Well, it’s that time of year, folks!
That time of the year when those of us in cosmetic retail have to paste on a happy face and pretend to have the patience of a saint, by biting our tongue to avoid doing what we REALLY want to do….
SCREAM BLOODY MURDER!!!!
-Scream because that customer doesn’t want the FREE handbag that comes with her purchase because it’s BLACK and she would rather have it in BLUE.
“Me no like this color. Does it come in blue?”
“No, it doesn’t come in blue. It’s a FREE gift, so there are no options. However, if you’re looking for a blue handbag you can visit our handbag department. Michael Kors makes a stunning blue handbag for $895.00.”
-Scream because that same customer thinks she’s entitled to TWO free handbags because she and her sister are both putting in money to purchase their mother a single bottle of perfume.
“You give me TWO gifts if my sister and I buy?”
“No, you get ONE gift. Even if you, your sister, and your three cousins buy.”
-Scream because the customer from a foreign country believes they can HAGGLE in price because that’s how they do it in THEIR country.
“If I buy two bottles of perfume, what kind of sweet DEAL are you going to give me?”
“We don't deal. If you buy two bottles of perfume, you buy two bottles of perfume. Though, if you’re looking for a bargain you might want to try a FLEA MARKET.”
-Scream because some customers say, “What are you going to GIVE me if I buy something from you?”
“I’m going to GIVE you whatever it is that you purchase, and then thank you for whatever it is that you purchase.”
-Scream because some customers wait until CHRISTMAS EVE to purchase their gifts (mainly men) and then get angry at you because there is nothing left on the shelves.
“This is OUTRAGEOUS! I can’t believe there is nothing left on the shelves to choose from!”
“Well, it’s Christmas Eve; ten minutes before the store closes, what did you expect?”
Ah yes, Christmas in retail!
I may complain, bitch and moan at times….but deep down inside I love my job.
I honestly do. Or I wouldn’t do it.
Yet….like with any job you love, there are things that are not-so-loving and will test even the patience of a SAINT.
I just wanted to let you guys and gals know that I won’t be posting again until right before Christmas day because from tomorrow on, I will be working INSANE hours. Not only will I be working my normal holiday hours, but also the hours I missed while I was gone to Florida – which means NO days off.
However, I will try and stop by your blogs in the evenings to read and comment.
PRAY FOR ME!
X,
Saint Ronnie
bwahahah! Saint Ronnie INDEED!!! Having worked in retail in various different stores over the years...I REALLY can relate to these stories. People are INSANE over the holidays!! It made me mad when they would tell us during the team meetings that we always had to serve up a smile...no matter what...and then the customers would do everything in their power to make us whack them up side the head!! I really did love my job too Ronnie...especially the three Christmas seasons I worked at Bath & Body Works. Some people are just so fun to shop with. I totally used to crap up my manager as I had a tendency to open my mouth and then insert my foot!! Try to hang in there my friend...it will go very fast...promise!! xo Jeanne
ReplyDeleteVery funny, Ron! What a great sense of humor you have. Esp. the "saint" Ronnie bit! Heh, heh. Haven't you read the studies indicating that prayer doesn't make any difference at all? I thank God for them as it saves me going to the trouble or praying for someone who is already a saint.
ReplyDeleteI would not want to be in retail during this particular season. It's crazy here in Ocala and makes me want to move to a small town!
But just think of all the money you're making. That means you can come back to Florida in January! :-)
I picked up on that 'broken English' right away! Lol! They always think it's a flea market, don't they? Did I ever tell you about the time someone returned a 20 year old lamp to my department? It was in the box, so we had to take it! I was so pissed!
ReplyDeleteTell me you are not working Dec. 26th! Now that's definitely Dante's highest level of hell!
Sending prayers your way, Ron! I don't know how you do it. I just really hate the general public with every fiber of my being. p.s. on a semi-related note: I have a dentist appt. in an hour and I always withhold putting on perfume so that my dentist doesn't have to smell me so close. Although everyone seems to love my perfume (Ciara by Revlon). Just not in your face, literally.
