Just Because...

Listen To This: Alex Sayz "Shame On Me"...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:12:00 +0000

Now THIS is something that should be pumpin' out the car speakers on the way to the shore, no? Check out this fabu track, "Shame On Me" by Alex Sayz that just dropped today - love love love! Brings me back to the days of WMC in Miami - this is gonna go places, of that I'm sure.

Getting Back To The Daily...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:20:00 +0000

You know when you fall off the blogging wagon, sometimes it's NOT just like riding a bike? Then again, it's just a question of finding my inner voice that has been silenced by the chaos from the daily grind. I can't tell you how many times I say "OMG that is such good blog fodder" and then *poof* its out of my head quicker than a TV show getting cancelled. Not to mention that I have something huge going on in my life but I can't blog about it because I need to get ducks in a row. Egads - what is a gal to do.

So, yup - I'm trying to jump back on the wagon and make a go of it - and yes, I have some news to share. All in due time, lovelies - all in due time.

Patient Update...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 03:57:00 +0000

Last week was CHAOS with a capital "C". After I posted about Wiggy and his diagnosis of kennel cough, he took a turn for the worse. Last week we had heatwaves that were crazy hot and the ac in the apartment was, again, on the fritz.

Wiggles started panting like crazy, wheezing and getting himself all worked up (dude - STOP chasing the cat!) and I tried to keep him calm, cooling him down with icy cold towels and ice cubes. About 1 in the morning he just collapsed, couldn't walk and I called the ER to see what their thoughts were. They told me to bring him in ASAP and, sure enough, he had heat exhaustion with the kennel cough. Thankfully they kept me calm because I kept feeling like I failed Wiggy somehow - one shot of steroids later to reduce the swelling in his throat (and over $160), they fixed him up and we were headed home. We won't talk about the buggy fight I had the in car (again - they attack) and I thought all was well with him laying in front of the fan resting. They assured me that the shot would take care of him for the night and knock him out. However, an hour later, he was back to the heavy panting and crawling into the kitchen to lay next to his water dish and fridge. By this time it was already 5 am.

I called his vet the minute they opened and they took him in first thing as I waged battle with the apartment complex to fix the AC yet again. Turns out the compressor unit had a huge leak so the house has been comfortably 65-70 all week. The head maintenance guy took care of it personally and for that I'm grateful. The vet called me at the end of the day to check to see if the AC was fixed as they couldn't release him to me unless it was. Thankfully it was all fixed (and, funny side note - I learned to open and close the air vents - I have 12 ft. ceilings - I didn't know that they were quasi closed. Thanks to SL, those vents are open more than a Dennys).

Wiggy has been working on getting better all week - he's still weak at times, still chasing the cat but he is getting better by the day. I've been keeping an eye on him all week. Even Shadow has been worried checking on him.

I'm happy to say that his personality has returned and, yes, school can't come quick enough. Last night he stared me down and let one go on the rug because I didn't take him out with SL and I when we went to Friendlys. Somehow I just need to remember that I almost lost him and be thankful that he's got a little feistiness in him - even if he does continue to chase Shadow only to give her kisses.

Wiggs Update and Why I Will NEVER Kennel Him At Preppy Pet Again...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 19:52:00 +0000

I'm a bit perturbed - let me rephrase - I'm SERIOUSLY perturbed. Wiggs is not the most graceful pug but, if anything, he's pretty damn healthy for a pug.

Until this week. When I got home from Philly, I picked him up from his kennel, Preppy Pet Suites in Longwood. I spoke to them last Saturday and they assured me he was just fine. When I picked him up, Mandy made the remark that he was "quite rambunctious". Fine - I understand that he's quite the pain in the ass and I was fine with it. He got home and I checked his bag to only find that most of his food was still in there. What the hell did they feed my dog? I mean, if I'm paying $160 for the pug to stay there, dammit, they will keep his diet as is. I tend to research what is fed to him after many food dramas and he's on a steady diet (sans the TooJays but that's occasionally). They took it upon themselves to feed him Cesars which is something that is on "clearance" at the supermarkets here and I don't know what the hell is in it. Their reasoning "He wouldn't eat his Chef Michaels" Sure he wouldn't - he's conning you for people food. If you leave it - he eats it. They could have told me this on Saturday and I would have advised them as such - not just "Oh he's just fine and behaving!" I had words with them and also asked that they please send me his collar which they neglected to put with his things (Note to Dana - I'm STILL waiting for it - please send it ASAP!). I was annoyed but not fully ready to break up with them yet.

Fast forward to yesterday - the heat index is unbearable - mostly it's 98 but with a heat index of 108-110. As Lesli can assure y'all, pugs and extreme heat is NOT good. So, I tend to keep him indoors. I'm still going through hell with the air conditioning drama here at the apartment (*ahem* Yo apartment management, perhaps we need a new compressor - stop putting a bandaid on a gaping wound, 'k??). However, he has a fan, steady supply of ice cubes and his new platinum fountain of chilled water. He's good. However his panting and hacking and wheezing had me wondering yesterday what the hell was wrong with him. He was up every hour on the hour moving across the bed to find a comfy spot. I even put in those "ice bricks" that you use with coolers under the sheets so he could lay on top of them. Still he was far from comfy and started dry heaving. Basically, it was a restless night for both of us and the cat who kept coming in the room to check on him.

