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Thursday, December 31, 2009

Happy New Year...

May 2010 bring you all much love, good health, prosperity and in the words of this fashionista - new Choos!

HappyNewYear-Champagne-CinS

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Posted by Lys :: 11:24 PM :: 1 comments

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Sunday, November 29, 2009

Holiday Online Shopping - Getting More Bang For The Buck...

I'm one of those gals who avoids much of the holiday chaos- namely Black Friday and the chaotic mall shoppers.  Why should I feed the frenzy when I can maximize my dollar with online sales, shopping and cash back, right?

Well, here's the refresher course for y'all along with some new finds and for the new readers - welcome, bookmark and enjoy.

First of all, here are the sites to sign up with - g'head, it should open in a new window so I'll wait for ya.

Cash Back:

Coupon Sites

Now that you are all signed up and bookmarked, here's how this works.  First thing you need to understand is that most cash back will be available 60-90 days after the purchase - to allow for returns, etc.  So, let's say you are doing your holiday shopping - well, in March, you should be getting some extra green in your wallet - just in time for St. Patty's Day and everyone is a winner.

Start off with going to EVReward to see who offers the MOST cash back - that's vital.  If you know where you are going to shop, then why not get the best deal out there, right? 

I often know the item I'm looking for - like, let's say a great pair of Elizabeth & James shoes from ShopBop.  I head to EVReward to see who's giving the most cash back on ShopBop which is, in this case, Cashbaq with 7% cash back on my purchase.  So, let's say I buy the boots I've been coveting - which are $276.  7% cash back of that will mean that come March, $19.32 will be my cash back reward.  To maximize my cash back dollar, I will also make note of any coupon codes for ShopBop through RetailMeNot.com or any of the other coupon sites that have done great by me in the past. Works like a charm every. single. time.  Often you can find coupons for free shipping, etc. especially with the retailers wanting to make this holiday season their best one ever.

Here's another thing - my bff, Meowmix, often shops online via eBay.   Did you know you can get cash back for any eBay shopping?   Big Crumbs offers up to 36% cash back.  Bing! offers 10% cash back while Ebates offers 2%.  You see where I'm going with this. 

Now, for those of you buying those big ticket items from, let's say BestBuy - here's my suggestion - buy online through Bing! with 5% cash back, select the "Pick Up In Store" option and you don't even have to worry about the shipping.  Most times, it's ready in an hour or so and you don't have to deal with all the craziness.  This helps especially when you are looking for that TV, Video Game System or other high ticket item and you don't want any shipping drama but still want the maximum cash back.

Basically - most of the stores you shop online are on the cash back wagon and why shouldn't you be too? 

Now, the disclaimers - keep track of your purchases and receipt emails to make sure that you get credit for everything.  Most of the cash back companies are great with tracking, but some purchase can fall through the cracks.  Just send their customer service an email after a week or so and they'll jump right on it.  Secondly, yes there are referral links which means that both you and I are getting a Win/Win as they put a little something in your cash back stocking.

I am happy to say that after 3 years of living the cash back mantra, I can never go back to online shopping the old way.  I always make sure that I've maximized everything through cash back and coupon codes and couldn't be happier.  Heck, I've even gotten cash back for my cable installation - who the heck knew you could do that.  

So, while the holiday brings out the crazy in shopping, know that you can enjoy CyberMonday behind the computer with your coffee in one hand and the mouse in the other as you click your way to cash back happiness.  And, if you have any questions, know that I'm only an email away to help.

Happy Shopping!

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Posted by Lys :: 11:41 PM :: 1 comments

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Saturday, November 14, 2009

So Late In Posting This....

I know, I know - I'm bad.  Anywhoo - here is a pic of Wiggy in his Halloween costume.  He's not one for clothes, dressing up nada - he ripped off the fireman costume the minute I tried to put it on him and as for him being a medium - NEVER.  He's a large - couldn't keep anything on him.  He consented and wore the pirate hat around the house to answer the door and was far from happy until the delivery guy told him how freakin' adorable he was.  Never saw that dog prance until then.

He must have caught the vain-virus from Ms. Shadow... Go figure.

DSCF0925

OOPS - let me try again...

 

Wiggy-Halloween

RAWRRRRRR - Iz Pirate!

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Posted by Lys :: 11:25 PM :: 4 comments

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Thursday, January 01, 2009

Happy 2009 To Y'all...

I hope that 2009 brings you all much happiness, prosperity, love and peace. Remember, the year is what YOU make of it - so if you snooze, you lose.