ReplyDeleteHang in there, bud!
Ooh, I don't envy you this time of year! Of course, I say that, knowing it's also the most difficult time of the year in my line of work but for very different reasons!
ReplyDeleteThis thing cut me off before I finished! As I was saying...
ReplyDeleteDuring the holidays I try not to be the person making salespeople want to tear their hair out. I walk around quietly humming Christmas songs to myself, wait patiently in lines, and generally try to be as friendly as possible. No sense in getting sucked into being an ogre.
Oh, Saint Ronnie, I'm praying to the great God of Retail to get you through this hectic holiday season with your mind in one piece. It sounds like an insane asylum with cash registers! People want free stuff, they want deals, they want to haggle like they're in the bazaar in downtown Baghdad--this is the holiday spirit?? All I can say is keep on smiling and it'll all be over soon. Take care, buddy!!
ReplyDeleteI'm praying! I actually thought about you last time I was in the local store... I thought, poor Ron, facing all this again. Even though you love it, I wouldn't like to be in your shoes. So while you're working those INSANE hours remember that your fans are thinking of you. Keep dabbing that brow.... ....
ReplyDeleteHi Ronnnie,
ReplyDeleteOh babe, "May the force be with you!"; I am thinking of you each weekend.
I think that this time of year fills up your notepads with "fruitcake" stories galore.
You are blessed,sweetie; they must LOVE you!!
(love like that, I will pass on, he mutters...)
You take it easy. I have only one regret; I can't just swoosh on over to Philly and over to your cosmetic counters right now. :) Was the photo taken in the store where you work?
Hang in there and enjoy your quiet blog time.
xox
Hang in there. I can only imagine. Everyone wants something for free. It's become the way of the world.
ReplyDeleteTake care of yourself with all the long hours. It's cold and flu season and it's been ramping up in high gear around here.
Dear Saint Ronnie, I will be praying for you these next couple of weeks as I know how challenging it is for those of you in retail this time of the year. I had a seasonal part time job in retail many years ago, and by the time it was over I realized how difficult it is dealing with the public - especially around the holidays. To be honest, the only reason I took the job was to get the employee discount so I could buy Christmas presents for my family and friends. tee, hee!
ReplyDeleteI will miss your posts, but look forward to some great stories when you return.
Have a wonderful week, Ron.
Good morning Jeanne~
ReplyDelete"It made me mad when they would tell us during the team meetings that we always had to serve up a smile...no matter what...and then the customers would do everything in their power to make us whack them up side the head!!"
THANK YOU!!!!!!
Yesterday I almost lost it with a customer who kept insisting that she saw the product she wanted to buy ONLINE and that it was cheaper. So I finally said, "Well.....buy it ONLINE then!"
"I really did love my job too Ronnie...especially the three Christmas seasons I worked at Bath & Body Works."
Oooooo....I love Bath & Body Works! I love to go in there sometimes and just SMELL everything because everything smells so good. I especially love Bath & Body Works candles!
"Try to hang in there my friend...it will go very fast...promise!!"
Thank you. And you're right...it WILL go very fast. Before I know it, it will be over.
Have a super week, dear lady. And thanks for stopping by!
X to you and the girlz!
Hey there Lowell~
ReplyDelete"Haven't you read the studies indicating that prayer doesn't make any difference at all? I thank God for them as it saves me going to the trouble or praying for someone who is already a saint."
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! HILARIOUS!!!!!
"I would not want to be in retail during this particular season. It's crazy here in Ocala and makes me want to move to a small town!"
While I was in Florida over the Thanksgiving Day holiday, I couldn't believe how insane the roads got on Black Friday with holiday shoppers. The streets were packed with cars heading for the MALLS!
"But just think of all the money you're making. That means you can come back to Florida in January! :-)"
You're right. All I keep thinking about is how in January I'll have the whole month off and LOTS of money!
Thanks for stopping by, buddy. Have a great week!
