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Wednesday, November 04, 2009

First of all, can I tell you how red in the face I am - seriously I'm livid.  It's my birthday for cryin' out loud and I shouldn't have to wage war AGAIN with Barnes & Noble's inept customer service center for their idiocy.

Some background.  I've been a loyal B&N customer for YEARS.  I've held the membership faithfully.  I buy a TON of books, DVDs, etc.  I often enjoy the website's interviews, etc. and make a point to buy all my magazines there.  Needless to say they make a good sum of funds off me.  I've noticed that recently my orders have been *ahem* shall we say slow.  Now one of the perks of buying a certain amount online is "Free Super Saver Shipping" which you could set your clock by - 3 business days or so and *boom* it's in my hands.  Which is great like when I want to review Jaden's fabu new cookbook "Steamy Kitchen" and I am looking forward to the UPS guy knocking on the door with that gorgeously shot book (yes I leafed through a copy in the store - I couldn't wait).  I also ordered the Foodie Handbook by the one and only Pim.  Can we say I'm crazy stoked about both of these books - both of which I put back in anticipation of the order coming to my mailbox. 

Well - it's two weeks later and, guess what - not one but TWO orders are "lost in the mail".  That's my original order AND the order that they issued as a replacement for the first one that is "M.I.A" from a distribution center in NEW JERSEY - the next flippin' state over.

When I called with concern at the end of the week last week to find out what the heck is going on because well, you just can't get tracking from their inept distributor ARGIX DIRECT, they informed me that there were a few complaints and that the replacement would ship out via UPS to me from now on as I'm a member who has been with them for years.  The B&N operator was very understanding and also told me that she was having problems personally with this dumb as rocks (my description - NOT hers) ARGIX DIRECT.   She assured me it would ship out post haste and I again waited patiently for the little present to come to the door.  Now, mind you my Sephora order came and that I ordered SUNDAY NIGHT via UPS.  The UPS here in Philly rocks!  Love them (which, if you know me is quite the event because UPS in Orlando and New Hampshire seriously sucked!)

Well, I get an email from B&N which tells me that it reshipped my replacement order and *wait for it* it went via ARGIX DIRECT via US MAIL.  AGAIN - from New Jersey - next state over.  Shipped out and *boom* guess what - it's lost in the mail again and we can't find ANY tracking info for it because B&N and/or ARGIX dropped the flippin' ball.  What happened to "Ms. Lys - we're going to ship it to you ASAP through UPS so you won't have this problem again"

Needless to say, I lost my patience today when I had to talk to this gal "Cecile" or whatever who not only told me my address was wrong (newsflash - I changed it immediately when I moved and it's on all my receipts so check your flippin' screen dummy because the gal prior to you knew the right address) and then told me "ohhh - it's got to be lost".  When I told her I just renewed my membership and I wanted it canceled and refunded - no go.  She begrudgingly refunded my order cost for both books and I told her that we're having a hell of a breakup.  This is no Ross/Rachael Friends Breakup - this is the real deal as in don't call me, don't email me, lose my damn number we are O.V.E.R.  Seriously - OVER.  Which is sad and hurts me deeply because I really did love going to B&N and browsing the aisles.  Now, it's all Borders & Borders.com which is 20 min. out of the way for me but to prove my point, I'll do it. 

So Barnes & Noble - I don't believe a word of what you say anymore.  Clearly, while I know you are "cutting costs" by using this supposedly cheaper ARGIX DIRECT service, you just lost a very loyal (and profitable) customer.  I've put up with your lack of changing magazines, lack of stock in the Plymouth Meeting Store, etc. because to me B&N has been a part of my shopping loyalty since I was in college.  I just can't sit by and say "Oh it's okay" because really it's not.  What you are doing to customers is disappointing.  So, here's where I tell you publicly (and my readers) - do NOT buy the membership - it's not worth it.  And, that's money I will never see again but I'm sure you will need that $25 because you will lose more customers than me by year's end if you keep this inept shipping distributor.  Clearly, ARGIX has proved itself to be useless in my eyes not once but TWICE.  Go figure.

So excuse me while I head over to BORDERS to go buy the Foodie Handbook and Steamy Kitchen at FULL PRICE because, you know what, Borders has NEVER did me wrong like you have Barnes & Noble.  And I'm sure they will welcome my business (and wallet) with open arms.

Labels: Cooking in Stilettos, Guilty of Idiocy, Shopping, Wha Da Hell

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

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Sunday, July 19, 2009

Obsessed With: Elizabeth & James Jean Envelope Bootie...