I'm approaching 2009 with a sense of empowerment, even in the small things. For example, today was a lazy day - just the pug, the kitten and I chillin' out. The kitten under the bed, the pug and I either on the bed or on the couch - no growling or hissing at all - with the occasional glimpse of Shadow and Wiggs staring each other down. All is quiet and a great way to start off 2009.

Well that was until I went to the car and, staring me down from the backseat was one of those effin' Palmettos - or Mr. Slimy as he will forever be known as. Well, he scooted into the trunk and I couldn't get him quick enough. Boy was I livid. So, I grabbed the "Car Raid", went to the trunk and sprayed it down. Granted, yes, I know - I need to clean out the trunk and will this week but damn.

So now my trunk has that "Raid Fresh" scent and, as I started to back out of the car to head to get my ice coffee, I could have sworn I felt something on my back. It's ON now - death to Mr. Slimys!!! I put that car in park with the thought that obviously the Man upstairs wants me to continue my chill out day and headed upstairs minus Ice Coffee. I did, however, make a promise to myself that 2009 will be a Mr. Slimy free year. It's war, people, and I am positive that the new neighbor brought a bunch with them with their forever leaving loose trash outside their door. (Shadow gutted another one that apparently got under the door and left him as either a present for me or a treat for Wiggs - haven't decided which yet.)

Don't even get me started on that random group of people that moved into the apartment across the hall. That's fodder for another day - just think, Larry the Cable Guy meets Snoop Dogg meets Beth from Dog The Bounty Hunter.

Anyways - I wish you all the best for 2009 and I'm looking forward to what this year will bring, armed with a can of Raid, of course.

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Posted by Lys :: 6:07 PM :: 5 comments

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Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Happy Holidays and All That Jazz...

While I sit here watchin' Shadow try to take down the holiday tree as my father is putting it up, I wanted to take a minute and wish you all a very joyous holiday season. Also, I'm sending thoughts for much warmer weather up Michele, SSG, Predo & Kimmy's way as I enjoy a very toasty holiday.

This time next year, we'll have a new addition to the Lys' family as Mr. Wiggles will be getting his doggy wish and moving in the day after Christmas.
May you enjoy this holiday with your family and friends and blogging will resume on Friday!
Happy Holidays, Everyone!

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Posted by Lys :: 9:04 PM :: 5 comments

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Friday, December 12, 2008

The Quest...

So, as you can see, I decided to do a little holiday decorating around this joint - in the hopes that will help me get a bit more holiday spirit-y.

Another tip to get a gal in the Holiday spirit is some holiday tunes...

One that always used to work was this track.





Yeah, it ain't workin' - that tree is still in the box. No eggnog is made. I'm growlin' at the music video. I'm Scroogy McScrooge, my friends. Basically I have alot to do this weekend and the tree will be the culmination of the efforts of what I'm about to disclose...

On board, along with the Secret Santa shoppin', the holiday bru-ha-ha, planning for Philly, soiree planning, etc., yours truly needs to "puppy proof" the apartment. Basically, I need to remove shoes and put them back in their boxes. Move low things high. Move Shadow's toys to a spot that she approves of. Why you ask - because this little gorgeous munchkin is looking for a forever home and Shadow and I would love to have "Mr. Wiggles" home with us.





Yes, seriously - that's his name. However he's cuter than ANY Mr. Wiggles I've ever seen.

Long story short - Shadow and I were at Petco last weekend and she was having her annual portrait with Santa Claus. Well, that Saturday, they happened to have the Central Florida Pug Rescue there and a bunch of little pugs were running around having a ball. Shadow, who is normally a big fraidy cat with dogs and is not a fan, met a little pug who she decided "wasn't so bad" and she was smitten. However, when she saw a gold lab type dog head over to her like a idiot because Shadow was sittin' with Santa chillin, I thought that was the end. In a normal world, she'd freak the hell out, hiss, growl and just start swingin'. However, Shaddy was not havin' that mess, withering him with a look that can only be described as "Bitch puleaze! You can wait yo' damn turn" and the dog got a cookie while Santa kept cuddling with Shadow. I couldn't figure out what was up with her calm demeanor, but it dawned on me - she liked the dogs - namely the pugs. Plus, knowing her attitude, she probably figured that the pugs around her would back her up since they were all the same size. Solidarity in numbers, right?

However, we can't have a dog here, I reasoned. I just couldn't get that pug that Shaddy was all BFF with out of my head. They were so great, so cute, so lovable and sassy. So I called the apartment complex and said "We can't have more than one pet, right?" Well, surprise surprise - we can. And not only can we, but it can be a dog and a cat.

