A Rant About Poor Customer Service

OK....now that I am in my 50's I have long arm syndrome...that condition that effects your vision to the point where you need to hold your reading material out as far as your arm extends in the effort to read it. So, I wear glasses. What is posted below is a response to my recent interactions with Lens Crafters over a pair of glasses I purchased in February and have broken twice. Oh my.....where has decent customer service gone??? I must apologize up front, what you will read is not my best piece of writing, but an immediate response while in a pi**ed off mood.

To Whom It May Concern:

A pair of glasses purchased in February broke for the second
time...hinge spring broke. The representative in the store told me it was
because I was taking them off improperly. She told me I could replace them
at 50% off another pair. I asked her to direct me to the least expensive
pair and was told the ones I selected would cost me $150. I paid $190 for
the first pair. (The sales person told me I had "gotten a bargain.") What
does that have to do with anything? So, within a span of 6 months I would spend
$340 on basic glasses. I felt that since I have not had this experience
with other glasses I have worn over the last 20 years, that the issue may have
been with defective frames and I questioned why I would have to pay for
something defective. She told me it was store policy. I declined
the offer and called your headquarters on 8/16 and was told the store manager
would call me within 24-48 hours. I received a call today, 5 DAYS LATER
from the assistant manager. Since I need my glasses to read, I obviously
needed to get the problem taken care of someplace else, which I did. I
think the asst. manager's intention was to replace the frames if she had them in
stock. However, I had already gotten another pair since I need to
see. This was too little, too late. Maybe the first rep. in the
store should have checked with her manager in the first place. Maybe the
manager should have called me in a timely fashion. So, in the end, Lens
Crafters has $190 of my money ( oh yes...what a bargain) and I have a pair of
glasses that can't be worn and learned from a Lens Crafters representative that
I need to learn how to take off my glasses. In my opinion, I don't think
customer satisfaction is one of Lens Crafters concerns and I will be sharing my
opinon with my family, friends and those who like to follow my blog.

OK, my rant is over. I'm not sure whether or not I will receive a response, but at least I shared my opinion with them. Oh yeah....I did buy a really cute pair of glasses, at a very reasonable price at Walmart!! The ladies working in the optical department couldn't have been more courteous, helpful and friendly.

Happy Spring.....Goodbye Winter!

Is it true? Could it possible be??? The winter is over!! No more snow, slush, cold and shoveling!! Spring is here and it couldn't have come soon enough.

Much of the nation was pummled this winter, and here on the east coast it was especially brutal. Those of us who are in education know that a heavy snow signals a "snow day." Kids love it, and I must admit, as a teacher I, too, enjoy the occasional day off in the middle of the winter. However, this year's blasts blessed us with 5 snow days! Now they must be made up; so what would have been a spring break for many is turning into a spring weekend instead. Never mind though...the weather forcast is simply glorious and I am thrilled. As I write this post, I am sitting out on my deck, enjoying the spring breeze.

As far as my business, Lunar Radiance, is concerned, spring also is the signal for an introduction of new wicking sleepwear. This year I have one new addition and new colors to refresh some favorite wicking nightgowns and wicking pajamas.

WHAT IS NEW? The Morgan wicking tank nightgown (pictured right)coming in passion pink and heather blue, it is absolutely perfect for those warm, summer nights that are just around the corner. Click Here to check it out! Say "nightie, night" to night sweats!

Two of our longtime favorties, the Colleen wicking capri set and the Dee Dee wicking nightshirt have been released in two fresh colors--sweet heather blue and passion pink! You won't want to miss those either!

It's almost time for those barbecues and family reunions. Looking for a great invitation that is reasonably priced and will knock your guests socks off? Check these out! So easy to personalize they look like you spent a fortune. All you need to do is type in your information and you are done! SIMPLE-FUN-ADORABLE!