This morning, I figured enough is enough and called his vet who, thankfully, is open 7 days a week (Altamonte Animal Clinic and Dr. Hart and Dr. Schnars seriously rock!) Jennifer, hearing the panic in my voice, told me that they would see him early this afternoon. First, I learned that he lost .7 lbs at the kennel - not good. In addition, after Dr. Schnars examined him, not only does he have a fever, but also a nasty case of kennel cough. $130 later from this appointment and I'm sure it will be more $$$ in 2 weeks at his follow up and my savings account is going "SERIOUSLY WHAT THE @@*#*@!" However, they take the best care of Wiggs and I'm thankful that they could fit him in today and catch it in time. They even advised that I present the bill to Preppy Pet for reimbursement but that just would never happen.

Preppy Pet, however, and I will NOT be friends and I think it's time that I have a bit of a come to Jesus session with them besides telling them that I will no longer utilize their services nor recommend them to anyone - ever! I entrusted them with my pug and this just is unacceptable. While I know that kennel cough can happen, it shouldn't have been this severe.

On a sidenote: what's funny is the look on the tech's face when I told her that Wiggs was at Preppy Pet. Granted he was there for 6 days but apparently it was 6 days too long and you know that face like that gal made to Carrie in Sex & The City when she brought up Aidan - yeah, that face was the tech's face at mention of Preppy Pet. Perhaps I'm not the only person that will be breaking up with them in the near future.

Forgive Me Internets For I Have Sinned...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 03:31:00 +0000

It's been days since my last blog post.

So, yeah, you all are sick of hearing me say "Life is getting in the way" but, quite frankly, I'm going to keep saying it. Lots of fodder over the weekend jaunt to Philadelphia but I really don't know where to begin. So, since I have the day off to pick up Mr.Wiggles from his extended posh puggy vacay, I will have to upload photos with the appropriate snarky remark and hope that it translates.

Also, I have to say this to the Boston fans in the back of the house - send me to a Phillies game to cheer on my team and my team will spank the Red Sox every.time. So now I have a new tradition - that being to watch my team in person beat my family and friends' favorite team into the ground. Yeah I know - tres thrilling. See, haven't you missed me?

Also, I have so much thinking to do after this trip - opportunity is just around the corner - it's a question of wrapping my head around the ideas and running with it - not just pulling my standard m.o. - that being ostrich + head + sand = Lys' usual way of dealing with crap.

Thankfully, SL took care of little Ms. Shadow but I think she'll be happy to hear her momma come home - at least for a day. The Pug - that sucker better sing for me when he sees me. I missed the two furballs. I even called his little "daycare" spot to see if he's been behaving. They told me he's been an angel - I think they are lying. This dog kicked sand all over a blind girl doggie during his last stay - angel my butt. This is Wiggs we're talking about. He and I have had such a rough go of it lately where I was doubting my patience level or if he even cares to stay with me or move onto a new home. He tends to last a few months and then get rambunctious and he's been misbehaving so much lately that I feel like he's a two year old and needs constant attention. Perhaps its due to his history - or not. Either way, he needs to learn "quiet/peace/calm the *@*!!* down" As I told Rifleman, giving him up is not an option - he's with me for a good 10 years or so and somehow Wiggs and I have to pull a Tim Gunn and "Make It Work".

Here's a story for you - Shadow's been getting him worked up. He sees her and he wants to chase. When he's calm, he doesn't chase. Well, her way of getting him in trouble - appearing the doorway of the bedroom, making noise, staring him down as he's laying on the bed and *boom* he's off and running. Often this happens at 3/4 in the morning necessitating me to get up and go get him and put him back on the bed only for her to wait 30 min. and do it again. He also runs around the bed like "Momma get up! Shadow play!" and one morning it was so hot, he got so excited and he threw up ON MY FACE!

No, you read that right - my face, my pillow - everything. He just let one loose - Exorcist style. Who was the culprit - the cat for getting him worked up and him for downing vats of water. So I hope she finds a way to live with him because me and my pillow were at wits end.

Also, before I left I had to get a new water dish - in Florida, <del> Oversize Cockroaches</del> <del> palmettos </del> waterbugs *snort* tend to love the dishes and I found 4 of those suckers in the internal housing of the animals $70 platinum fountain having a party on the carbon filter. That fountain went in the trash so quickly I was done. My dad wanted to know if I could salvage - no, I'm sorry - I'm not going to have my animals drinking out of a porous plastic "fountain" that has been doused in bleach. So I went off to PetSmart before I left to pick up some "Vegas" style fountain for the cat - and let me tell you that putting it together almost killed me. You need a master's degree to put that crap together. For the price I paid, not only should it have been pre-assembled, but also should have come with a cocktail (or three) Couple that with no sleep and I was one cranky ***** on the flight down. Now that I'm heading back to Orlando, I'm quasi-relaxed and ready for the week ahead.