I kept thinking "Am I really ready for a dog - it's a lifestyle change!" Well, your heart doesn't lie and the one thing that really stuck with me was "Yes!" I've had dogs before growing up and know they take much more work than a cat. I pestered Lesli with emails (because y'all know she's got the pug thing on lock with Noodles). I worked out my budgets. I did my research on the breed. I read. I picked Meowmix's brain because she rescues rottweilers and talked to her about the process and what the complications could be.

Throughout all of the above, I knew a pug was the right fit for Shadow and I. She's 10 years old, queen of her household, would love a friend that isn't another cat or kitten and we've got the room. So, I went to the website and the MINUTE I saw Mr. Wiggles' on there, I knew. Well, Central Florida Pug Rescue is phenomenal and I'm in the "Application" stage so keep your fingers crossed, please.

But seriously, look at that face - isn't he adorable?




So I'll keep you updated on my journey of adopting a pug. Also, if you care to donate to this amazing cause, you can donate right on their site.

[Photos courtesy of Central Florida Pug Rescue]

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Posted by Lys :: 10:31 PM :: 10 comments

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Friday, December 05, 2008

Holiday Mail Call, Round Two...

Tis that time o' year, my friends... and since I faced my Post Office Box phobia once, I can surely do it twice..

Yup - you guessed it - Holiday Cards!

If you want a little holiday cheer and want to exchange holiday cards*, send your gal an email at justanothagal [at] gmail [dot] com with your address and intel** and you'll get a bit of holiday cheer in the mailbox. I'd send cocktails but you know with all those bans and whatnot, that can't be done. Just know that when it comes time to break out the holiday egg nog, just add an extra shot for you know who.

Happy Holidays!

*More legal mumbo jumbo: I can't guarantee that said cards may be truly politically correct. If you don't like Christmas (and I don't find a totally PC, non offensive card), please don't shoot me. Don't worry - no super religious cards. Just think of the blog and you already know my personality.

** Even MORE legal mumbo jumbo. Said addresses, names and information sent to the above email address shall be kept confidential and not released to any third party (in other words - I ain't gonna give anyone's information out to anyone :) Your gal has your back!)

[Photo courtesy of iStockPhoto.com]

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Posted by Lys :: 6:15 PM :: 2 comments

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Tuesday, December 02, 2008

Cash Back: A Refresher Course For The Holidays..

Well, the holidays are upon us and I've been requested to give a little refresher course in all things cash back and coupons to help you get a little extra something in your stockings.

As y'all know, I do most of my shopping online. I detest the malls during the holidays and, for those that know me, that's tough to hear. I have no patience in bad customer service, annoying customers or crowds. I'd rather mill about enjoying the sights and sounds rather than worry about that "perfect" gift. SO - without further adieu - this is how your gal shops.

First of all, I have to have a game plan. For example, let's use my mother (sorry Mom and NO this is not your Xmas gift - just an example!)

Over Thanksgiving, she disclosed to me that she has been using bargain spices from Big Lots! Now, should I decide to cure her of this bad habit (because I'm a foodie snob), I know I'd need to replenish her spice cabinet with spices from one of my favorite culinary stores, Dean & Deluca. My theory is if the Barefoot Contessa uses it, then the product HAS to be top notch. Good vanilla and all!

First step: Research to see if there are any coupons on RetailMeNot.com, CouponCabin.com or UltimateCoupons.com . If there are, make note of the codes and maximize them for the ultimate savings.

Second Step: Research to see who has the highest cash back through EVRewards.com (sometimes you get good coupons on here as well).

Third Step: Select your cash back portal to use. I only use four sites: Fat Wallet, Ebates, Mr. Rebates or CashBaq . There are others, but I've had the best luck with those four and, personally, I use Mr. Rebates and Ebates the most.

Fourth Step:Find the item you are looking for, purchase and viola! You will get cash back, ultimate savings and a nice little somethin' somethin' for you in March because it takes about 90 days for the available funds to be posted.

So to recap: the Cash Back sites to bookmark/sign up at are:
Happy Shopping!

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Posted by Lys :: 12:12 PM :: 9 comments

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Saturday, November 29, 2008

Realizations of a Traveling Wench...

Yes, I've returned to all things sunshine state from the arctic tundra known as Western Mass. Had an enjoyable holiday with family and friends, put some ghosts to rest and finally snipped the cord on one pesky problem that will be no more.