Floral Family Reunion Party Invitations by NightSweatsDiva
4th of July Party Invitations by NightSweatsDiva

A Routine Mammogram Leads to Six Weeks of Hell

Ten days before Christmas, my best friend and I went together for our routine mammograms. I am embarrassed to admit, mine was way overdue. Our plan was to take late afternoon appointments, then have dinner and do some Christmas shopping. Since it was late in the afternoon, there was no immediate read by a radiologist, so we were sent on our way. After the mammogram, I had an immediate feeling of uneasiness. Two days later I received the call that all women dread; more films needed because of an irregularity bilaterally. Both? I was sickened.

Knowing myself and how crazy I would become if I waited, I took the first appointment the next day to have a compression mammogram to be followed by ultrasound if necessary. I sat and waited quietly for what seemed an eternity only to find that I did indeed need the ultrasound. Performed immediately, it suddenly dawned on me that within the next 15 minutes I would have very good idea as to whether or not I had breast cancer. Both of the technicians who worked with me were kind and professional. There was very little speaking which to me made it even more surreal. I searched their eyes for a clue as to what the answer was; but they are well schooled and gave no hints.

Finally, the radiologist came in, did her own quick ultrasound and stated that with 99% certainty I had fibroadenomas in both breasts. I know that fibroadenomas are benign I had one in my early twenties. I was breathing a huge sigh of relief, but in the back of my mind I was worried about that one percent. Next step was a breast surgeon.

Taking the recommendation of two colleagues, I choose a well known breast surgeon in Philadelphia, Dr. Dahlia Sataloff, associated with one of the major teaching hospitals. Again, I was struck by the total silence in the waiting room. No one even makes eye contact. When my name was called, I looked up from the magazine on which I was trying to focus to see the doctor herself waiting to greet me. When has that ever happened? I knew immediately I had found the right person for me. After a consultation, exam and view of my films she too concurred that she believed both lumps to be fibroadenomas. However, a biopsy would be needed to be certain. More time spent waiting.

The internet can be a double edged sword. A plethora of information is at our finger tips, but as we all know, a little bit of knowledge can be dangerous. I did my reading to prepare for the core needle biopsy, but in truth, there was little that could be done to alleviate my anxiety. It is true, the procedure itself, is relatively pain free. The mass in my right breast was deeply imbedded close to the chest wall, so I did experience discomfort. The left was done with nothing more than a pinch from the lidocain injection, BUT THE NOISE. Each time a piece is taken the machine makes a noise that reminded me of the dentist's office. A little pressure is put on the site where the needle is inserted, and steri-strips are applied and you are good to go and wait some more. In my case it was only 48 hours. The diagnosis confirmed with a phone call from Dr. Sataloff....BENIGN. I will see my surgeon again after 6 months for a follow up and additional mammograms.

I am lucky, grateful and I must admit still apprehensive. It is a bit unsettling to know that I still have two masses in my breasts. There is much discussion about whether the biopsy really samples everything. Back in the day, when I had my first experience, technology and medicine were not as sophisticated and the immediate line of treatment was surgery.

I am haunted by this experience. It's been a couple of weeks now and I still think about it every day. I think about the women who receive a different result and it seems that no matter where I turn, someone else I know is being diganosed. Maybe it is just my age, 51 that makes me more aware of the frailty of the human body.

Post Script: I would be remiss if I did not send a universal thank you to the radiologist, technicians and staff at the Women's Imaging Center of Pennsylvania Hospital for their compassion, kindness, patience and professionalism on a very difficult day. Also....big thanks to my family, friends and colleagues for lots of hugs and support. (Especially Lee)

I

World's Softest Spa Socks are Back!

Back by popular demand......The World's Softest Spa Socks! They are ultra soft and super luxurious. These are the perfect stocking stuffer and the perfect accessory for any of Lunar Radiance's wicking nightgowns or wicking pajamas!

To make it even better, FREE SHIPPING is still in effect, but not for long!

CLICK HERE to shop for your favorite hot lady! Help her say "Nightie, night" to night sweats!"

FREE SHIPPING ON WICKING SLEEPWEAR!