I detest falling for celebrity "branded" lines, mainly because I've learned that often the celebs themselves really don't do anything but sign their name on the dotted line and collect a check.  Hey, I don't want to fault them for hustling, I just choose to not contribute to their "non-design" and participation - that's all.  For example, I REFUSE to wear Jessica Simpson anything.  I mean, seriously, what the hell does Jessica Simpson know about Plus Size clothing - NADA.  And I refused to shop at Avenue for 2 years until they got rid of her line.  The same goes with her shoes - hell to the no.

However, when I saw these booties, I started salivating.  The gorgeous gray color.  The fabulous ostrich detail and that heel.  Much to my chagrin, I learned that they were an Olsen twin line - Elizabeth & James.  And, sadly, they passed my true test - would I buy them at full price.  Yup, I would and am already plotting to allocate funds after the move for my "Welcome to Philly Booties".

Let's just hope I find coupons and cash back plus sale to alleviate the painful screams of my poor abused wallet.

 

Labels: Obsessed With, Shoe Lust, Shoes, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 8:32 PM :: 6 comments

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Tuesday, May 05, 2009

The Quest for Plaid (Or, In The Alternative, Why I Consider B&N Workers Book Wardens)…

Y’all know that Jen Lancaster’s newest book, PRETTY IN PLAID: A Life, a Witch, and a Wardrobe, or, the Wonder Years Before the Condescending,Egomaniacal, Self-Centered Smart Ass Phase is out today, right?

Well, having read all of her books, starting with Bitter is the New Black, I know that if it's penned by Ms. Lancaster, it will be hilar. And, I, my friends, will need all sorts of funny as I'm being stretched in 20bizillion different directions.

Pretty In Plaid seems to speak to me on a different level as it involves fashion, including that dreaded 80s fashion because I, like many of you, have been guilty of the charges of all things popped collars, aquanet, blue eyeliner and the like. Not now, of course (well - navy blue eyeliner from Smashbox now done tastefully, mind you) but still. It's fashion related and I need a book that will make me want to read and not zone out and have my mind race in 20bizillion different directions like it does the other 23.59 hours of the day, ya know?

So, this is an exciting week - Jen Lancaster's book is released; Colin Cowie's new line debuts on HSN and, to cap it off - Real Housewives finale AND Lipstick Jungle S. 2 on DVD (which my Tivo is excited because I can delete those 5 eps. I haven't watched yet because I haven't had time). Some people get excited about vacays - I'm excited about Pretty in Plaid, Lipstick Jungle, Colin Cowie and trash tv. Yeah, I know - shush - do not judge.

Last night, I was hoping that some "overzealous" worker started putting out the new books so I dropped by Barnes & Noble to do a little reconnaissance. I circled the store - nothing. Not. One. Book by Jen. NOTHING - what the heck?? I look again - NOTHING.

This could mean one of three things - people are catching up on their reading in anticipation of the release (it's Altamonte so I'll go with probably nope). They could be sold out (again - Altamonte - nope.) So I'm guessing the salespeople are hoarding the books so they can do a nifty display. Yup - probably. However, wouldn't hurt to ask, right? I mean, c'mon - this is the store that sold G. Garvin's new cookbook a MONTH before it was to be released. DOH!

Spotting a clerk nearby, I nicely inquire, "Do you have Pretty In Plaid" to which she snottily replied "No, that's out tomorrow - you'll have to wait. We'll get fined if we sell it to you early." Hold up - wait a minute. Again, let's remind everyone that this is the SAME STORE that sold a cookbook a MONTH before it was to be released? They know me here and know that when I check out - I check out big. Plus, dangnabit - I'm a member who has paid my dues. Sell. Me. The. Book. It's only going to be released in >5 hours for flippin' sake (if we were doing a Twilight stakeout and it could be sold at 12:01 a.m.)

But the Book Warden would not be swayed. She had about as much of a sense of humor as my 1st Grade teacher, Sr. Marie, at Holy Cross who pulled my ear as a child for talking in line. There was no pleading my case and no room for negotiation, no matter how savvy my litigation skills are.

:::sigh:::

Fast forward to when I'm in line waiting to check out with a copy of the latest Cosmo and another clerk asked me if I found everything okay. I told her of my plight and she said "No, we'll get fined if we sell them early." like they were Stepford Clerks or something. However, this gal was much nicer and I resolved that I would just buy it on release day and then Barnes & Noble and I would be done with our membership tango. I won't even talk about how I talked a customer into pre-ordering the Neelys' new cookbook and the Stepford Clerks had no idea who the heck the Neelys were. My theory was - the customer wanted it and if the worker was too stupid, then how am I going to stand idly by while a clerk's lack of action (or brain power) might lose the Neelys a sale. Again, I digress.