All in all, a success with no unpleasant aftertaste. 'Sall good.

However, the travel itself really made for excellent blog fodder. Let me explain.

First of all - most effective birth control: Traveling with kids to or from Orlando. On the trip down, I was surrounded by 10 children. 2 in front of me, two in back of my seat (kicking no less), 2 children with their father to the side of me and 4 more scattered throughout the cabin. They were all traveling together and can I say, oh my holy hell. The parents had NO control of their Jon&Kate+10 brood and I was ready for a Xanax/Baileys cocktail by flight end. They would run up and down the aisles, sit on the edge of my seat, scream, shout, you name it. Ugh!

On my return flight back, I had one woman who would NOT discipline her child at all, indulged his massive tantrums (as did the child's father) and guess who sat in front of me - yup, you guessed it, Momma Bear and the mean Bearcub. Well Bearcub decided that he was going to be a brat ON the flight, refusing to sit (he was around 3/4), refusing to behave, constantly pushing the buttons, blasting the DVD that he would want changed constantly and the mother would calmly go "Now honey, you know you can't do that" with a giggle. By flight's end, I was ready to say "Listen, my parents would have WHUPPED me if I misbehaved like that. Get it together!" but I behaved. I mean-mugged the kid tho every time he tried to stare me down. Homey don't play that mess. You can't behave, I'll tell you to sit down before the pilot knocks you off the seat. The stewardess even hit her patience level when the mother refused to put a seat belt on the child for landing. Ugh! Well, I darted past them to get to baggage claim, thanking the heavens that I bit my tongue and didn't blast her (or Bearcub). I behaved. Well, until Momma Bear and Bearcub got on my elevator to the parking garage. Dontcha know Bearcub is throwing yet another tantrum?!?!? I looked at him, smiled at her and then looked at him again and said "Wow, kiddo - you've had a tough flight, haven't ya?" The kid shushed, looked at me strangely and knew I meant business. I had "that tone", the one that even my nephews know - "Don't mess with Auntie Lys, she'll say somethin'" The woman told me that she didn't know if she could fly to St. Thomas with the child the way he was acting up - my response "Perhaps you might want to pack some Xanax - that might help" as I walked off the elevator. Mean, kinda but man my last nerve was shot. I will say this, that child behaved PERFECTLY on the way to the car - not a peep out of his bratty behind. Maybe she saw that while you don't have to yell at the child, you also don't let the child run you. You are the adult, the child is the child. Don't get it twisted.

Secondly - Delta - BIG FAIL. We're breaking up. I don't care if you entice me with your "oooohhh - Lys you USED to fly me. I promise we'll be good" crap. I call bullshit. Straight up - bullshit. AirTran has spoiled me for any other airline. On AirTran, I can upgrade to the business class with the comfy seats and overhead bins that FIT my carry on suitcase with no problem. Delta - don't offer me an upgrade and then go "Well, you're "T" class, so no upgrade for you!". I had the $$$ at alert and you don't want this bill? Fine then - bite me. Next, the fact that your overhead bins do NOT fit my luggage and they get progressively smaller as you head back down the plane - fail. I had to bribe a stewardess (or reward) with a Starbucks card if she could get that in the overhead bin (which she did and she did, indeed, get her Starbucks card!). Finally, your drivers and their lead foot - while sometimes that's good, tell them to learn how to pump the breaks - ugh! I miss AirTran.

Bradley is NOT my favorite airport but I do appreciate the fact that they have a Dunkin' Donuts on the concourse. (Philly Int'l - take note please. Thx!) However, I wish I saw that BEFORE I bought a daggone diet coke for the plane. Oh well.

Speaking of ice coffee, when I arrived, my dad and I went out to Friendlys to grab a late dinner. Now, let me preface this with a note that not only do I like Friendlys, but I worked there for TWO years. I was a waitress and worked my way to shift manager and was damn good too. So, when our waitress, Yvette, came over to get our drink order, she told me that they don't have Ice coffee. I looked up from the menu, looked at Yvette and said: "Do you have ice?" and she responded "Yes." I then inquired "Do you have coffee?" and she quizzically said "Yes?" and then I said "Well then, I'll have an ice coffee". I said it calmly, not bitchy at all and she got all flustered. I started to feel bad but c'mon, pour the coffee over ice. The glasses are plastic y'all and it's not rocket science. Plus, back in the day, I made it all the time for customers. Think out of the box is my motto. My father told me I probably made her want to turn in her apron with how I deadpanned it. I did, however, get my ice coffee and she got a nice tip.