Well, at least after I finish this Baileys - I clearly didn't drink enough on this trip.

Putting It Into Perspective... Or In The Alternative, Why Some People Better Step Back...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 04:35:00 +0000

I'm pretty hush on the boy detail here and there's a reason - mainly I don't like to put people on blast. However, I saw something this evening that had me rollin' my eyes - mostly because I don't buy into girlie bullshit.

This is my opinion - If a guy is dating someone - he's DATING. There is no implied exclusivity unless it's fully discussed. Perhaps it's because I think like a guy but if I'm dating someone or hangin' around with someone, there is no "one and only one" unless it's discussed and cards are on the table. It is what it is. I also would never put my whole heart on my sleeve for all of MySpace, Twitter and Facebook to read. I also don't assume crap either.

Now there is a friend of mine who I do like to hang out with from time to time. He likes to hit me with the "I Miss You" and "Love You" and blah blah bullshit. My response, "Backatcha" because while I care for the cat, I don't know him well enough yet. Now, should he have plied me with tequila one night, I might have slipped but that was totally the Patron effect - nothing to be taken to heart for future use.

Now I know he dates like a rampant fool. However, there's a gal who he's been seen with quite a bit, but she's not the only one. I even joked with him about it because, quite frankly, thanks to Facebook, I can't keep track of his lovelife. Its amusing (or at least to me). Her, well, let's just say before she even started hanging out with him, she was giving me the death glares. I don't have time for that crap. I also don't have time for her "friends" to be giving me the side eye when I'm hanging out at a favorite spot with some others. Leave that sorority shit at the door. She's one of those girls that I probably would make cry after one of my "Come to Jesus" sessions. Seriously, what the hell are people thinking - or, perhaps, I just got too old for the drama. Now if Meowmix was with me, well she'd really have a ball and there would have been some words. Let's just say that August will be rather interesting...

NEXT!

Blogging From 30,000 Feet....

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:45:00 +0000

Did you know that AirTran has wireless on their flights? I just recently learned that and, sure enough, my flight this morning to Philly is GoGo enabled. Yay! The one bright spot because, as to be expected, it was a comedy of errors starting with my lack of "get up and go" last night after dropping Wiggs off at his Daycare for his "vacation". I didn't rest last night because, well, with an early morning flight, I need to not oversleep. As I had to work yesterday, things just totally fell behind. So I cleaned my house, did laundry, worked on my closet - the stuff I can't do without Wiggs chasin' after me every 5 min. I even had to put together a new automatic waterer for the cat so it was busy but not super crazed. I didn't even pack until 4:30/5 this morning. I figured, eeeh - casual at best. However, yes, I did pack the Loubous in case I want to whap Rifleman or Ant upside the head. I figure the red sole should conceal any spatter, right? (I'm kidding - well, at least with Ant. *seriously praying that Rifleman lost the blog link*). It's been one of those months.

Then, this morning my attitude got riled up because my stupid credit card decided to "unilaterally shut down accounts" and give us new accounts. They say its "Bank prerogative", I think someone got hacked or had a security risk. Either way, the fact remains that I was not privy to this. Even worse is that I do not have my "new" card yet and guess what card is securing my car rental at Hertz. Yup - the old one that they decided was not active. Ugh. So, I sat on the phone screaming at Ben and Colin in India - two absolute imbeciles who didn't understand the phrase "Don't you DARE touch my account!" and the language barrier with both of the idiots was beyond evident. (Tribute - you get a big fat fail and, trust me when I say that you and I will have a come to Jesus meeting and you will hate me after it - of that I'm sure). In this economy, credit cards are having issues, sure, but for me, a fab customer, a little courtesy is seriously in order. Again - Tribute - FAIL!

Then I get to the airport annoyed as all hell to find out that my flight was delayed by 30 min. Finally - I caught a break and went to Starbucks to chill out for a hot second, call Hertz in Philly and find out how we were going to fix this mess (they had me log onto my account at the airport and change out my cards. Tribute - you SUCK! Oh - and for that you owe me $5.00). So, I figured, eeeh - I'm delayed - I got time. Well, I didn't have time because AirTran decided that we were, indeed, going to depart at 8:46. Oy to the vey. Armed with my Starbucks, I jumped on the plane and *boom* AirTran has wireless Internet. It is, however, too early to get a free cocktail. Perhaps on the ride home.

So, when I land I plan on doing not too much this afternoon. I have to stop by B. and Rifleman's joint to pick up tix to the RedSox/Phillies matchup for Sunday (Thanks Mel!), head to the hotel, mosey around Cherry Hill for a bit and then it's the Randori show. Tomorrow, my dad heads into Philly and we have some family stuff to attend to and he gets to see my fave city. It's changed a bit since my days in High School. There is so much to do and not enough time in the day - so as if I don't blog sporadically enough, y'all now know that I might or might not blog while running around Philly. It all depends on time. I'll be back on Monday, pick up Wiggs on Tuesday and then life is back to quasi normal - at least until August.

Other than that, what do you have planned for this weekend?