Apparently, karma smiled on me for helping the Lost Customer and not ripping out Book Warden's throat and letting this go. In my morning email was a coupon for 30% off a book from - wait for it - Borders. And, yes, they are holding a copy of Pretty in Plaid for me...

What are you doing still reading this post - go out and pick up a copy of Pretty in Plaid! Trust me, you won't be sorry.

Labels: Books, Guilty of Idiocy, Jen Lancaster, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 6:39 PM :: 4 comments

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Sunday, May 03, 2009

Obsessed With: Cole Haan's Spring Offerings...

I know we're in a recession and all but isn't this just perfect for summer? :::le sigh:::

Cole Haan's Small E/W Tote from the Biscayne Collection

The One Bag I REALLY want - even more than the Kooba Natasha is this

Cole Haan's Phoebe

And to go with either of my choices: The Cole Haan Handbag Hook

Yes, I know - I need Cole Haan rehab... One good thing to know - SmartBargains always tends to get them for a great price. Something to look forward to.

Labels: Obsessed With, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 11:07 PM :: 2 comments

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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Shoe Lust: L.A.M.B. v. Bakers...

Don't ask me WHY I adore these - I just do. I can't fathom the rhyme or reason. They aren't timeless, they are absolutely trendy and I think that these shoes are, as Stacy London would say, pure "Sex on a Stiletto".

L.A.M.B. "TAMMY"

Luckily for my wallet there is "replica" that is almost the daggone same (and no - it wasn't made by Jessica Simpson. Reese would SHOOT me). Check out the Bakers version...

Bakers "BERKLEY"

That just might leave me some $$$ to actually save towards the pair of L.A.M.B. shoes I am lusting after horribly

L.A.M.B.'s Tailynn...

That sound of distant wailing you hear - that's my closet screaming. :::sigh:::

Labels: Obsessed With, Shoe Lust, Shoes, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 6:03 PM :: 6 comments

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Monday, April 20, 2009

Meet Mini-Bout...

The Loubous arrived on Saturday and, oh my heavens, they are gorgeous - a rich chocolate brown that just is set off perfectly against the red peep toe. Granted the cell phone pic quality sucks compared to the in person view as evidenced by a co-worker's loud exclamation of "SHUT UP" when she saw the telltale red sole. My slow preparation of advancing to 4"+ heels over the past year helped me adjust to the height of these lovelies so I wasn't walking like a baby calf taking her first steps. I was meant for Loubous - of that I'm sure.

Ahhhhh - there is no going back, my friends. Trust me I'll be wearing the living daylights out of these shoes but even FB of Fashionably Broke In The City would be proud of the deal I scored...

However, it dawned on me that I mentioned that I would get Mini Bout Peep Toes by CL in 2009 as part of my "Secret" goals. Little did I know that I would find the exact shoes I've been lusting after that just happened to be in my size at the right time and the right price. I'm blessed indeed...

Labels: Cash Back, Shoes, Shopping, Thanks and Gratitude, The Secret

Posted by Lys :: 11:14 PM :: 7 comments

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Tuesday, April 14, 2009

The Choice...

After my morning "Oh Em Gee - Look at this Manolo. I Die" email this morning (Daggone you Barneys, Neimans, Saks etc.), I do what I always do - forward it to Meowmix to go "I'm in Love." Now, granted when it comes to Manolo v. Loubou, well, they both are high up on my list.

Her response - "Ummmm... when did we graduate to $700 shoes"

Well, that would be today. I've had my eye on these gorgeous brown mini-peep toe Loubou pumps that were only a fraction of the price for the originals. The clock was ticking and, after multiple debates, emails to Meowmix, Kar, SL and crew, I had to make a decision. I originally rationalized it as "Well, if it crosses my path again, I'll pay attention". Couple that with "If I get cash back, I'll think twice" and, sure enough - it came across my path again WITH 3% cash back and these were the real deal. After that, it was down to a choice of "Shoes or TV" to replace the tv I had which is not working as well as it used to. Well, my inner Carrie Bradshaw won that debate. (Kar suggested I go with the shoes since I need to buy the TV after I move. TV and moving truck could equal breakage.) So, don't mind me as I immediately go into hiding after I stalk the mailman for my Loubous which are on their way to my hot not-so-little feet.

I'm so sorry FB. They were too good of a deal to resist and I'm back on e-Fund discipline tomorrow. Pinky swear!

Labels: Shoes, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 6:38 PM :: 5 comments

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Monday, March 30, 2009

To Wii or Not To Wii... Coupled WIth A Guilty of Idiocy...

I've been wrestling with the decision - Shoes or Wii and, if y'all know me as well as I think you do, you know that's a tough call.