I went to scope out the Western Mass shopping as well and realized that due to the offerings of all things Philly, Orlando and online, I'm spoiled for any other shopping. I bought nada. I would see things and go "eeehhh - well, I could get that at home" or "eeehhh - that's IT???" It was hard to believe that I used to walk into that mall wide eyed let alone work there. Yes, I'm still a brat. However, I did learn one thing - if the mall also has a Target in it - RUN. People were drivin' those Target carts around the entire MALL and didn't just use it IN Target.

Also noteable was how I ran into some people in my old town and you know what -they haven't changed ONE iota. From living with their parents to acting the same old b.s. ways, I went "Huh??" Then again, that's their issues. It was kinda disturbing though. Will definitely be in the "Why not to attend my 20th reunion" column of Pros & Cons.

There were a ton of memories that flooded back to me, some funny and some sad. There were names I hadn't thought of in forever, but as I drove past their houses, I would go "ohhh yeah - so and so lived there". My heart broke as I drove past my old haunt, Annies, which is no more. I also took a ride past the house I shared with Mark and I really had to pat myself on the back at how, indeed, I am moving upward and onward.

All in all, good trip - however I'm ready to get to channelling my inner holiday wench and get to decorating around this joint, well, after I pop some Nyquil because, you guessed it - damn germy kids got me sick.

Oh well - how was your holiday?

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Posted by Lys :: 9:36 PM :: 6 comments

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Friday, November 28, 2008

Tis Hard Times, My Friends...

Everyone is falling on hard times and, even the City of Orlando appears to be feeling the wallet pinch (or, perhaps, did Buddy cut the holiday budget?)

See what we encountered Wednesday on the daily 'Bucks run - The Charlie Brown Christmas Tree. Last year, the City Hall Tree was ablaze with lights, ornaments and more on a giant tree. This year's tree is scrawnier and sparsely decorated.

I guess it really is tough times ahead!


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Posted by Lys :: 8:36 AM :: 2 comments

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Tuesday, January 01, 2008

2008 Will Be *A* Year...

I'm watching the Dick Clark special and my heart goes out to Dick Clark. He's worked so hard to recover from this stroke. The man is an icon. Ryan Seacrest is definitely gearing up to be the new "Dick Clark". The talent - outside of Fergie, I'm pretty much fast forwarding through Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, Sean Kingston and, my *cough* favorite *cough cough* Akon. Also, to debunk a myth - it's not all "live". The Hollywood segments are often pre-taped and the NY segments are live (or as live as they can be).

I've done a lot of reflecting today and I've come to the determination that 2008 will have much in store, not only for myself, my friends and family but ALL of you as well. To quote one of my friends "8 is a sign of new beginnings" And 2008 shall bring many new beginnings.

Happy New Year everyone!

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Posted by Lys :: 12:28 AM :: 2 comments

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Friday, December 28, 2007

Under The Tree...

There was a plethora of goodies under the tree this year, and, as my brain is actually hurting from having to think during this @*@*#*@ week of work, I figured I'd play pictionary and show you some of the goodies that were unwrapped during the holiday...

I've recently developed a love for copper. My Mixer and Blender are copper. The toaster I want is copper. The pots I fondle in Williams Sonoma are also copper. The platters that I am dying to pick up at Crate and Barrel are trimmed in copper. Copper looks good against the red and brown scheme in my kitchen. It also looks good with the bronze and teal scheme throughout the house. So, I can deal with that.

So, without further ado, please meet the new additions to my household.

The New Copper Wine Fridge...



I'm still learning about wine. As I told Reese yesterday, if it was up to me, I get all confused when it comes to buying wines. I buy brands I know but if I'm stuck in a huge wine version of Costco *cough* Total Wine *cough* I get all anxious and next thing you know I'll wind up purchasing Manachevitz or something. Hopefully the wine fridge will start me on my path of knowing which wine is which. And yes, I know - I'm somewhat tacky. I prefer my red chilled, thankyouverymush!

The new Krups Coffee/Espresso Machine.


I still can't make coffee and I've ruined two stovetop espresso makers (I keep sticking them in the dishwasher. Oops!) However, my goal for 2008 is to make non-swill coffee. It's a start, right.

This gorgeous steel Hanging Pot Rack from Southern Living At Home.


I've been lusting after this for 2 catalogs already and adore it. Well, it was under the tree and now I just need to brave Home Depot to get a stud finder and hang this puppy up.

And to hang on the Pot Rack... my Ruffoni Polenta Pot.