X
Hey there Bijoux~
ReplyDelete"I picked up on that 'broken English' right away! Lol! They always think it's a flea market, don't they?"
Yes they do!!!!!! And what's especially ironic is that when you go into THEIR stores, they give NO discounts or gifts.
"Did I ever tell you about the time someone returned a 20 year old lamp to my department? It was in the box, so we had to take it! I was so pissed!"
WOW....20 years!?!!? We have customers that use practically the whole bottle of perfume and then return it because they said they're allergic to it. And then they use the store credit to buy something else. This happens A LOT.
"Tell me you are not working Dec. 26th! Now that's definitely Dante's highest level of hell!"
Yup...I have to work Dec. 26th because it's a busiest day for returns and After-Christmas sales - UGH! But fortunately, I'll have the whole month of January off to rest and recharge.
Thanks for stopping by, my friend. Have a super week!
X
Hellooooooooooooo Kathy~
ReplyDelete"I don't know how you do it. I just really hate the general public with every fiber of my being."
I actually enjoy working with the public, but sometimes it can be VERY challenging. Especially this time of the year because both the employees AND the public can get very frustrated and impatient because they're so tired and manic about shopping.
"I have a dentist appt. in an hour and I always withhold putting on perfume so that my dentist doesn't have to smell me so close. Although everyone seems to love my perfume (Ciara by Revlon). Just not in your face, literally."
OMG...yes, I remember the fragrance CIARA!!!!!! I used to work at Penny's in Florida and we carried that perfume!
The thing about fragrance is that so many people complain about other people wearing it because it makes them sneeze. So like you, I'm very careful about how much I put on if I'm going to be close up to someone - like a dentist.
Thanks for stopping by, girl. Have a faaaaaabulous week!
X
Hey there Secret Agent Woman!
ReplyDeleteOops...sorry about being cut off. Yes, sometimes that happens because others have said the same thing. And it's happened to me too.
"During the holidays I try not to be the person making salespeople want to tear their hair out. I walk around quietly humming Christmas songs to myself, wait patiently in lines, and generally try to be as friendly as possible. No sense in getting sucked into being an ogre."
Oh BLESS YOU!!! You're the kind of customer salespeople LOVE!!!!!
I try very hard to stay in the Christmas spirit too, by remembering what the season is all about. But sometimes (especially when it's two days before Christmas), my patience gets very thin.
Thank you for stopping by, my friend. Have a great week!
X
Hey there Rob~
ReplyDelete"Oh, Saint Ronnie, I'm praying to the great God of Retail to get you through this hectic holiday season with your mind in one piece."
Thank you, buddy!!!!
" It sounds like an insane asylum with cash registers! People want free stuff, they want deals, they want to haggle like they're in the bazaar in downtown Baghdad--this is the holiday spirit??"
HA! Yes, exactly...in a bazaar in downtown BAGHADAD!!!
It becomes like a "Let's Make A Deal" sale!
Thanks so much for stopping by, Rob! Have a great week!
X
P.S. hope your back is feeling better!
Good morning Valerie~
ReplyDelete"I'm praying! I actually thought about you last time I was in the local store... I thought, poor Ron, facing all this again. Even though you love it, I wouldn't like to be in your shoes."
Thank you, dear lady!
I was talking to one of my fellow-employees earlier this week and I said to her, "I can't believe Christmas in retail is here again because I feel like we just did this yesterday!" The seasons seem to fly when you're in retail.
"So while you're working those INSANE hours remember that your fans are thinking of you. Keep dabbing that brow.."
((((( You ))))
Thank you. And I'll be thinking of you guys and gals too!
Have a terrific week, dear lady. Thanks for stopping by!
X
Bonjour Barb~
ReplyDelete"Oh babe, "May the force be with you!"; I am thinking of you each weekend."
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!
"You are blessed,sweetie; they must LOVE you!!
(love like that, I will pass on, he mutters...)"
HHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH! Too funny! Actually, there are a lot GREAT customers who I enjoy waiting on. It's just that the difficult ones seems to outweigh the easy ones.
