutely a rehabbing procrastinator. However, I've come to learn through life experience that procrastinating is just delaying the inevitable. If you know the band-aid is gonna hurt, just pull it off quick and deal with the sudden onslaught of pain - not wait, pull the band-aid slllloooowwwwlllyyy prolonging the agony and making it worse. Something like that was how it took me 6.5 years to dump Mark for good and look where THAT got me - bad credit, drama and the whole shebang. Don't even get me started on H. and his daggone Cell Bill.

So, last month I paid off one of the credit cards and, I'm slightly reassured by the fact that I filed away the card in my accordion bill folder which means I cannot use it. I won't however, just close the card account because it's my oldest card since the whole Mark & H. debacle and I refuse to ding my credit score by closing it. I'll just leave it where it is. I have another credit card that will be paid off December 1st and that will join it's brother in the folder. After that, its tackling the remaining CC debt while I build up my score and you better believe that it's ON now.

I've accepted the fact that I'm more than likely going to have to get a second 9to5 to just build up the e-fund and pay down the cards. I won't be able to do so until after December 1st, but hey - I can totally do retail. Retail and I are JUST fine - and it would be nice to get paid to help people shop rather than intruding on their space with my opinions (yes, I'm one of those types that will tell you if something looks great and, if it doesn't suggest an alternative). Plus the PRBiz is good but not bringing in that much $$$ right now. I'm over scheduled as it is. Is there a cloning machine somewhere? Basically I need a temporary influx of cash that selling plasma won't help at the moment. As an added bonus, I'm hoping to be DEBT FREE by the end of 2008. Let's hope, right?

The above drama combined with my February trip means an aggressive Debt Reduction/Savings Plan is in order. So, I'm warnin' y'all - I'm joining the Personal Finance bandwagon again. Seeing Valley Girl's list today inspired me a bit to re-evaluate a few things and lay out a plan. Because life is no good without a plan, right?

First Order of Business: Put down Nina Garcia's Little Black Book of Style and crack open the new Suze Orman - Women & Money.

Second Order of Business: Cut out the eating out and limit the Starbucks intake to 2-3 times a week while I'm at work (shouldn't be that hard now that I have quasi learned to make coffee). Ditto on the pre-work morning java. Also I need to start grocery shopping smarter (lists! Must have Lists!) and planning meals for the week. (Added bonus - hello weight loss wagon - we meet again!)

Third Order of Business: Clear out the clutter! What clutter can be sold is going on eBay. What clutter that needs to be donated is being donated. What clutter is taking up space is going in the trash or returned to where it needs to be.

Fourth Order of Business: Holiday shopping: 90% of my holiday shopping will be online and with cash back and whatever coupon codes there are. That with the addition of a list shall keep me in check. Lists and I need to get reacquainted again.

Fifth Order of Business: Limit the personal shopping. Any and all shopping in the immediate future has to be necessary and either with coupon, cash back or something. (Val - I don't think I'm strong enough tho to give up the Net-A-Porter or Bluefly virtual shopping visits tho! I just won't click the checkout button)

Sixth Order of Business: Re-watch The Secret - Re-watch it TWICE if I have to. Because, obviously I haven't been paying it much attention lately.

Well, I think that's a good start. Now excuse me please while I begin my second coffee making experiment...

Labels: Goals, NaBloPoMo, PF, Random Mess, The Secret

Posted by Lys :: 7:12 PM :: 6 comments

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Friday, November 02, 2007

Just a Teaser...

Trust me, I'm working on one heck of a post - just need to flush it out a bit.. .but I wanted to leave you with a little teaser of what I have fallen insanely in love with.

Let me set the stage - already I was heated from the Millenia Mall Fashion Week debacle of 2007, but after seeing Nina Garcia saunter by in her Christian Louboutin mules, I figured - "Just go to Neimans - you'll feel better. Go fondle the Manolos. They won't mind". I looked at a pair of Stuart Weitzmans that I was obsessing over and thought.. hmmm.. perhaps... I mean they are $285, but maybe at BlueFly they will be cheaper.