No Summer Break For The Weary...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:16:00 +0000

Or, in the alternative, Wiggs is going to school...

No, you read that right - Wiggs is going to enjoy the majority of his summer going to training school. I hit the end of my rope this morning. Every day it's something - he's chasing the cat at 4:30 in the morning. He won't do his business before work, often resulting in an accident in the house that greets me when I get home. He's the complex police, often distracted to see what everyone else is doing and his ADD kicks in. He tends to "puppy nip" people, not realizing his own strength, has been swiping TooJays fries from me and let's talk about his ambushing 3 year olds with kisses, scaring said child from ever petting him. His social graces are lacking, to say the least and when I took a behavioral exam to see where he fell in the "does he need training or not" test, he got a D.

My dad, ever the optimist said "Brandy [my childhood St. Bernard] got an F. He got a D. See, there's hope". Action was needed and I took matters into my own hands. There are only so many "BAD DOG" reprimands a gal can say before losing her damn mind.

So tonight I spent some time talking to a dog trainer and Wiggs is going back to school. I just wonder who's going to be trained more - me or Wiggs. Our first class is June 27th and it's 3 flippin' hours. Until then, I'm to keep an eye on the little monster and see where he needs help. I feel less on the brink of a breakdown after talking with the trainer - he seems like the Dog Whisperer of Altamonte so this should be good. However, he clued me in that pugs are VERY smart (and sneaky) so Wiggs best learn I'm wise to his kung fu.

Someone please send coffee - I'm going to need it.

Peaches & Cream With A Touch Of Arsenic...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:24:00 +0000

Don't ask me why but I love this interview

Anna Wintour: Behind the Shades

Watch CBS Videos Online

Moving... In Stilettos...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 02:42:00 +0000

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?

Listen To This: Evacuate The Dance Floor - Cascada...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Sun, 31 May 2009 16:17:00 +0000

One of my fave dance labels, Robbins, gave a heads up about the new
Cascada release. Check out her summer jam - Evacuate The Dance Floor. When I heard it, it made me think of driving to the Jerz shore with the windows down and music blaring...

Should be one hell of a summer for this gal's iPod...

Updates From Golf School Dorm Central And Why I Will Punch Someone In The Nose...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Mon, 18 May 2009 22:15:00 +0000

Over the weekend, there was a bit of an incident at the apartment complex which shall now be forever deemed as Golf School Dorm Central. There are so many golf students in our building that my neighbors and I have been losing our mind. The constant parties. The drunk screaming up and down the halls. The manly "bitch fights" outside at night. The scattered fast food littered in the hallways that brings the bugs. The multiple garbage bags of beer cans everywhere. This isn't even counting the spagetti and toilet paper in the bushes or the cat calls from each other's balconies. Seriously, it's enough to drive someone crazy.

We have a courtesy officer on premises and, while I do call him and have his number on speed dial, I still don't want to be the crazy old lady with the cardigan on the porch pounding my cane screaming "YOU G.D. WHIPPERSNAPPERS". I am trying to be nice (tho I wish Wiggy would lift his leg on a couple of them). Saturday night there was a scuffle about 3:00 in the morning. I won't call the courtesy officer past 1 am and figured it was more of their drunk shenanigans. See, the idiots in 312 are also "golf students" or, to quote someone in mgmt., someone who doesn't have to worry since mommy and daddy are footing the bill. One of them got drunk once and decided that since I took a parking space he wanted, then he had the right to call me the "C" word. My response was to berate him when he was sober. He's been respectful towards me ever since. Anywhoo - I digress. The point is - at 3ish, I heard the drunken b.s. coming from the direction of his apartment and the elevators. Eeehhh - Orlando's in the playoffs so I figured that it is what it is. That was until I heard *BAM* and it sounded like someone punched something pretty damn hard. Then more drunken b.s. Eeehh - whatever. I rolled over and went to sleep. I kept hearing bells in my sleep like the elevator opening and closing but figured that I was hearing things.

Crazy early Sunday morning, Wiggs is *poke poke poke* and doing his little "Mah I Gotta PEEEEEE" dance on the bed and making a mad dash for the door, giving me 2 minutes to get dressed. When he gets like this, I know there is no opportunity to roll over and resign myself to dealing with the early wake up call. I go to walk him and, as we get to the elevator, the door is opening and shutting, acting all crazy and I see what the *BAM* from the night before was: those sons of @*@*@* BROKE THE ELEVATOR PANEL - straight out punched it open Plastic and parts were scattered. It was a hot mess.

Now remember, when Wiggs first moved in, he had an insane fear of stairs and heights. He won't even go ON the balcony and trying to get him near the stairs - forget it. My guess is someone either dropped him as a pup from a huge height or played keep away at the college where he lived with his first owner who was too young to even take care of him. You can't even pick him up without him freezing and demanding "DOWN". It took six months of coaxing trying to teach him to trust me and that he no longer needed to hug the walls as he was walking.