I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Ruffoni pots over at Williams Sonoma. It's all about the acorn detailing for me. It's unusual and striking in my opinion. Outside of my Le Creuset, this is my other "coveted Must Have Will Give Up Choos" item. However, some little elf at WS swiped my spoon that goes with. So after a little chat with the manager who realized her staff's oops , a new spoon is waiting for me this afternoon. Polenta anyone?

I also received some lovely goodies from Joel Osteen, gorgeous handcrafted jewelry, gift cards to 'Bucks and Williams Sonoma, ornaments and books that I wanted. Now add to that my presents from me to me such as my lovely Tastebook Cookbook (which arrived before Christmas - surprisingly. LOVE that company), some more ornaments for next year (Sale baybeee...), clothes and the new book from Colin Cowie (bought with a 40% off coupon - hello!), your gal is VERY very pleased.

Twas a blessed holiday, indeed.

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Posted by Lys :: 1:46 PM :: 5 comments

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Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Newsflash....

I'm taking the day after Christmas off. Yes, you read that right. Yours truly will NOT be at the 9to5 and basically it will take an act of God for me to work from home. I've got a day and a half to use up before 12/31 and I rarely take time off.

My father is flying back up to the cold north and I'm going to be rearranging my kitchen to allow for the new goodies that were left under the tree, beside the tree, in front of the tree. It was a very copper and kitchen oriented Christmas for your gal! (And the main thing I wanted was a new back tire - go figure *LOL* I was so practical this holiday.)

Hope you had a wonderful holiday... What did Santa leave under YOUR tree, I wonder. Do tell. Do tell.

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Posted by Lys :: 12:40 AM :: 2 comments

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Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Merry Christmas!!

Merry Christmas everyone!!! Enjoy your holiday season and may 2008 bring you all everything that you desire - health, joy, prosperity and, in true Lys fashion - choos!!

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Posted by Lys :: 5:20 PM :: 2 comments

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Monday, December 24, 2007

Somehow It Doesn't Feel Like Christmas Eve...


It's Monday, and I really am NOT feelin' Christmasy.

Perhaps it was my Martha Stewart Meets Larry Mo & Curly debacle yesterday (more on that later);

Perhaps it was the nasty, mean, holiday cranky shopping bunch (and THAT WASN'T ME! I'm innocent - swear!);

Perhaps it was just the Grinch in me resurfacing when I got some pretty annoying news - but eeh - whatever. I'm over it. Other people, notsomuch.

Perhaps it was the woman who was wrapping a gift for for me going into IN DEPTH detail about her dog's c-section and how much it cost her, how her dog almost lost her intestine, how she only had ONE puppy at the cost of $900 and that's why her kids will have a light Christmas. (TMI TMI TMI);

Perhaps its just the whole bah-humbug mentality I've been feeling lately;

Perhaps its because I, along with many of my buddies, have to work today;

Perhaps its because I just really am watching the shopping and my bank account before it goes into cardiac arrest.

All in all - still - not feelin' Christmasy.

My dad and I will have our annual tradition of shopping on Christmas Eve. As a child, I always remember going to the mall as he would take me out to shop for my mother and the tradition of shopping on Christmas Eve stuck. Nowadays, I still go shopping with him, however the bulk of my shopping is done online and with cash back. This year, thanks to the student loan monster, my shopping had to be scaled back and I had to pay off a few things first. It's all good tho.

So, I'm sure I'll be more in the holiday spirit later but for now - blah!!!!!!

Signed,
~The Grinch of Altamonte Springs...

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Posted by Lys :: 12:56 PM :: 1 comments

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Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Meet The New Additions...

There's a new addition to the household.

To explain, the other night I was doing a bit of shopping for the office Secret Santa (let's NOT go there shall we?) Don't get me wrong. I'm thankful that the one who has me is spoiling me to no end. I didn't get a chance to choose MY giftee which sucks because it was during Project Hell and, ummm, yeah. Basically, I got the last of the bunch and it's like last year all over again, but with a different person. Oh well. Like my friend said, it's a lesson that I must learn. I'll survive.


So I'm trotting through the Altamonte Mall doing a little shopping and what do I see in the BAKERS window... The BUDGET version of my Chanel-esque shoes. The Abbey. Yes, they are a camel and black version, but I don't care. They don't look super hookah ish like the Guess version and the BCBG version in Burgundy that I coveted is now sold out. (And I'm NOT Paying $110 bux for a pair of BCBG shoes that will hurt worse than the Kors shoes I have in the closet already). I'd rather bind my feet and walk on my toes.