Then, like eyes meeting across a dimly lit room - I saw them. The Chanel Cap Toe Pump. In PEWTER, not the dirty off white & black like I saw up at Chanel. And, they were sitting all alone on the table just looking for a friend. How could I say no. So, upon picking them up to examine (again, and again, and again), I noticed - Size 41 aka 10.5. Hmmmm.. perhaps.

But how often is the shoe on the table my size - NEVER. I wear a 10, but I've learned with Euro sizing to go up 1/2 a size or a full size. So, I tried them on and it was like they were made for me. I teared up as I had to walk away as they were a little rich for my blood now, but I did take a picture to remember the moment (and to start stalking BlueFly).

Ladies & Gents - please meet the soon to be new addition to the Lys' Household. Now I just need to stop drinking coffee, buying groceries and start living on PB & J. I should have enough then for the shoes.

Labels: Goals, NaBloPoMo, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 6:06 PM :: 3 comments

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Thursday, September 06, 2007

Operation Credit - Armed and Dangerous...

Word to the wise: Never arm a blond gal with a little knowledge - she will run you over quicker than a fashionista on her way to a Manolo sample sale.

Over the past few years, I've been viciously attacking my credit report, and thankfully I did because when I pulled my scores this week, I saw that in about a year, my score jumped: Transunion +44 pts; Experian + 70 pts and Experian - 12 pts. WT??? Seriously - these three need to get their heads together. I have a few things I'm going to be attacking for 4th Quarter 07.

Reduce CC debt. I am planning to pay off 4 cards. They raised the limit on one of my cards without me even asking. The ones I did ask for were denied because they raised them "recently" (recently meaning last year and even then it was only $100.) While I won't be closing those, I will keep those for "emergency" and start closing out eventually.

Work on on the errors contained within the report. I.E. Verizon, for that daggone cell that H. had me get - well, they charged an amount of $2k (mind you he did that in ONE month), but then they also created ANOTHER account for $612. Another credit card company (back when I moved down here eons ago) took it upon themselves to issue a new card, but I never authorized nor activated it. Their version of "verification" - screen prints of their account system on a computer - no signature, nada authorizing it. Why - because they don't have it. Also - the first card I had with them was secured, sold off to a new bank (Merrick) and they never applied my security deposit. I made mistakes, but I've been extremely good with my credit to date. I got a second chance in 2005 and learned a valuable lesson - NEVER co-joint-authorize NADA! You would think I would have learned with Mark, but then I made the same mistake with H. Never again will I do that. Lesson learned.

Start a fight with the credit bureaus over their "verification" procedures. I've spoken with some of the characters there and, let me tell you, I now understand why some lawyers dumb down the letters. While it really offended me at first, I now see that perhaps Lexington Law has a few things up their sleeve. They did delete a number of things off my report.

Start a fight with the false judgment in Massachusetts. Apparently this is becoming a widespread problem. I've had one of my colleges who previously told me I had "student loans" and I took classes there for a FULL YEAR. Well, some time after I left them to return back to Bay Path [which is a whole other ballgame but I'll save that for another day] after I decided to not go to law school, this college changed their position and said I "didn't have student loans". However, they forgot to notify yours truly. No letter, no call, nada, nil, nothing. Riddle me this ****, what am I paying for then?

Very recently, this well known school had their General Counsel send me a nasty gram with this ridiculous 2 line settlement agreement. First of all, this is a general counsel of an academic institution with a law school and they send me a 2 line settlement agreement unenforceable under Florida law. Hell I could challenge it under Mass law. And, the interest is way more than the amount owed (and I say WAY more - close to amounts that should be deemed illegal but I'm not a lawyer). Obviously, if you can send me a letter at my NEW address that I just moved into now, but couldn't send any correspondence from 1992 + and this is the first I heard about it - isn't something a little fishy? And, the piece de resistance - they took a known shady law firm who got a false judgment with three of my addresses smooshed together in a town where it would have never been able to be served. I found out in Massachusetts this was the norm and the court system would allow it. (Check out the Boston.com series here.) They are trying to make changes now to the system. I'm waiting for the third letter to put an arrow in her snooty behind, with of course, copies going to the President of the School, local news agency and their director of alumni affairs (did I mention my dad is an alumni?) as well as the Board of Bar Overseers for the crooked law firm who filed the false judgment. If I have to fly home to argue it before a judge and retain counsel in town, I'm more than happy to do so, even looking up a former boss to see if he'll take the case for me. Eat that, ****! Oh - and if I have to, guess who's going to be paying legal fees, costs, etc. - not moi. The college will have that lovely bill. Perhaps they should take that out of the GC's salary. Research, sweetheart, research.