Well, tonight - I bit the bullet and hustled my behind to Best Buy to pick it up. I figured I'd see if I liked the Wii first before I picked up the Wii Fit and did my research. See, when I make my mind up for a big purchase - it's not an impulse. It involves more than one trip, extensive research, in the case of shoes - some fondling action, and lots of what if scenarios playing in my head.


I originally was going to get it last week and, after I checked out, I went to pull out my USAA card and *bam* it wasn't there - I had left it on my breakfast counter in the kitchen. That's God's way of saying "Hold Up, Lys - have you REALLY thought this through?" Thankfully, I did as I had some major pet bills this week with Shadow's annual checkup and shots and their quarterly baths.


I've been through hell this past quarter and I figured that the Wii if anything would give me something to deal with the frustration of the daily and perhaps have some fun. Hell, even throw some exercise into the mix because, while Wiggs has been giving me quite the workout chasin' after his little troublemaking behind (more on that in a future post), I need something that really will push it over the edge.

So, tonight, off I went to Best Buy with the thought process of buying the Wii first - setting that up and seeing if I like it. If that worked out, then I'd pick up the Wii Fit this weekend using cash back if possible.

I walked into Best Buy and Oh.My.GOD it was like Christmas Stalkers all over the place. No matter how many times I told them I was "just looking", they came at me like a swarm of locusts. I even had this one guy go "Ma'am - if you have a question on games, I know them all - I play most of them". I felt like I was in an episode of Big Bang Theory and was about to tell one of those guys to take a hike.

I pick out a game (Cooking Mama - harder than it looks), grab the Wii and head to the check out. Then I get assaulted by this guy sellin' me HARSH on the warranty and talking to me like I'm a flippin' idiot?!?!? Ummm... newsflash bucko - I know way more than you think I do and, if there is a problem, your "quasi warranty" isn't going to help shush my mouth - thats fo' dayum sure. I have no patience for people that are stuck on stupid and this boy was stuck hard. He kept pushing and wouldn't accept NO for an answer so finally as I was ready to return everything and tell him that he can take that warranty and #*@*@*#*#, I decided to quell the evil wench inside of me and just tell him to finalize the sale - period. I had that look and he tried one last attempt and I shut it down quick. The Hard Sell = No More Sales at Best Buy. And when I say NO, I mean NO.

Damn! What part of NO did Best Buy People not understand - N or the O?

So, Best Buy lost a long term customer by a bunch of overzealous sales people at the Altamonte store. I'll be picking up any future games, etc. at any other store BUT Best Buy.

As for Wii - it took a bit but it's set up. And, since I'm taking the day off tomorrow to get the car checked out from the accident, I might have to drop by Sears to pick up the Wii Fit - because while they may stalk me, they know when not to push that button with me.

Do you Wii - and if so, any suggestions?

Labels: Guilty of Idiocy, Random Mess, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 11:13 PM :: 6 comments

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Sunday, March 22, 2009

To Quote Pretty Woman: Yo, Bloomingdales in Orlando - Big Mistake, Big BIG Mistake...

I swear - shopping at Bloomingdales has gone from being enjoyable to just downright irritating. I made an excursion to the Millenia Mall this weekend to do a little "retail therapy" - on the agenda: Cole Haan shoes, a little Kooba purse fondling and, of course, the Bloomingdales Home Sale.

While entering shoes, sales person did NOT greet - as a matter of fact, the Bloomingdales sales manager looked RIGHT through me and blatantly ignored me. Eeehhh, I thought - whatever. Well, he didn't get a sale, that's for sure. Nor did his sales peeps. I just laughed it off with my father.

Head over to purses on the hunt for some Kooba bags (my fave) - sales people were just not interested in working - more like interested in chatting and engaging in a lot of "customer - we don't have any customers". No sale for them.

I laughed it off again and told my father about that line in Pretty Woman - you know where she came back to the store going "Big Mistake - Big BIG Mistake" when the salesperson decided to not make a sale. See, I wasn't dressed "up" for Millenia - dress jeans, a wrap sweater and some sneaker like shoes. Of course the bag was recognizable - as the woman in Cole Haan followed me around like I was her BFF. However, handbag wenches in Bloomingdales were not helpful at all. Fine then.

Head up to the home sale and fell in LOVE with a Le Creuset wide oval oven which is smaller, much like a braiser, and not deep like a full dutch oven. I got ahold of a sales person from Furniture who was so helpful and we hunted for it left and right. The housewares sales person - Amal - well, when she felt that she had to do her job and help us after taking all the more "dressed up" people who didn't plan on buying a thing and those that were waiting AFTER me - decided to tell me that a dutch oven is just like the braiser - same thing and I should just buy the dutch oven. Newsflash, I know my Le Creuset and that, my dear Amal, is NOT the same. What's funny is that the gal from Furniture knew more than the housewares gal, Amal, and that, of course, gave Bloomingdales the title of Guilty of Idiocy. Epic Fail. Doesn't surprise me - the Orlando Bloomindales needs a severe overhaul.