"Was the photo taken in the store where you work?"
No, it wasn't. But it looks like the store I work in, so I used it. I photo edited it a bit, over at PicMonkey. I love that place!
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a wonderful week and know that I'll be thinking of you and everyone else these next couple of weeks!
((((( You ))))
X to you and D!
Hiya Jen~
ReplyDelete" Everyone wants something for free. It's become the way of the world."
HA! Ain't that the truth???? But I blame the industry I'm in because they were the ones who started "Free Gift With Purchase", so now everyone expects it.
"Take care of yourself with all the long hours. It's cold and flu season and it's been ramping up in high gear around here."
Thank you. And yes, I will. I've been doing a lot Reiki and Reflexology on myself so that I stay healthy through these next couple of weeks. Also, I'm trying to go to bed early so that I don't get rundown.
Have a wonderful week, girl! And thanks for stopping by!
X
Hola Denise~
ReplyDelete"To be honest, the only reason I took the job was to get the employee discount so I could buy Christmas presents for my family and friends. tee, hee!"
OMG...how funny! When I first moved back to Philly I took a seasonal part time job myself (at Illuminations) so that I could get the discount too!
They gave a 45% discount to all employees, so I was able to buy a lot candle gifts for people.
"I will miss your posts, but look forward to some great stories when you return."
Yup...I will be storing up stories for January!
Thank you for stopping by, girl. Have a wonderful week! Enjoy the holiday!
X
Merry Christmas, Ron! Don't let those crazies drive you crazy! This is precisely why I order everything I can online!
ReplyDeleteAs Barb shared, "May the force be with you!"
ReplyDeleteThis is the time of the year when I try to avoid shopping in any mall. And if I do shop, I go during the day on my time off from work to avoid the huge night time crowds. Luckily this year my family and I are doing one gift exchange each, so that we don't have to buy something for everyone in the family. I already got my present bought!
Hang in there, Saint Ronnie!
I no do sales. I kill customers.
ReplyDeleteSeriously, Ron, it takes someone extra special to work in retail with....People! I know because I'm a person and sometimes I want to kill myself when I'm such a bitch I hate me. So I'll stay home to save others the agony of me.
"...if you’re looking for a bargain you might want to try a FLEA MARKET.”
Crack me up! But then again, all your come-backs were funny as hell. And I'm sure true-blue, too. People really think they should get all kinds of free crap just for walking IN the store. WTF?
Half the time I don't even want the free gift. I normally give it to some teenage girl standing there with her mother. You can see the girl is just dying for something but the mother isn't there buying stuff for the girl. So, I'll give her the gift and she just BEAMS! It's priceless (no pun).
Don't work too hard and be sure to tell us all the funny stories!
I'm about done with this rain! Everything is so soggy! Yuk!
((YOU))
...Ah, Saint Ronnie, sing along with me, 'kay? You ready?
ReplyDelete"It's the MOST wonderful time of the yeear,
With the kids jingle belling
And everyone telling you "Be of good cheer".
It's the most wonderful time of the year." (You still with me? One more.:o)
"It's the hap-happiest season of allll,
With those holiday greetings and gay happy meetings
When friends come to call.
It's the hap- happiest season of ALL!" [bow]
...See, all better now, yes? (((you))) :o)
...One last thought. The next time you go to the bathroom at work, just confiscate a few rolls of tissue and the next time a customer inquires about what they get for free, just show 'em a roll and say, "this". Put it in their free bag and say, with a smile of course, "Merry Christmas!" ...ha,ha,ha
...Hang in their bud', we're pullin' for ya! :o)
...Blessings.
do you have a sweet deal
ReplyDeletethat kills me!!
and all the bartering over FREE gifts, such crap
if you don't want to pay for stuff then don't shop at large established stores
as you said, go to the flea market
hang in there sweetie
just laugh it off
If it makes you feel better, haggling isn't confined to just cosmetic sales - it applies to pretty much all retail. I have worked in a tropical fish store, a luggage store, Brookstone, and The Sharper Image, and everywhere, people wanted to bargain for a (insert "free fish" or "free carry-on" or "free useless gadget" or "free useless gadget." (What can I say? Brookstone and TSI are pretty much one and the same)).