That's the shortened list, but wish me luck. I'm getting feisty again...

Labels: Goals, PF

Posted by Lys :: 5:04 PM :: 1 comments

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Friday, August 10, 2007

No More Teachers, No More Books...

No more teachers' dirty looks (or will there be)...

As some may know, I went to school for Pre-Law, opting to take the hardest course possible rather than a "cream puff" course at my school in Western Mass. They didn't have public relations at the time or even communications, however, I figured I would "make a difference" in law. Most of that thinking was based on my naivete as a very good friend of mine got screwed by the system based on someone's "misinterpretation" of the law. I wanted to go criminal and perhaps join the FBI. Based on my credit/school issues years ago, that dream had to be discarded. (Much props to my gal Susie and Meowmix who are working in law enforcement).

When I was 15, I fell in love with PR. I learned from one of the best mentors at the time, Yvette, as I hated to be on camera and would try to run into the control room as much as possible to see the behind the scenes stuff. Plus growing up I worked on a Junior Achievement Newspaper, created my own "newsletter" whatever (hey - I was young, 'k?) and took journalism in high school. I knew that somehow I wanted to work in entertainment, just not in FRONT of the scenes (or cameras, as it was). I learned entertainment PR the best way possible - on the job, doing PR for various local acts and worked with an 80s band for quite a few years. That life experience is not something you can plan for (or buy a degree in).

However, one thing always bugged me - my degree was in pre-law, NOT communications. I somehow always felt a step behind other PR professionals because I didn't have the formal training in corporate PR. I always rationalized it as Entertainment PR sometimes can be a whole different animal. While some of the fundamentals may be the same, the approach can be different.

Today, I did a bit of research and hopefully, if all goes well, I will take a few online classes in the next year through UCLA Extension. UCLA has an online course study in Entertainment PR and I guess we'll see what sparks flare up. Does this mean I'll go for my masters - perhaps in time. Getting back into the school swing of things is terrifying enough for me - even if it is online. I figure any knowledge is good and yeah, much of it might be just reinforcement, but nothing wrong with that, right?

Who knows, perhaps there is a hope for this cobwebbed brain o' mine.

Labels: Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 6:15 PM :: 4 comments

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Monday, June 25, 2007

The Secret...

I'm SOOO tired, however, its a tired feeling that was well worth it. I spent the evening finally watching the DVD of The Secret. I know, I know - the hype, the hoopla, but is it worth it. Well, while everything it said is common sense, it's a common sense head pounding that I think every person should experience at least once. While I was hoping to fall asleep and experience it ala osmosis or something, I got so into it, I was even writing down notes - at 2 o'clock in the morning. Reese & BR both advised that I should watch it, and I should have watched it sooner. I found myself more conscious of my thought processes and watched how some of my thoughts materialized into action. There is something to be said about this. (the thought of "I hope my coffee doesn't tip over tho - I should have not let that thought manifest *LOL* - ALL over the car seat. *sigh*).

While some may think it's a load of malarkey (as my Bampa might say), it really does make sense - what you put out, comes back to you; what you think, you attract and if you think and feel negativity, you get negativity. I, for one, refuse to accept anything else but the best and I will work hard (and smartly) to achieve it. The only one holding me back is me.

If you haven't checked it out yet - seriously, just give it a chance... it's a Secret that everyone really should know.

Labels: Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 8:50 PM :: 1 comments

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Thursday, June 21, 2007

Technology Impaired...