I love being able to pass along holiday savings and what woman doesn't like to take advantage!! I do. I scour the internet and daily circulars for the best deals. My favorite deal is free shipping and that is what I have for you.

All wicking pajamas and wicking nightgowns will ship for free when you shop at Lunar Radiance.

Do you have a baby boomer family member or friend who tosses and turns night after night because she is suffering from night sweats? Give her a gift that is not only attractive and comfortable, but will bring the relief she so deserves.

Click here to see for yourself how fashion and function merge to bring the ultimate relief!

ZAZZLE OFFERS FREE SHIPPING TOO! 12/5/09

You can also take advantage of free shipping at my Zazzle stores too! Great, easy to personalize, postage, holiday cards, gifts, party invitations and more. If you haven't been there yet, you won't want to miss it!

Christmas Photo Mug by WinterHolidayGifts

50th Birthday Party Personalized Invitation by NightSweatsDiva

Have You Purchased Your Holiday Cards?

Have you purchased your holiday cards yet? How about your party invitations?

You can purchase your favorite party invitations, photo cards and seasonal greeting cards at a whopping 50% off when you purchase ten or more cards. We all know that's not hard to do!!

And.....don't forget the matching postage too! Visit my Zazzle store by clicking here or on any product link below! Don't miss out on these great deals! Enter 12dealscards at checkout.

Festive Personalized Holiday Party Invitation by WinterHolidayGifts
Sparkling Christmas Tree Photo Card by WinterHolidayGifts

Christmas Card for Friend by WinterHolidayGifts

Happy Black Friday! Wicking Sleepwear on Sale!

THE COUNTDOWN IS OVER!

Black Friday is here and so is an awesome chance to scoop up your favorite wicking pajamas, wicking nightgowns and wicking pillow cases at a discount!

10% OFF ALL ORDERS OVER $39.99

Just enter promo code Holiday09 at checkout!

Wicking sleepwear makes the perfect gift for yourself or someone else who suffers from night sweats due to menopause, peri-menopause, cancer treatments or medications. Whoever receives one of our soft, comfy nightgowns or pj sets will be one happy lady! Sale is on through Cyber Monday, but quantities are limited. Treat your favorite baby boomer woman.

Say "Nightie, Night" to Night Sweats!

One Week and Counting

Keep your eyes peeled and check back here for details on Lunar Radiance's Black Friday Special Discount. All of our fabulous wicking pajamas and wicking nightgowns will be discounted just in time for the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Have you seen our newest nightgown? Our soft, ruffle wicking nightgown is made of the finest wicking fabric that you have come to know and love. Click Here to read more...and it's only $44.99!!

This will be the perfect opportunity to let your family or friends say "Nightie, night" to night sweats in comfort and style! They will love you for it!!

Bio Identical Hormones - Sotto Pelle Anyone?

I was having a discussion with my female colleagues today regarding my newest menopausal symptoms. Two of them shared that they have begun a course of bioidentical hormones called Sotto Pelle. These two women swear that they have experienced an abundance of relief for various symptoms. I am wondering if any of you have any experience with Sotto Pelle and what is your opinion. Please share...I am sure I am not the only one who will benefit. Thanks ladies!

Is Divorce Ever Equitable?

Let me begin by saying that I am not a divorce lawyer and any experience I have in this arena is strictly personal experience; both my own and experience via observation of my friends, colleagues and acquaintances. That being said, this blog entry may be a bit emotional and yes a bit angry.]

A friend of mine is currently going through a divorce. After 24 years of marriage, her husband found the company of a 25 year old and her small child more appealing than the life he had built with his wife and their two sons. Ok, ok it's the same old song and dance. Most of us have heard this tale more than we care to admit. After a little over a year and a half of pain, humiliation, anger and a host of other emotions, the time has come for the end. Now is the time that their 24 years of marriage is reduced to dollar signs and possessions.