Knowing that we couldn't use the elevator, I had to think quick and scooped him up, put him on my shoulder and trotted down the stairs. The dog had a massive panic attack. To go back upstairs - it was the same. Three times yesterday I did that, in the rain, etc. as I tried to console him and tell him what a brave boy he was. He would fight me trying to convince me that "Momma - we use elevator" but maintenance had already shut it down. There was no elevator and I kept telling him to be a big boy and trust me. It broke my heart to see him pawing at the elevator door, hugging it so I couldn't pick him up and make him walk up those bad stairs. Utterly heartbreaking - and the sounds coming from him, it was frightening - like he was hyperventilating.

I was PRAYING that I'd run into one of those fools from 312 because, even if it wasn't them - they are liable for the actions of their guests. In ONE day, by their dumb action of punching out the elevator panel and rendering it useless resulted in the undoing of SIX MONTHS of training my dog to trust me. In ONE day, my dog is now TERRIFIED to go outside should he fall while going down the stairs. In ONE day, their stupidity has affected EVERYONE in our building - especially the person on the second floor that uses a wheelchair, the mother of toddlers that has to now carry their stroller downstairs, plus her young children. Not to mention their utter lack of respect for their neighbors and our community.

As I told the complex manager today quite frankly I will not hold my tongue when I see any of those three fools. I'm pretty upfront as you all know and, as I joked with my friends, I will make those three azzhats cry by the time I'm through AND recommend that they move when the lease is out. If they don't like it, tough. I'll just whap them with my cane.

Giving Selflessly - Who Does That...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Mon, 18 May 2009 03:43:00 +0000

I know I've said a few times that I have some amazing friends. Well, one of them really has gone above and beyond and, while he never recognizes himself or what he does for people - it's time we did, right?

Let me tell you about CK. CK I knew from eons ago. He's one of the "nice guys" that any parent would be proud to call him their son in law, any friend would be blessed to have and family - fuhgetabouttit. He's loyal, caring and just fabulous. We won't even go into his "Joey Tribiani" impersonation *LOL*

I met him about 20 years ago on TheShowThatShallNotBeNamed. We kept in touch through the years. When I broke up with Mark for the umpteenth time, CK sent roses to my job on V-Day to cheer me up and keep my mind off of the azzhat. When I was contemplating moving here, CK encouraged me to follow my dreams. When I went through the typical b.s. with H., CK listened to me and gave me great advice. When I've been contemplating the next steps for my life, CK listened patiently and gave some great insight which helped me see that my decisions are on the right course. The man has been like a brother and don't even get me started on when I have a boy around CK and the boyz. That guy is vetted worse than a supreme court nominee. Oy vey! When I fly home to Philly, CK is always there with a hug, a cocktail and tons of laughter. CK is an amazing person - through and through. And, if you ever get the chance to hear his full story - you'd sit there in shock. He's gone through hell and back a few times but through it all, he has triumphed. Believe me when I say that the Philly crew is blessed to have him in our lives.

A few months ago, CK gave word that he was donating a kidney to a friend of his who was in dire need. He didn't even think twice - if someone needs something and he can help, so be it. The operation was put off a couple times due to complications but last week, CK gave a heads up that the operation was a go for Tuesday. So, I turn to you, my blog friends, and ask that you please take a moment out of your day and send good thoughts CK's way for the success of the operation for both him and his friend and a speedy recovery.

OurBuddy and CK

Chris - we love you!

Guilty of Idiocy: FedEx Longwood...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Sun, 17 May 2009 03:30:00 +0000

Normally, when it comes to shipping stuff, I have always preferred FedEx over UPS. Downtown Orlando - FedEx moves quickly, efficiently and I have little to NO drama. UPS - well, we have never gotten along - not in New Hampshire, not in Lake Buena Vista nor in Altamonte. However, when I prefer UPS over FedEx - you know there has got to be a problem.

There is one driver assigned to the route that my apartment complex is on and it has been that way since I moved here. I have had issue after issue with this driver and, sadly, while I make my displeasure known, the Longwood office won't do a damn thing about it.

One of the perks of living here is that we can sign an addendum to the lease where we give the complex the power to sign for packages. All he has to do is go to the office and drop it off. Easy peasy, I say. Does he - NO. He claims that they "aren't open". They are open from 10-6 every day so that's hogwash. This recent incident is the 5th time this s.o.b. has pulled the same "noone is in the office; noone is at the apartment" dance and, like I told the CSR at the call center in India or wherever, should I see that idiot of a driver, I'm going to have restrain myself from punching him in the nose. The call center knows I've called to have stuff escalated and I know they give messages to the manager of the Longwood branch. What does that spineless twit do - hand it off to a customer service rep. to handle. He is "too busy." I left a message for his regional boss to call me - crickets. And the issue has only gotten worse.