Just as well - I love giving my money to better retailers like Chefs Catalog and other worthy spots that know their product lines. As for Bloomingdales, we're not going to be BFFs ever. Especially the Bloomies in Orlando.

Labels: Guilty of Idiocy, Orlando, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 9:54 PM :: 5 comments

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Tuesday, March 03, 2009

Why Is It...

Bullets abound... be prepared... get that coffee/wine/cocktail and hurry back.

Why is it:

• That when life gets crazy, one gets caught up in the whirlwind. The 9to5, home and don't even get me started on the pug has me going "WTH"
• That when I'm away from my feed reader, I come back to *gah* so many blog posts that I wish my speed reading also came with speed commenting and, sadly, that can never be. I'm contemplating the idea of doing the unthinkable and hit the "Wipe Slate Clean" aka Mark All Read and hope that you all will forgive me as I start fresh. I figure you don't want 20 bizillion comments from the posts over the last month do you?
• That people insist on playing the "blame game". I don't care WHO screwed something up - let's just figure out a solution and move on. Gah - if I hear one more person go "It's not my fault, so and so did that" I'm going to have a come to Jesus meeting with them and they will think I'm really a shrew.
• That when some people are given an inch, they go for a foot. I know I try to be accomodating but c'mon - people need to use their brains and common sense more. I can't do EVERYTHING. Ugh!
• That when I say I'm going to be nicer for Lent, I'm told I'm TOO nice and need to be more of a wench. That shocked me because I thought I had the wench thing down pat.
• That my travels have been curtailed because I need to start focusing on the daily life here and, perhaps, I can go to Philly in a few months. Right now I am just too daggone busy.
• That I have two (2!!!) Phillies games this weekend and it hasn't hit me yet that while my Philly crew is going to be freezing in their 1 ft. of snow, I'm going to be basking in the sun staring at Shane Victorino and the boys hopefully kickin' the Braves and the Detroit Lions butts.
• That my cooking, while it has improved since I decided to pay attention at SOBE and actually WRITE about not only my time there but try some recipes (you can see the post HERE), it took one heavy pot to kick my ass and I pulled a muscle that hurt so badly that I am hobbling worse then that hunchback of Notre Dame. It even had me passin' out at 9:30 last night (which pissed off the garbage pail pug and I missed "24". Thank god for TiVo.
• Speaking of TiVo - what is with it with me and stupid shows? Don't get me wrong, you'd have to drag me kickin' and screaming from NCIS, Criminal Minds and CSI (The ORIGINAL - I could care less about the other two) but I HAD to TiVo some new stupid show Running in Heels (duh, the title alone made me hit the "Season Pass" button) and I'm ready to cat scratch one of the wenches on there. And, yes, I got sucked into the Real Housewives of NYC phenom (ugh Alex!!! Had no idea Bethany was at SOBE) and Top Chef (disappointing season - ready to smack up Hosea. Personally I don't care if he got "close" with Leah.) All in all, I'm turning into a fan of the reality "mind suck". Clearly, this needs to be addressed and stopped post haste and I need to be smacked.
• That I haven't even had the urge to shop - don't get me wrong, I read my sale alerts and, yes, I contemplated a pair of Loubous that were $300 in my size but I'm not Elvis. I don't need any blue suede shoes boots.
• That I just really want it to be Friday already because, dammit, this gal is exhausted.

And how are you all? C'mon tell me - what did I miss?

Labels: Random Mess, Shopping, Travel

Posted by Lys :: 7:10 PM :: 4 comments

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Sunday, February 15, 2009

Recap - In Bullet Form...

My mind is still unable to form massive paragraphs to let you know what's been going on here in the land of the Rat so I'll give you the update in bullet points...