ReplyDeleteAnyway, best of luck surviving the holidays!!
Hey there Suzi!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you too, my friend!
" Don't let those crazies drive you crazy! This is precisely why I order everything I can online!"
I think a lot of people are doing that this year too. We've had several customers see something online and then come into the store expecting the same price. But what they don't realize is that some products are 'special priced' online. OMG....then they FREAK OUT because they made a trip into the store and can't get it for the same price - OY VEY!
Thanks for stopping by,Suzi. Have a super week!
X
Howdy Robert~
ReplyDelete"And if I do shop, I go during the day on my time off from work to avoid the huge night time crowds."
Smart move, buddy! It's best to shop during the weekdays on your day off, than on the weekend when EVERYONE is shopping.
"Luckily this year my family and I are doing one gift exchange each, so that we don't have to buy something for everyone in the family. I already got my present bought!"
Oh, what a GREAT idea. I think every family should do that because it makes it less stressful and more economical to just do a family exchange by pulling names out of a hat.
Thanks so much for stopping by, Robert. Have a great week!
X
Hey there Pam!
ReplyDeleteI sincerely enjoy working in retail, but it's times like the holidays that makes me a bit crazy and impatient with customers - especially towards the end of the day when I'm tired and hungry. OMG...I get very cranky when I'm hungry.
"Crack me up! But then again, all your come-backs were funny as hell. And I'm sure true-blue, too. People really think they should get all kinds of free crap just for walking IN the store. WTF?"
Sometimes I say things to customers with a smile on my face, so they can't tell if I'm being serious or just joking. But I'm NOT joking - HA!
"Half the time I don't even want the free gift."
I agree. Some of the gifts are just tacky as hell. But if it's something like a skincare or fragrance sample, I think it's nice because it allows a customer to try something before buying it. I blame this industry for creating the "FREE GIFT" monster because they're the ones who started customers believing that we have to GIVE them something or they won't buy.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my PA friend! Hope you had a great weekend and a great week ahead!
((((( You )))))
X
P.S. Can you believe all the RAIN we're getting? And today it was so warm and humid, I was sweating to death walking home from the grocery store. Tomorrow it's supposed to be much colder. YAY!
Hello TJ~
ReplyDeleteOMG.....I LOVE YOU, DEAR LADY!!!!!!
Thanks so much for sharing that song with me because YES...I DO feel better! And I'll be singing that song all night tonight and tomorrow at work!
"It's the MOST wonderful time of the yeear........."
"The next time you go to the bathroom at work, just confiscate a few rolls of tissue and the next time a customer inquires about what they get for free, just show 'em a roll and say, "this". Put it in their free bag and say, with a smile of course, "Merry Christmas!" ..."
Bwhahahahahahahahahaha! BRILLIANT IDEA!!! That CRACKED ME UP!
And I think I'll confiscate the toilet paper from the bathroom in Starbucks, while I'm stealing a handful of napkins - HA!
Thanks so much for stopping by today, my friend. You always make me smile and feel good. Thank you!
(((((( You ))))))
Have a MAAAAAAAAAVELOUS week!
X
Helloooooo Lady Dianne~
ReplyDelete"and all the bartering over FREE gifts, such crap
if you don't want to pay for stuff then don't shop at large established stores
as you said, go to the flea market"
AAAAAAAAAAAAAMEN!
And the thing that really annoys me about most of the people who are ALWAYS asking for deals and free gifts is that they're usually WEALTHY people, but cheap!
"hang in there sweetie
just laugh it off"
Will do! There's nothing else to do, BUT laugh.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, Di! Have a supa' week!
X to you and Hope!
P.S. Hope Siren and Isadora are doing well.
Howdy Mark~
ReplyDelete" haggling isn't confined to just cosmetic sales - it applies to pretty much all retail."