FedEx Longwood once tried to tell me that the reason for the "strain" on the drivers' workload" is that they were "on the Disney route". Longwood is NOWHERE near DISNEY. I'm not that dumb - the Lake Buena Vista office has that route. They've tried to tell me that the driver delivered packages to the office and I need to look again. However, it was NOT delivered as both myself and the complex manager went through each and every package and *boom* it wasn't there. I left a message for a call back first thing - which I got at NOON the next day. The spineless twit had a CSR call me to tell me that it was delivered on Friday and to look again. No, newsflash - it was delivered that Saturday morning, NOT Friday as the driver alleged. What was in the package - fresh pasta that needed to be refrigerated from FoodBuzz that I was to test for Cooking In Stilettos and, lo and behold, it was on the s.o.b.'s truck for 3 days. The ice packs were no longer chilly. It was warmer than a monkey's butt. Here's the kicker - when it was FINALLY delivered, the driver turned the box so it was hidden with the "refrigerate" and address labels facing the wall. That afternoon, when I opened it up and saw the fresh pasta just ruined, I about lost my damn mind. What does the spineless twit of a manager do - nothing.

Then, this week - I had something delivered that will be reviewed on Cooking In Stilettos - what does the same driver do - leaves a tag saying that noone was there and that he'd deliver it again, all while noting that there was noone in the complex office. Newsflash - they were in the complex office - especially at 1:00 in the afternoon. There's about 4-5 people in there at any given time. I about lost my damn mind on the poor kid from India who heard me out and agreed - there's a big problem.

Here's the problem - the driver is a lazy fool who not only doesn't deliver the packages as instructed, but he leaves them on his truck for a day or two, depending. He doesn't deliver at the time he says he does - the complex office confirmed that for me. He lies to his manager who tried to tell me that I was wrong. I'm sorry - I got to SOBE late because he "forgot to deliver" my cards in February and I had to take time out of my day the next day to go to the Longwood office first? Don't play me! I don't appreciate the Pass The Buck Mentality that occurs at the Longwood office and, when I had to go there today to pick up the package that should have been left at the office like UPS did with their package this week, I got nothing but bullshit excuses from the guy in the front who tells me "the station manager of course will call you back" but HE wouldn't take a message - told me to call the 1-800-FEDEX number and they would get the message to the station manager. WHAT THE #*@*@*#* What a bunch of lazy ignorant fools is my opinion of the FedEx Longwood office. Clearly, the manager and the employees at the Longwood station are all the same - too lazy to do their job CORRECTLY so, therefore, hopefully the corporate office will finally open its eyes to the crap going on there and make changes.

Enough, for cryin' out loud, is enough. And it really sucks when I have to tell people "if you need to ship something to me, please use UPS because FedEx in Longwood is a bunch of idiots."

Clearly, I've given them too many chances and now it's war. FedEx Longwood - CLEAN UP YOUR ACT!

More Flashback Fun...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Thu, 14 May 2009 21:54:00 +0000

It FINALLY works *evil giggle* I'm a rebellious bish and so happy that I found this (Thanx Jas!)

Ahhh - yes, that's OurBuddy holding up the record but here's a little clip of Sweet Sensation performing on a certain show that will NOT be named...

I think it's time to go back home for a little R&R...

Bravo - Are You Kiddin' Me??

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Wed, 13 May 2009 04:07:00 +0000

I caught the Real Housewives of NYC reunion, but had to watch the Real Housewives of New Jersey and, quite frankly, I have a few issues. It's like Bravo cherry picks the worst of the worst and while the familial ties are tight and I like that better than some of the other cast interactions on other seasons, I don't get the casting of Danielle (hello - did you NOT learn from all things Real Housewives of ATL and Sheree's lack of divorce settlement?) who needs her divorce settlement to "survive" and reminds me of the plastic surgery gal - Catwoman or whatever. OHHHHHH - let's talk about Teresa - "There's something with the economy so I pay cash" as she goes to pay for $120k in furniture for a house that you HAD to have built because living in someone's house is "skeevy" and you need a French chalet in quartz, onyx and marble. Honey - you pay CASH? C'mon now. This gal was NOT born yesterday. But then again, your hubby works "construction" and you think he's "delicious and juicy". I'm sorry - I think my eyes rolled into the back of my head. Not to mention you say you "aren't a stagemom". Honey - YES you are. Most definitely you are but whatever. The only one I kinda think is "normal" is Caroline. She's no nonsense which is common with Jerz girlz.

So, IN MY OPINION, I'm thinking that it should be named Real Housewives - Soprano style... but it's a trainwreck that I'll watch again. Hey - we're in a recession - a gal needs a giggle.

Tuesday Throwback...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Tue, 12 May 2009 04:40:00 +0000

Seeing pics from Jen Lancaster's Pretty In Plaid book tour has me a bit nostalgic for all things 80s...

Forgive me for subjecting you to all things Aquanet, blue eyeliner and sometimes horrifying fashion, but I couldn't help it. Plus - I just got word that George Lamond will be in OTown in a couple weeks so that also made me a bit nostalgic for some freestyle too.

First up... TKA when they showed up at Dorney Park (Kayel got everything branded *LOL* K - that will piss off BigBro, ya know)

Just for MB - a little flashback. Dude - can you tell Gene "Batman, seriously?"

A classic 80s track, a little Pseudo Echo to get the morning engines revvin'...

What's on your iPod this morning?