• The Pug & The Cat: Still warring - but this is totally on the cat's doing. She's screaming bloody murder every time he wants to play or give her a smooch. Eeehhhh - she's going to hate not having cookiez if she keeps this up.
• The Pug: OMG - I have adopted a garbage pail. He. Eats. EVERYTHING! I mean E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G. I feel like I have a 2 year old where I'm constantly chasing him going "Wiggs - what the eff did you eat. Spit it out!" And we won't go into the sushi argument. Apparently, because I had sushi tonight, in his mind I was obligated to share. I didn't. He's pissed. Tough shit. I should just give him some Wasabi and see how that frosts his cookie. He'll have a jambalaya flashback to last week where he begged and whined and barked and pleaded only to get a small morsel. By his standards it was lip smackin' good - until the heat kicked in and that little pug ran for his water dish. Don't think he'll bug me for jambalaya again...
• The Pug: Also has issues where he spins on his tail again -anal gland issues. I know. I know TMI. But you know things are bad when you email the vet for an appointment and know that you will get charged for "Hazardous waste disposal". It's going to be a recurrent 6 week expense. Lucky. Ducky. Me. Shoe fund is depleting before my eyes.
• Cooking took a backseat to life and the revamp of the culinary blog. I seemed to have gotten my culinary mojo motor running and we'll see what happens next weekend as I head down to South Beach for a little "research" and fun as I attend Food Network's South Beach Food & Wine Festival. Can't wait to see the culinary demonstrations - Sunny Anderson, Bobby Flay, Tyler Florence, Michael Symon, Anne Burrell and so many more. Will take pictures - promise.
• My neighbors - downstairs. If I have to deal with the residuals of ONE MORE FOOD FIGHT, I swear I'm going to flip a kid. The parking is non-existent as there are 3-4 roommates and they all have friends coming in and out all. the. damn. time. They apparently go to the "Golf School". I should have known when I saw one of the idiots waving a golf club at an overhead light like it was a game. The complex says that "well, boys will be boys". That's fine but the one problem with the food fights and their constant mess is the fact that we have a resurgence of palmettos. GEE THANKS! Hmm... wonder I catch a couple of the slimy rat bastid bugs, I could just leave them for the idiots.
• The shoe shopping has been pretty quiet - but don't worry. I have a few good "OBSESSED WITH" selections this week that will show y'all that I haven't lost my shoe game JUST yet.

And, how are y'all doing?

Labels: Food Network, Mr. Wiggles, Random Mess, Shadow, Shoes, Shopping, The Great Palmetto War, Travel

Posted by Lys :: 10:35 PM :: 5 comments

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Thursday, January 29, 2009

Setting Goals - Stiletto Style...

Have you ever said "If XYZ happens, then I'm going to [do something]" as a sort of reward for putting up with the grief that you had to endure? Well, without going into TOO much detail, let's just say that I remarked to Kar, Meowmix and SL that if a certain situation played out a certain way, this gal was just going to bite the bullet and buy her damn Loubous. I mean, I put up with way more grief then a gal should EVER have to put up with.



Sadly, as predicted, that situation is drawn out longer than an episode/season/year of American Idol and there would be no Loubous for me. However, the universe is consoling a gal because in my ShopStyle email today (love them! Seriously love them!) I heard about a pair of Giuseppe Zanotti pumps in my size, my style - classic, were marked down from $545 to





wait for it








wait for it

$109.00

AND to boot, I could get cash back for it AND free shipping. Granted they are final sale and all but if it doesn't work out - up on Ebay they go.

One might think that apparently the Universe also feels my pain. I'm still gonna get my Loubous, but I just made a different goal for me to achieve that milestone.

Aren't these gorg? :::le sigh:::

Labels: Cash Back, Random Mess, Shoes, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 6:08 PM :: 6 comments

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Saturday, January 17, 2009

On The Agenda...

This is going to be a busy weekend for the Lys household. The pug has a "Playdate" with his pug buddies from the Central Florida Pug Rescue. We're going to attempt yet another car ride - this time with him having a special seatbelt. I've learned that they call him Mr. Wiggles for a reason - he wiggles out of EVERYTHING. Car rides with him and I are never good. He wants to drive and I don't want to channel my inner Britney and let him.

Later, I'll be heading off to the Florida Mall to fondle some Loubous I have my eye on (and I am threatening to buy if a certain goal is reached but as it's work related, I can't write about it here :::sigh:::), attend a Dior event at Nordys courtesy of one of the best makeup peeps ever, oogle a copper gratin pan that I want to add to my kitchen and then it's more errands and then reorganizing the kitchen.

Tomorrow, I'm working on the Cooking in Stilettos revamp, backing up the laptop (yes, FB, I paid attention), doing a couple things I had promised to do (and lapsed on), and making some care packages to send to some peeps. If I'm up to the challenge, I'm considering another trip to the outlets.

Monday is my Sunday - chilling is on the agenda. Also, an intervention with the cat and the dog is in order. Sweet boy that he is, Wiggs tried to be friends with her yesterday and sniff her to give her a quick kiss. The princess turned into this raging, hissing monster growling bloody murder. My heart broke for Wiggs as he ran off and curled up on the couch with his toy, all sad eyed. Later, he tried to share his toy with her last night - again, she hissed. So he's trying - she's not.