Well, I did it. I made friends (well sort of) with the Blackberry and, as of today, I'm still confused by all the bells and whistles of the Blackberry Curve. I do have a few gripes - AT&T Wireless/Cingular or whatever the hell they are calling themselves do NOT have alot of ringtones for the Blackberry 8300 aka "Curve". So, last night, I had to go and upload a song to Mobile17.com and generate a ringtone. Great, right? Well, Mobile17 DOESN'T have this model listed - so with that, I was beyond stressed! I finally was able to get that to work, but then I had the lovely task of importing my contacts.

Can I say, "HUH". I'm normally pretty self sufficient with the computer stuff, but this had me downing an ice coffee like it was a shot of Cuervo. It. Stressed. Me. Out. I had the speaker thing going for the phone but I don't know how the hell I did that. I had the synch thing working finally, but couldn't transfer music or files. I made the mistake of falling asleep with it on the bed and every. 10. minutes from 4:30 a.m. on, the damn thing would BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ - I guess that's when the junkmail is sent. In my sleep, I booted it off the bed quicker than when Shadow is snoring (yes, the cat can snore!). Then I had to get updated contact info from a bunch of people because my Razr had an old SIM card so I lost many of my contacts. What. The. @*@*#$. And, that will be an never-ending process.

So, I guess we're going to have a bit rocky road ahead, but let me tell you - I felt like quite the little PR rep when I was able to answer a question for a contact quickly. No logging into my mail and having clients/contacts, etc. on delay. I guess this means I really am on call 24/7. But, to quote one of my new favorite songs - "Is it better to burn out than to fade away".

**Note: while the Treo had the better rebate of $200, for what I need, I needed the Blackberry for function. *sigh* so I will only get back $100 from AT&T/Cingular/whatever. However, I did have a bit of extra money I have coming in so it all evens out in the wash, I guess. It still cost about the same as those Gucci Sandals I wanted. *sigh* one day...

Labels: Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 11:32 AM :: 2 comments

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Wednesday, June 20, 2007

What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid?

Mary over at Debt Proof Living posed an interesting question and, in light of recent events and things that have been holding me back, she wanted to know: "What would you do if you weren't afraid?".

Wow - now that question is deep. Seriously, I think the only thing that is holding me back from true success is "What if". I mean, yes, we all have the same struggles and day to day drama that eats away at one's positivity, however, looking at the past year, I have to list the number of successes that I have achieved and see where I can go to bigger and better things:

Con: Money was tight and credit - notsogood.
Upgrade: Got a raise, learned about my 401(k) to maximize, started reading PF blogs and applying principles so I can get my finances in check. I don't really need yet another pair of shoes or a bag every pay check, ya know.

Con: Living in Tourist Hell aka Buena Vista Point with crime rampant and not loving Orlando Politics and the drama that came with living in that area.
Upgrade: Moved out of BVP Hell and moved into a gorgeous 3rd Floor Apartment in gorgeous Uptown Altamonte Springs. Granted the rent is $400 more than I'm used to and utilities are a bit more, but it's well worth it.

Con: Became more of a "hermit" and didn't empower myself.
Upgrade: Renewed relationships with my Philly crew that have been "out of touch". Also have started to get to know people within the Altamonte Area and stopped being so damn shy! I'm fabulous, (or so I'm told), I just need to accept it and have a bit more confidence.

Con: Not kosher with how things have gone with things at the day job - it was more of a me being uninspired and feeling stagnant & hitting the "glass ceiling" of sorts.
Upgrade: Jumped back into the PR game with my feet first - granted there is always the pesky matter of the Day Job, but still - in time in time.

Con: Not sure where things are going with the PR stuff. Have not found many of the PR stuff in Orlando very umm.. inspiring.
Upgrade: Renewed the motto that I will not promote or endorse anything I don't firmly believe in. Will refuse to sell myself out for a "paying" client when the product is not what I feel it could be. So, with that, JZ finished his album, renewed contacts with the Philly crew sprang a new client which Reese & I both love and, while we might have to undergo a firm name change, this time we're going to do it right. Thankfully the legal background is a plus.