Ahhhh - Windows Live Writer - Where Have You Been All My Life...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Mon, 11 May 2009 02:26:00 +0000

Things are still all willy nilly 'round these parts but thanks to Judy at No Fear Entertaining, I discovered the wonders of all things Window LiveWriter. Finally, all those draft posts I have in my head I can finally get out and publish.

The wonders of technology...

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

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Tue, 05 May 2009 22:39:00 +0000

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.

Wiggs' First Battle Wound...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Tue, 05 May 2009 02:00:00 +0000

Saturday, Wiggs had to go to the Vet's office for his monthly "butt squeeze" (where they fix his anal glands). Normally, its quick - we head in first thing in the morning, the techs know and adore him so they rush him in and once we're out the door, he's convincing me that "Momma - we really need to go to McDonalds" (I justify it as he's got his butt squeezed and it's not pleasant for him OR the tech - that's okay for a piece of sausage, right? Plus I need ice coffee). We are always told "No appointment - come early as a walk-in and we'll make it fast."

Sadly, this Saturday, it was going to be a long day. Not only was my LEAST favorite tech on duty (she's just nasty, cranky and mean - if I could bitch slap her I would. Such a bitter pill that woman.) It was also a busy waiting room as there were a couple other dogs hanging out. Wiggs, knowing that small dogs attack him (Napoleon complex much??), rushed over to a woman there with her pit bull and her retriever and Wiggs wanted to make instant friends. If there's anything he loves, it's other dogs. He even got all excited when one of those hotdogesque dogs came by and, once the hot dog saw Wiggs, it dropped on his back like "Look at MAH Belli!" and they were BFFs. One of the fellow rescue peeps came in with a new pug and those two were inseparable. It was cute. Now, sure there was the occasional "ARUUUUU" as the dogs barked and howled like they were singing campfire songs but it wasn't ear shattering. Bitter Pill would always look at Wiggs like he had NO social skills and, quite frankly, he doesn't. He knows sit, stay but if he sees someone that he can give a kiss or a snug to, he's off and running. And, yes, I'm a bad dog momma because - well - I kinda indulge him. He's around a cat who goes from hot to cold and is still not his friend. So if he can get a little dog interaction, good for him. As long as he doesn't pee on the chairs, we're good.

Well, one of the people brought their dog out who had a Elizabethan collar on. Knowing that the Elizabethan collar dog might have issues, I told Wiggs - NO NOSY! which, to him means, be nice but no sniffin' all over the place. Well, that other dog - we'll call him/her Bitchy, decided that they just wanted NOTHING to do with Wiggs and bit my pug on the nose.

Wiggs backed away in shock, like he was trying to process what happened and he was still wagging his tail. Clearly, he's the sweet one of the family. I see blood and start pulling him away, shooting the dog's parents a look like "WHAT THE @*@*#*#*@" You would think I would get at least an "I'm Sorry" after they asked - "Did he get bit?" HELL YES WIGGLES GOT BIT YOU AZZHAT! They knew their dog was a mean ass bitch and no warning? What. The. #*@*@*. Hello - your dog just tried to bite off my PUG'S NOSE!!!!

Sharon, the rescue volunteer, and I are trying to look at the battle wound and cheer up the poor pug who now is bleeding and has tears welling up in his eyes - Flying out of the office comes Bitter Pill pointing to me going "You - YOU AND THAT DOG NEED TO GO IN EXAM ROOM 4. NOW!"

Guess we got our azzes banished. Well, fine - Wiggs thinks he's in trouble due to her tone and, as I shoot Bitter Pill a look of death, I just pulled him away while grabbing some napkins to take a look see. 45 min. later, one of his techs comes in and apologizes for the delay. Thankfully the wound is just superficial but, as they said, they'd have put something on it but Wiggy would have just licked it off regardless. He gets his butt fixed, goes through his routine of giving her hugs and kisses like he always does and trots proudly out of our holding cell. He even makes friends with a little girl who only wants to pet him. What is Bitter Pill doing - shaking her head and giving me death glare again.

We won't even get into when I checked out and Bitter Pill acted like she was so put out to actually - I dunno - give me the flea meds but I will say this. Next month, if Bitter Pill is on shift, I'm going to request someone else. I REFUSE to let her talk to my dog in ANY tone and, quite frankly, I will set her on her #*@*@*#*# behind. I know my parents taught me to respect my elders but with her behavior to a DOG, she doesn't deserve my respect.

And if I EVER see those dog parents again, I'm going to also tell them to muzzle that mutt. Because if BitchyCollarDog ever goes near my pug again, it's ON. That dog can take his/her napoleon attitude and suck it.

Wiggs, however, has realized the power of the "Boo Boo" and, yes, while he got his McDs, he also whines to show me his nose and how he needs a cookie.

I've created a monster, I know. :::sigh:::

For The LOVE of God...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Mon, 04 May 2009 05:12:00 +0000

Will the news media shut UP about Casey Anthony - seriously. Every. Single. DAY there's something about this woman and that case.

Be warned - I'm on my soapbox.