What do you have scheduled this weekend?

Labels: Cooking, Cooking in Stilettos, Mr. Wiggles, Random Mess, Shadow, Shopping, Weekend

Posted by Lys :: 10:25 AM :: 4 comments

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Monday, January 12, 2009

Where Oh Where Has My Internet Gone...

I'm so mad at myself. I was doing a search and clicked on a link and *boom* I now have some stupid Fraud.spyware thing on my laptop that Norton *surprise surprise* can't fix. Wish I could switch to MacAffe but since this sucker is already paid for *sigh* I need to supplement my "protection".

So bear with me as I try to get things up and running... not that anything spectacular is going on *snort* outside of my break-up with Sur La Table. In my opinion, we're divorced and no chance for reconciliation. In their mind, they think they have a chance. They keep sending me emails, one of which was "How are you enjoying your order?" Like I even WANT to see that (note: Order done at other retailers. Sur La Table + I are SO over - there's not even a word to describe HOW OVER we are. Williams-Sonoma peeps even agreed with me that SLT seriously screwed up though Williams Sonoma was more than happy to take my $$$)

Let's go to a happy place - and one that doesn't involve me buying shoes or shopping at Sephora - those will come up later this week. OK, I have to ask - did anyone watch "24" last night? If so, what did ya think?

Labels: Computers, Guilty of Idiocy, Random Mess, Shopping, TV

Posted by Lys :: 8:45 AM :: 7 comments

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Saturday, January 03, 2009

Everyone's Talking About Resolutions...

Y'all know the drill - everyone makes resolutions which, in my opinion, is giving themselves an easy out if they don't make it. For example, I could say that I resolve to cut back on my Starbucks runs. Ummm.. I tried that and it doesn't work. It's like when as a kid I would resolve to give up chocolate for Lent. That just never played out.


Instead, Single Ma over at Fabulous Financials talked about "Life Goals" and that is a way of thinking that I wholeheartedly support. I could say I resolve to "get out of debt" but I know that I might just shrug it off at the first sign of a sassy pair of shoes. However, I have a HUGE Life Goal this year that makes me think twice before I go shopping. Plus, with the state of the economy, I want to really build up that E-Fund because I've made a goal to buy my own place by 2010. (Plus - an apartment with these two monsters = chaos. Trust!)


I've also been inspired by various bloggers who have really taken the bull by the horns and either transitioned their blogs to WordPress (Blogger - I *heart* you but Cooking In Stilettos needs a new design and platform) so I've made a Life Goal to actually LEARN my HTML and programming, etc. I learned so much already from some fab bloggers like Hotfessional, Fabulously Broke, Single Ma, Erin Cooks!, The Chic Life, The Leftover Queen, and Chef B, etc. where I'm inspired to just go forth and blog. However, I'm NOT going to blog with BLOG365 HANGING OVER MY HEAD!! That about drove me nuts. Plus, a few months ago, I had dinner with some amazing food bloggers that has really made me reflect on how to make Cooking In Stilettos better...


Another life goal is to really get into the kitchen and play more. I'm working like crazy at the 9to5 where I finally realized that if I continued at this pace, my life is going to pass me by. So I'm learning to take some time for myself. The only time I really don't let my mind race to work issues is when I'm chopping my little heart out in the kitchen. However, the pug will be playing personal trainer to help me work off all that cooking goodness.


I've also made it a goal this year to work on revamping the PR side of things and my writing. Thanks to circumstances that crossed my path earlier in 2008, I've learned I am damn good at doing Culinary PR so while the entertainment industry works itself out with all their recession drama (too many buddies of mine have been laid off), I'm going to learn all I can about the culinary side of things.


Finally, and this is a goal that might be contrary to some of the stuff above, I've resolved to buy my first pair of Loubous (with cash - not plastic!) Now, if that means scouring the outlets, the Internets etc. for the best deal - I'm game. However, I'm also making it a goal to pare down the closet, getting rid of stuff that I don't absolutely love and wear on the regular and the main shoes I find myself wearing are those that are well made. I have a number of pairs of shoes that I rarely, if ever, wear. So EBay and I will be BFFs for a while. Apparently, the Loubou desire has also infected Meowmix because on NYE she sent me a pair of shoes that she fell for and, lo and behold, they were red-sole lovelies. These are the ones I currently have my eye on.





Not a bad Life Goal list to work on in 2009... What do you have on the agenda for 2009?

Labels: Blog, Great Blogs, Life Goals, PF, PR, Shoes, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 11:57 AM :: 8 comments

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Saturday, December 20, 2008

A Short, Yet Pleasant Jaunt...