Even better, these shoes are comfy, look scrumptious and I'm not tripping over my damn self. AND they were on sale at 25% off. LOVE LOVE LOVE! I got them for about $49. Much better than the $695 Neimans price for the Chanels, right?

My closet needs to make room and a shoe inventory needs to be taken. Not to mention that a trip to IKEA is in order for my shoe boxes. Now that would be a great way to start off the new year with a perfectly organized (or quasi perfect) closet.

A gal can dream.

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Posted by Lys :: 7:37 PM :: 0 comments

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Sunday, December 16, 2007

Twas The Week Before Christmas...




And all throughout the home
The activity level was high as I start to roam.

Ornament boxes are strewn among wrapping paper and bows.
How to make sense of this mess, no one knows.

The stockings were hung on the entertainment center mantle with care.
The garland strung behind them, balancing precariously on air.

The tree skirt is careful laid around the base of the tree,
However all is not peaceful, at least not for me.

You see, the evil cat is waiting under the tree
All set to pounce on the next thing she sees.
A foot -
A wire -
A loose or sparkly ornament in her path.
All is not safe from the grey one's wrath.


And bite she shall until blood is had
Because really, revenge is her objective and it's better to be bad.


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Posted by Lys :: 9:58 PM :: 3 comments

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Are You KIDDING ME???

I woke up this morning to the sound of raging HAIL against my windows - HAIL. I live in FLORIDA. We're not supposed to get HAIL!

Today Shadow and I have to brave the cold (well it's cold by Central Florida's standards, 'k), hail and crappy weather to go see Santa Claws at PetSmart for her annual torture photo for my father. The Altamonte Mall Santa just wasn't the right one. Too many dogs, a 2 hour wait and I told Shaddy, it was Santa's 4th cousin twice removed. She can wait for the real thing. Which, of course, she was fine with because there was too many big dogs everywhere. Shadow detests big dogs. I'm also convinced that either during her fall at the airport she knocked her head or she was switched at birth because she does not like malls. How can my cat NOT like the mall? Doesn't make sense.

So pray for me please because she's gonna be howling the whole way to PetSmart and, after torture photo, she's going to want to buy every cat toy she can get her paws on (she rubs up against them marking her territory) and then she's going to attempt to face off against the parrot for her Sunday dinner. My money is on the parrot winning that fight.

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Posted by Lys :: 10:55 AM :: 2 comments

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Friday, December 14, 2007

Seriously, I Don't KNOW What I Want...

I'm of NO use today... let me preface that with I had ONE job to do - ONE - and that was to tell my boss what I wanted for Christmas. Well, outside of telling her that all I wanted was my brain back, in all actuality - I dunno. I'm horrible like that.

See, I rarely tell my friends, family and co-workers what I want because when I want something, I normally just buy it myself. I have the patience of a gnat. Plus, this is the first year I really feel like I have everything I want or need (outside of Loubous or a few other high end items but I want to, yes, buy those myself). My family is fine, my health is good, my bills are paid, I have a roof over my head, my car works well, my friends are great. I'm grateful. I'm content. I'm good. So, really I don't know what to put on that wishlist.

  • Do I need clothes, nope. Do I want clothes - eeh - depends. I'm pretty set for this season.

  • Do I need shoes? You are kidding, right - me? C'mon - Imelda Marcos ain't got nothin' on this gal (I keeed I keeed)

  • Do I need something for the house? Curtains but I need to pick those out myself. Anything else, I'm pretty picky.

  • Do I need anything for the kitchen? Need is a relative term. Want, yes. Need, no. Just don't ask me to specify. My brain can't handle that overload.

  • Do I need anything from, oh lets say, Gucci? Well, now that you ask... (again, I keeed, I keeed).

But I got caught up with a couple other things today with helping out some people here, lunch with a buddy and then I decided to log into my MSN.com and there, right on the front page, courtesy of one Ms. Bobbi Thomas, was a listing of hot gifts for the holidays and - what do I do - order them my damn self. My gifts to me from me. See - that's how I roll.

I don't have patience. I don't ever want to tell someone "I want this, this or that" because I feel greedy. Seriously, I do. I prefer people give from the heart and put thought into things. I mean, that's what I try to do.