So this chick's lawyer is now filing some motion to change venue in the morning as the defense feels the jury pool is "tainted". YOU THINK? She also seems to think that she'll get a fair trial from a different county? Give. Me. A. Break. Her (IMO) MediaHungry parents (who seem to give "exclusive comments every. other. day - *growl*) have made this so "in the forefront" that she won't get "her version" of what her and her team deam "a fair trial" anywhere.

Now - let me state for the record, this is just my opinion but, quite frankly, I'm so over this case already. I feel horrible for her dad and all but when her mother, Cindy, makes a comment that she decided to go on a morning show because it was "more ethical" than Oprah. Yeah, she's a fine one to talk. Hmmm.. how interesting considering that her deposition tape was supposedly sent to Oprah's offices by the civil attorney that deposed her lyin' behind or so a news station mentioned one morning.

Oprah's people decided they wouldn't go through with the interview -my guess is because Cindy tends to welcome cameras everywhere and anywhere. I just want this woman's 15 min. of fame to be over already and justice to be done.

There are other children that are missing in Florida and, sadly, they aren't getting the type of attention this @*@*#$*@*@* case is getting. Enough is enough already.

*jumps off soapbox*

UGH!

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

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Mon, 04 May 2009 03:07:00 +0000

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.

Flat Irons Tips to Keep Hair Looking Healthy

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Mon, 04 May 2009 02:43:00 +0000

Flat Irons Tips to Keep Hair Looking Healthy

Flat irons for hair that are on the market today can deliver truly amazing results. Products like the Maxiglide hair straightener can detangle hair and preserve moisture, while the Infrashine hair straightener and the Bio Ionic flat iron can actually boost shine. While these are great products that won’t fry your hair like the flatirons of yesteryear, you have to remember that they can still cause damage if they aren’t used properly. Healthy hair is just something that is at the top of my list and, of course, I’m sure it’s on the top of yours too. After all, you have to admit that there is nothing quite as unattractive as fried, broken, and dull tresses. That just might warrant a What Not To Wear intervention with Nick and Carmindy in the lead, right? Whether your hair is extremely curly or can be straightened in a snap, here are some flat iron tips that will keep your hair looking its best.

Tip #1: Turn Down the Heat for Curly Hair

For those who already have hair that is relatively straight, using a flat iron to smooth and straighten hair is usually quick and easy. Curly hair, however, can pose more of a challenge. Some flat iron tips you’ll find online will tell women with curly hair that they should turn the heat way up to get the results they want. (Hello - guilty as charged!!!) This isn’t a great idea, however, for women who want to keep hair healthy. Curly hair can be quite dry, and applying excessive heat can cause a lot of damage. So, avoid cranking the heat. Instead, make sure you have a flat iron made for unruly hair, such as the Maxiglide hair straightener. It’s specially designed to detangle curly hair, and it uses steam instead of potentially damaging heat to straighten curly, frizzy, and generally unruly locks.

Tip #2: Flat Irons for Hair Need Breaks Too!

I learned that today’s flat irons are much easier on hair than the products of years ago. The Infrashine hair straightener, for example, is touted for making hair look shinier and more conditioned. But don’t be fooled by that shine. You have to remember that using a flat iron every single day will eventually dry out and damage your hair. So be kind to your tresses. Give your flat iron a break on the weekends or over vacation, and give your hair a few days to recover.

Tip #3: Avoid Going Over the Same Piece Again and Again…and Again

Some flat iron tips will tell you to keep going over the same piece of hair until it is perfectly straight. Going over the same section five times or more, however, is a recipe for disaster because it is more likely to result in damage to your hair. (Yes, I’m guilty of this too!) If you’re using a good product like a Bio Ionic flat iron, there’s no reason why you should have to go over hair this many times. Remember, you want your hair straight, not dull and flat. Two, three, or four passes (at most!) should be enough for even extremely curly hair.

The Maxiglide hair straightener, Infrashine hair straightener, and Bio Ionic flat iron will give you the smooth, shiny, and ultra-straight hair you want. Just be sure to follow these tips to avoid damage and keep it looking healthy too.

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

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 22:03:00 +0000

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:::

Oh Hot Damn - This Is My Jam...

justanothagal@gmail.com (Lys) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 22:00:00 +0000

I am a fan of the remix. Sure, here in Orlando one can listen to big corporate radio logo where they program the music in Texas regardless of what is hot in EACH market *cough cough* I'm not commenting on what I'm really thinking after my dealings with them in the past *cough cough* but in all reality, I prefer to keep my stations to those that aren't as corporate or even better - remixes from some seriously great DJS. I've been fortunate to deal with some killer

One of the DJs I adore is DJ Riddler - one of the nicest DJs I ever had to deal with back in the day. I think I waxed poetic on his crew's remix of my new summer theme song - Livvi Franc's "Now I'm That Bitch" (which, btw - Rich was nice enough to tell me y'all can pick it up at RatedH.net.) Well, if you are a fan of a good mix that will get you movin' around - his crew Booth Pimps give a monthly remix out for download and oh-em-gee this month's remix is SIZZLING hot!

You can find all the download intel over at the BoothPimps site here. All I can say is this mix will be blarin' from the car as I'm flyin' to work.

...All I Wanna Do Is Zooma Zoom Zoom ...