Well, I took Predo's advice and just chilled around the city today. I slept in, caught up on some emails, etc. in my fancy lounger by the window overlooking the river and the Ben Franklin Bridge and then sauntered over to the Italian Market to pick up a few things for the holidays. I love getting the fresh spices from there and it's so much better than buying the spices at the grocery store. Along with picking up MORE coffee again and some chocolates for some people, I was pretty much shopped out. I also took time to reflect on the blessings that I've experienced over the past year and gave thanks for all that I've been able to experience.

Yesterday's events were pretty relaxed as well. After I landed, it was off to the Cherry Hill mall to find *the* outfit for the night's events. I just wasn't comfortable with what I packed. It was too late to stop by Justine's grave as the mausoleum closes at 3:00. Based on the conditions I heard we were to encounter, I decided casual was best along with something that photographed well. I've learned that you can't get a decent sweater in Orlando - everything there is so "Florida centered" so I figured it was better if I just bought that up here.

We had dinner at the Bourbon and sampled their new menu. Ant and BMIC made sure that a gal's cable cars were available and it was a fun evening. OurBuddy and CK kept us in hysterics, seeing Jo again after 20 years was amazing - she hasn't aged a DAY - she's still looking fabulous. Am and Laura were a fit of giggles all night and the other peeps there were too much!!! Loved it.

Tonight, I dropped by Amadas for culinary inspiration and some fabulous cocktails (don't worry - will disclose more on Cooking In Stilettos), chilled out watching peeps ice skate, visited Manayunk to see it all decorated for the holidays and am flying out tomorrow back to my life in Orlando.

Philly - while I'll miss you, I'll be back. Just make sure you have some spiced apple sangria ready for a gal please ...

Labels: Cooking in Stilettos, Friends, Philly, Shopping, Travel

Posted by Lys :: 8:53 PM :: 1 comments

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Wednesday, December 03, 2008

The One Where Ice Coffee Equals Christian Louboutin...

Tis the season to be jolly. For me, 'tis also the season to watch those pennies. So, while I was crunching my financial numbers and wincing repeatedly, one glaring cost kept coming up over and over again.

It's no secret that I can't make coffee. No matter how many times I try or new machines I get, the coffee I make still comes out tasting like swill. Not to mention, if I grab it at the 9to5, it's not as good as Starbucks aka 4bux. In talking with a co-worker and lamenting about the cost of living, lack of raises, inflation and how what was once a $50 grocery bill has since morphed into a $98 grocery bill, it's a surprise that some people can even function. As quickly as the money flows in, it quickly flows out. And when I starting thinking about where my money was leaking too, I had to focus on my coffee runs. Basically, my inner Suze Orman/Larry Winget/Jean Chatzky is freaking the eff out. And by freaking out, it means I have to admit a glaring problem - I just can't make coffee. And, those that can't make, buy. And by buy - yeah, I buy.

Here's what hit my little blonde brain today:

I run to Starbucks during work about 4 to 5 times a week. That's my 20 min. of piece and quiet (and normally my "lunch"). So, figuring that it averages at $6 per run, let's estimate that at $30 a week. Therefore, one could easily assume that it is $30 a week which translates into $120 a month and, therefore $2400 a year. WHAT THE HELL??

Couple that above figure with runs to Dunkin' Donuts at night and on the weekend, on average about 3 to 4 times a week. At an average of $5 per run, let's estimate that at $20 a week which translates to $80 a month and, therefore, $960 a year.

Add those two up and you get $3,360 - IN FLIPPIN' ICED COFFEE?!?!!!

My Bampa once presented the simple premise of equating a massively high bill to something that gives me pleasure to demonstrate what it translates to. (Back then it was a ridiculous phone bill from calling my boyfriend at the time = how many Limited Sweaters - but trust, I got the point). SO, let's see what can I get for $3,360?

2 Jimmy Choo Riki Handbags

5 pairs of Christian Louboutin shoes

6 Kooba handbags

10 pairs of Stuart Weitzman shoes

3.5 trips to Philly

and so on

Better yet - I could be earning ING interest on that $3,360. Therefore, with you readers as my witness, my coffee budget has been slashed from $50 a week to $20 a week (if that). I will have to learn how to brew coffee and, if it's still swilly - tough, I have to buck up and deal.

Tough times ahead...

Labels: Current Events, Guilty of Idiocy, PF, Random Mess, Shopping

Posted by Lys :: 6:15 PM :: 9 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:

• Fat Wallet
• Mr. Rebates
• Ebates. (BTW - they are currently running a promo where you get a $10.00 sign-up bonus [and I get a referral bonus]
• CashBaq
  

Happy Shopping!

Labels: Cash Back, Holiday, Shopping

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

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