So, what I am afraid of - clearly and plainly - SUCCESS. I have this nagging thing called Self Doubt and you know, I really need to let that go. I know I'm a great entertainment publicist, have fabulous mentors that have always been there for me to cheer me on and I really am great at what I do. Now, I need to start valuing that and start acting like a big girl, ya know? Not to mention, how long am I going to have to keep hitting the "ceiling" until I really get the courage and drive to do what I love (and get paid for it).

What would you do if you weren't afraid?

Labels: Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 12:38 PM :: 1 comments

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Tuesday, June 12, 2007

30 Things On The List...

Thanks to NYKat, I've got a bit of inspiration to list 30 things on my "To Do List" for this Summer/Early fall (in no particular order)

Finish unpacking all the boxes of CDs (how many years of promos do I have, eeks).

Drop 2 dress sizes.

Re-organize my work station and set up my home office. (My Couch doesn't count - while comfy - its not very "work conducive").

Finally purchase that damn Black "Crack"berry.

List some of the "clutter" on eBay.

Go through the closet and get rid of anything I don't adore, love or will wear again. No what ifs this time.

Same for the shoes.

Take a trip to the Jersey Shore.

Have an authentic Philly Cheesesteak (Jim's or Genos... hmmmm..) and do a little South Street shopping!

Take a trip up to Mass/Ct. to visit my grandmom, father, aunt & friends.

Go to the family cottage for a day or so when I'm up north.

Get Shadow to the Vet and to the groomer (she looks like a little lion).

Possibly pick up that DVR Recorder to transfer all the tapes.

Organize the August "Get together" for the Philly Crew.

Learn how to make decent, stress DECENT, coffee.

See Oceans 13 while it is IN the theaters (No H. issues will keep me away from seein' the Clooney).

Start an aggressive saving plan for February's festivities and Italy.

Pay down 3 credit cards.

Open up a ROTH

Finally finish reading my PF books from Suze Orman, Glinda Bridgeworth & Jean Chatzky. Plus - finish Nice Girl Don't Get Rich & Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office.

Make a decision on where to go in my career path.

Update my resume.

Finish decorating the bathroom, bedroom & living room.

Whittle down the "chaos" in the laundry room.

Find that perfect comfy chair for the Living Room.

Work on expanding the PR side of things.

GET THE DAMN RENTER'S INSURANCE

Take a couple cooking classes.

Get to really know Altamonte - get out more and explore my new city.

Host a fabulous dinner party (or two).

**Update: Looks like the PR end of things heated up in just a couple days from drafting this originally - thanks to Reese, there is one heck of a find on the horizon. That gal's got a golden ear, let me tell ya! And my coffee last weekend didn't totally suck. Yay moi! Finally, I succumbed and picked up the DVD Recorder - and got a deal on it - for once I turned away Cash Back for an even lower price in store! So would that leave 27.5 things to do?

Labels: Goals, Random Mess, To Do

Posted by Lys :: 11:21 PM :: 2 comments

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Thursday, June 07, 2007

Baby Steps.. Baby Steps...

Well, one more step towards my shoe goal has started today. I signed up for SparkPeople.com. While I was going to go the Weight Watchers route to track my calories, online, etc., money wise, that could go to the CL Shoe Fund. Every penny counts. However, part of my goal was to get healthier and drop a size (or two, or three - hey I've woken up too many times to that infomercial of Greer Childers hawking Shapely Secrets, okay? )... I need to hold myself accountable, and how can I see the progress if I don't have the proper information, right?

I remembered that my friend Malika endorses SparkPeople. She's raved about them for some time and so I signed up. And, its inspiring. Even though I went out to lunch today with SL, I tracked the foods I ate and still hit calorie count (and that's WITH the Starbucks). I've also made the switch from my normal "Iced Venti Nonfat Caramel Macchiato" to a "Iced Nonfat Hazelnut Latte". And, considering that over the span of the entire week I've had a total of 2 Starbucks runs - that's progress (with more change in the CL Shoe Fund!)

It's baby steps, people - baby steps.

Labels: Diet-Fitness, Goals, Random Mess

Posted by Lys :: 10:26 PM :: 3 comments

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