In the state of New Jersey, divorce is all about equitable distribution. The definition of equitable is "characterized by equity or fairness; just and right; fair; reasonable." At her mediation the other day, this 51 year old baby boomer, who has worked diligently in education for the last 27 years, while raising her two sons and contributing more than her "fair share" during the course of her marriage was informed that she would most likely be surrendering between 45 and 50% of her pension to the man whose actions deleted a history just as easily as pushing the delete button on the computer. His employement over the years has not yielded much in the way of pension. Oh yeah, and let's not forget that she will need to sell her house of 20 years too to pay him his share. Call me crazy, but this just doesn't seem "equitable!" Not only has her life past and present been shattered, her future is shattered as well.

It is hard to comfort my friend on her down days. She is hurt, pissed and often afraid. To tell you the truth, I am pissed for her. Is the moral of the story screw whomever you want, literally and figuratively, but it will be OK? How can it be that in 2009 it is still the woman who suffers more financially as a result of divorce? How nice for him to know that his future is secure so that he can begin his new life in peace. That seems "equitable" doesn't it?

World Menopause Day Means $5 Off Wicking Sleepwear!

HAPPY WORLD MENOPAUSE DAY LADIES!!! World Menopause Day is not a new event. It was started way back in 1984, though it is still relatively unheard of. Started by the International Menopause Society and the World Health Organization, World Menopause Day's original purpose was to bring increased awareness to menopause.

Menopause changes a woman’s quality of life and more importantly puts her at increased risk for osteoporosis, breast cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Let's not forget hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, depression, sleep problems, itchiness and a host of other symptoms that were once thought to be only "in the head" of the transitional woman. It is important to understand the risk factors associated with these conditions and how these conditions can be treated.

This once undiscussed topic has now come into focus and is open for discussion for more and more women with each other, and their physicians as well. Just Google "menopause" and you will find an abundance of websites and information.

In honor of World Menopause Day, Lunar Radiance is offering $5.00 off all wicking sleepwear purchases of $20.00 or more. We are doing our part to help you say "Nightie, night" to night sweats!!

Happy Columbus Day - It's Our 14.92% Sale!

You can't open a newspaper or look at your local circulars without finding a ton of Columbus Day weekend specials. Lunar Radiance wants to get in on the fun too!

All day today (Sunday) and tomorrow, all purchases of wicking pajamas and wicking nightgowns will receive a discount of 14.92% on purchases of $39.99 or more. All you need to do is enter promo code COLUMBUS09 at checkout. It's that easy. So pick something new, grab another one of your favorites and be prepared to sleep in cool, dry comfort! Say "Nightie night, night sweats." CLICK HERE now! Spread the word to you baby boomer and menopausal friends!
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My Zazzle store NightSweatsDiva, is also having a 14.92% sale. Grab your Halloween goodies at a fabulous price. Adorable tee shirts, goodie bags, mugs, stickers, postage, greeting cards and more!

Personalized Halloween Tote Bag by NightSweatsDiva

Halloween Card...customize w/your message by NightSweatsDiva

All Purchases 14.92% Off Thru Monday!

Potpourri

I am always reading about baby boomers, menopause, night sweats and generally all information that pertains to those of us who are living in this transitional period. I came across a plethora of articles, but these three stood out because they resonated with me since I had actually engaged in conversations about these topics this week.

First up deals with depression and menopause. Did you know that the risk for major depression more than doubles while women are going through menopause and afterward? Have you been wondering if it's "just you?" Click here to read more.

Boomers around the country are talking retirement around the water cooler. The baby boomers have three important questions before them: Have they had enough? Do they have enough? Will they have enough to do? What about you? Click here to read more.

I'd like to say I saved the best for last.....NOT! However, I couldn't pass it by. Women who add more fat to their bodies as they approach menopause will have a harder time with hot flashes and night sweats. (thank heavens for wicking sleepwear!) Research is showing that these weight gains, which are often common during menopause, may actually contribute to a worsening of symptoms. Click here to read more.

Do you have a topic or blog of interest that you think is worth sharing? Let me know!