My friends and family know me well enough by now to know my haunts. Yeah, people say gift cards are cheesy, but you know what - if someone gets me a gift card to, lets say, Sur La Table or Williams Sonoma, hell - I say "YIPPEE!" because that person knows me well enough to know that I haunt those places. Plus, knowing my picky nature, I get to choose what I might want, need or feel inspired by. I *heart* that. Now, don't get me wrong - if the same person sees my knife set and notices I don't have a Global Cheese Knife or a Electric Sharpener - I'm all over that too. That's paying attention. Or if they see me fondle the Ruffoni Hammered Copper Pots at Williams Sonoma, they know I'll adore it.

But if someone gets me a gift card to, let's say, Bealls or Kohl's, then that person doesn't know my inner shopping demon. If they find a gift IN Kohl's that they think is totally me - then that's perfect. But if they get me anything Rachel Ray branded (outside of one of her NON ORANGY POTS!) or some Christina (Spanish Talk Show host) flatware, I'm curious. I'm thankful but also aware that they don't know what I really like or prefer. Don't get me wrong. I do appreciate the thought and sentiment tho and I'm far from nasty about it. Again, I don't want to come off spoiled, just I am what I am. Does that make sense?

JZ once got me this cute little frame that, to this day, sits on my desk and I get compliments galore. One of the more, shall we say, rude people I know told me "Do you know that was only $X.XX at [whatever store]". "So what? And, your point?" is what I wanted to say to her but I just dismissed it. What I wanted to say was that JZ KNOWS I love photos and put some thought into the gift. I could care less the cost, coupons, or even if it was a re-gift. That doesn't matter. He knew it would be something I would like.

H. and his family once made me a huge Christmas card and they all signed it with messages, etc. in it. I still have that card to this day. It always makes me smile. They put time and love into it. That speaks volumes.

Reese made me a huge comfy blanket that I love to snuggle in (when Shadow doesn't try to pilfer it to her hiding spot). She took an amazing amount of time to make that and it just is so tailored for me. I adore it.

So, again, to reiterate the above - it's not the cost - it's really about the thought put into something that means alot to me. I mean, hey - if Reese can kidnap the Clooney and send him to my house this year, I'd be great with that too (ahem - hint hint. Again, I keeeed, I keeeed).

So now that I'm done waxing poetic on my theory of gifts (and NO I haven't done my wishlist yet - will do over the weekend *LOL*), you've got to see these lovely stockings from HoHoHeel that I covet which Ms. Bobbi pointed out are adorable. My gal Maria calls them hookah stockings, I just say "Have you SEEN the height of my heels - Hello!"




I also wound up customizing a cookbook over at TasteBook.com When I'm finished adding all of my favorite recipes to it. Well, a good portion of them because I MUST have my chicken soup recipe in it (well Real Simple's), my favorite Cable Car Martini recipe and this perfect potato recipe from Jacques Pepin. When I get the book in, I will take pics. Trust me you will love it - it screams me.

So - I'm sure I'll post over the weekend (with tree photos, promise), but enjoy yourselves and be safe out there! I'll just be having a Cable Car martini and think of y'all :)

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Posted by Lys :: 6:16 PM :: 4 comments

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Saturday, December 08, 2007

Channeling One's Inner Martha...

The holidays are really driving me batty this year. I feel like I have too many people to buy for and not enough fundage to do so. Between friends, family and co-workers, it's enough to make my head spin.

So today it hit me. I've decided to channel my inner Martha Stewart and, while watching the Food Network and leafing through some magazines, I stumbled upon a great idea in this month's issue of Cooking Light. Homemade Spice Rubs. Erin Cooks! also had some great cookie recipes and Sarah has a fast and fabulous truffle recipe. Plus, Giada de Laurentiis had some good ideas during her holiday entertainment episode today. Feeling inspired, I think it's time to give all the goodies I bought at Sur la Table a workout.



Starting tomorrow, I'm going to start beginning the process of making spice rubs, various cookies and other lovely items in lieu of breaking the bank for holiday shopping. After all, I still have the February trip to worry about and I need to start saving like a mad woman. And, if I have time, I will brave all that is Michaels and pick up some lovely ribbon, favor bags, tins for the spice rub and other goodies to package up the treats. And if I really want to make it festive, I might try to make myself a cable car martini while I'm impersonating a culinary diva.

Let's just hope I don't mix up the sugar and the salt... That would not be chic!

UPDATE:

Clearly I was too excited by the Kooba bag where I decided to post THAT link in place of the spice rub link. So sorry. The recipe for the spice rub is as follows:

Zesty Spice Rub*

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons paprika
3 tablespoons cumin
1 tablespoon coriander
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon salt

Yield: 1 cup

*Recipe courtesy of Cooking Light, December 2007

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Posted by Lys :: 10:11 PM :: 2 comments

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