Fall Is Upon Us

The heat of the summer is over and fall is upon us. I, for one, am thrilled. Maybe a little cooler weather will take some of the heat out of those hot flashes!! Speaking of hot flashes...within the next two weeks, Lunar Radiance will be revealing new wicking sleepwear to fight those night sweats....always love that. In the meantime, it's time to turn to some fall festivities that are upon us and prepare!

Halloween is always a fun time to dress up, decorate and send entertaining greeting cards. Over at my Zazzle store, NightSweatsDiva, I have been busy creating many new greeting cards, Halloween postage stamps, trick or treat bags, tee shirts and so much more. Below are just a few samples, but there is so much that I can't fit everything here. The best part.....You Can Personalize almost everything and have you never have to leave your house!!

Teachers, baby boomer grandparents, moms and dads need to pay a visit, and check back often because new additions are being made every day.

Personalized Halloween Tote Bag by NightSweatsDiva

Halloween Novelty Mug by NightSweatsDiva

Halloween Postage Stamps by NightSweatsDiva

Halloween Stickers by NightSweatsDiva

Halloween Party Invitation by NightSweatsDiva

P.S......Have a bride to be in your family? Have her click here. She will love, love, love it!

Boomer Birthday Cards

Hello Fellow Boomers....
Just wanted to share some new and unique birthday cards for you to send to your fellow boomer friends who are celebrating the BIG 5-0 Enjoy!

Happy 50th Birthday Card by NightSweatsDiva

Happy 50th Birthday for a Baby Boomer Woman by NightSweatsDiva

Happy 50th Birthday for a Baby Boomer Woman by NightSweatsDiva

Would you like a customized card? Just send me an email to lunarradiance@aol.com

What Has Happened to My Decollete?

Maybe it's my turning 51, maybe it's my being perimenopausal, but all of a sudden I have become obsessed with the little lines and wrinkles on my face. You know...those little lines of character, that lovingly tell the story of our life experiences. OH PLEASE!!! They are wrinkles....aging skin creases that make me look old and I don't like them. And....how about that decollete!! All of a sudden I can't stop looking at it. It's not that it is wrinkly, it just looks, well, weathered. That would be the best way to describe it.

I have now joined the ranks of thousands of women who are looking for just the right combination of cleanser, moisturizer, serums etc. to help us battle father time. There are 11,000 baby boomers turning 50 every day and it is projected that there will be a $12 billion increase in money spent on anti-aging products and supplements in the next year and a half alone. Wow!! Those of us who either choose to refrain from costly cosmetic procedures or simply don't want to shell out the bucks for botox, are most certainly spending some serious cash on skincare.

Most recently, Monday to be exact, I started a new regime using a new product line called Striking. According to the literature, I should begin to see firmer skin, a reduction in the appearance of of fine lines and wrinkles, smoother skin, and an overall improvement in the appearance of my skin in as little as 14 days. I can also use it on my weathered decollete!! The system is a simple 4 step program consisting of a creamy cleanser, serum, eye cream and moisture cream.

What is their secret you may be asking....PEPTIDES.....patented "Smart Peptides" Now this is where it gets scientific, so I will let you see and listen for yourself at an short informational video on YouTube. Just click here for a little education on the product. I did because I wanted to know what made this different from other anti-aging products. Plus, when I'm going to lay down some cash I like to be educated.

It's too soon for results but I can tell you one thing I love about Striking already.....NO SCENT! None of the products smell. The cleanser is very creamy as is the eye cream and the moisturizer. I'm not usually a creamy cleanser kind of girl, but this is ok. It feels good. Since my skin tends to be oily, I do not need to slather on the creams, so a little goes a long way. I would guess that even dry skin would not need too much. No break outs, no irritations, so far I am good to go. AND....if this gets the decollete in shape, I will be a lifetime lover!

Sorry....I'm too vein to post a stripped down before version of my face, but I will keep you posted on my findings!

Is Social Media For You?

As a 51 year old woman, I am rather slow to pick up on the social media craze. However, because of my wicking sleepwear business, Lunar Radiance, I have been somewhat forced to take a close look and jump in. I must admit, I have been rather slow at it, but little by little I am starting to enjoy it.

While I do have a Facebook page, my favorite form of social media is Twitter. It is free and rather simple. Sign up, select your twitter user name and you are set to go. Take some time to fill out your profile, and play with the different settings and backgrounds to find one that you like. You can even upload your own image for a more customized background.

Next, you will want to find some people to follow who have the same interests. Maybe you are Twittering for business or you have a hobby. Click on "find people" and type your topic in the box that asks "Who are you looking for?" For example, I am always interested in internet marketing, so that's what I searched. What you will find is a list of people who share the same interest. Read their profile, and if you want, start to follow them. Try to pick Tweeps who have currently been active. Usually after you start following them, they will follow you back. You can accept or reject requests to be followed. Take a look at who is following the Tweeps you have selected and start following them too. That's how it becomes viral! It really is quite fun, and doesn't take much time.

Each time you login to your Twitter account, you will see what your "Tweeps" have been Twittering about. I follow Women's Health Magazine. Today one of their tweets was a link to an article about customizing your own workout. I checked it out and found it helpful since I am always looking for ways to slim down my thighs and keep my workouts fresh! Here is the link http://www.womenshealthmag.com/files/customize-your-workout/index.html

Don't be fearful! It is quite fun, but it can be addictive! Check it out and when you do, I hope you follow me on Twitter! Click on the link below to follow me!

New Wicking Sleepwear Products at Lunar Radiance

Our two newest products are here and they are made of soft, cool, naturally wicking bamboo!

** Bamboo is a fabric which is incredibly soft and comfortable.
** Bamboo is naturally anti-microbial helping to control odors and hypoallergenic.
** Bamboo provides superior natural wicking capabilities.
** Bamboo is environmentally friendly; it is the fastest growing plant in the world and is an easily renewable resource.

These two new products offer style and comfort at a reasonable price!

Wicking Capri PJ's $52.99 - CLICK HERE

Wicking Nightgown $39.99 - CLICK HERE

Say "Nightie, night" to nightsweats with our wicking sleepwear!

Americans Must Pay Attention

I rarely write on political issues. However, as a mother of a recent graduate, who is facing difficulties finding a job; a mother of a child who will graduate from college within the next 4 years, and as a baby boomer who has worked as a teacher for 30 years and would like to see her medical benefits and pension intact, I have to write.

I have my own opinions about Obama, the stimulus, the proposed food and beverage taxes and the proposed healthcare plan, and I will keep them to myself. What I would like to do is encourage people to educated themselves on these pressing issues and contact your Congressmen and Senators to let them know how you feel.

Looking for additional information? Here are some websites and articles that I have found that may be of interest:

• Nationalized Health Care Pros and Cons - Click Here
• Lawmakers Warned About Health Costs - Click Here
• House Healthcare Plan to Add to Deficit: Analysts -Click Here
• Americans Against Food Taxes - Click Here

Sunday Morning News Just For Us

Good Morning Everyone. Today's post revisits an idea I had when I first started blogging. I have gathered some current info. that is pertinent to women of boomer age, and put it here in one place for you to peruse. Have a great day!

• More Women Seek Nonprescription Remedies For Menopause Symptoms - How do you treat your menopause symptoms? This article discusses the growing popularity of over the counter treatments.
• Having Babies After Menopause - Does this sound appealing to you? This article discusses with author Natalie Angier, issues surrounding women's aging and the positive effects that having children after menopause may have on the societal perceptions of women. ....interesting article, but I'm not sold!
• Exercise Tips to Keep Boomers on Their Feet - Do you have a regular fitness routine? Are you finding more aches and pains as a result of your exercise these days? This short article discusses simple precautions boomers can take to keep themselves on the exercise trail with a minimal amount of discomfort.
• How to Keep Your Brain Young - We often focus on building our financial reserves, but how about our cognitive reserves? Keep playing those board games, and doing those crossword puzzles because research supports the idea that keeping the mind and body fit fends off dementia and Alzheimer's.