You're right, buddy. Haggling isn't confined to just cosmetic sales. I think most retailers deal with the same issue - "What are you going to GIVE me EXTRA if I buy something from you?"
Oooo...you worked at Brookstone and The Sharper Image? I love those stores. In fact, I own a couple things from them.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, buddy. Have a faaaaabulous week!
X to you and Tara!
well i'll be sure to pray for you for real that i don't see a photo of you on the news beating someone with a free gift they wanted in midnight blue. you will need a lot of patience dealing with the public, i don't know how you do it. seriously though, i want to work at barnes and noble because i love books and i don't want to talk to anyone much, but would be happy organizing the books. i can't do the cash register, nope. too much possibility of things that could go wrong.
ReplyDeleteyou know the perfume you gave us ladies a few months ago? my sister loved it and when out and bought it for herself. i wear it almost every day, i love it.
your schedule sounds tiring, but loving your job helps a bunch when you have to work long hours. i'm often seen running from my office building, does that tell you something about my love affair?
don't over work yourself. say what do you do at lunch time, go on a break (actually eat lunch) or walk around outside? i would totally be outside as the area you showed us feels like NY.
Hey there V Girl~
ReplyDelete"well i'll be sure to pray for you for real that i don't see a photo of you on the news beating someone with a free gift they wanted in midnight blue."
Bwhahahhaahhahaaha! OMG...that was HILARIOUS! And can you just see me on the 6 o'clock news being DRAGGED out of the store by three policemen, with a blue handbag in my hand?????
" i want to work at barnes and noble because i love books and i don't want to talk to anyone much, but would be happy organizing the books. i can't do the cash register, nope. too much possibility of things that could go wrong."
Ooooo....I think you would be GREAT at Barnes & Noble! I think they have people there who do nothing BUT stock and organize the books, so you might want to check into that as a part time job. I LOVE Barnes & Noble. When I was visiting my brother last month, I went there almost everyday for a cup of coffee and a read.
"you know the perfume you gave us ladies a few months ago? my sister loved it and went out and bought it for herself. i wear it almost every day, i love it."
Yaaaaaaaaaaay! I'm so glad to hear that you liked it! Listen, when you and I see each other again, I'll give you another bottle because I have a TON of them in my apartment. Also, I'll give you a body lotion in the same scent.
"your schedule sounds tiring, but loving your job helps a bunch when you have to work long hours."
It sure does. I don't mind the long hours because I know it's only for a short time. However, I couldn't do it all the time no matter how much I love my job.
"don't over work yourself. say what do you do at lunch time, go on a break (actually eat lunch) or walk around outside? i would totally be outside as the area you showed us feels and looks like NY."
Yes, usually I take a full 45 minutes for lunch, by going OUTSIDE the store and walking to my favorite deli. After being inside all day, I need a change of scenery.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, girl. Have a fantastic week! And I look forward to getting together with you, Meleah and Kathy in January!
X
P.S. I used edit button ALL THE TIME because I'm always misspelling my comments - HA!
*sigh* Okay....it was really sweet of folks to cover for you while you went to Florida--but geeze........ *sigh* k.....I know how it has to work sometimes. I'm sorry it's falling into place like that now...for you....over the holidays no less. Yeahyeah.....I know things happen for reasons and I'll trust the process in the deal. HOWEVER...... :-/
ReplyDelete((((((((( Ron ))))))))))
k......That being said--..........EVERYbody SING!!!
♫♪ "It's the MOST wonderful time of the year,
With the kids jingle belling
And everyone telling you "Be of good cheer".♫♪
It's the most wonderful time of the year."
"It's the hap-happiest season of allll,♫♪
With those holiday greetings and gay happy meetings
When friends come to call.
It's the hap- happiest season of ALL!"
*laughing* We'll blame tj--cuz now the darn thing is stuck in my brain, too! Ah well......could be worse, I'm sure!
In the meantime, please know folks are thinking of you and hoping for only the bestest and easiest of holidays getting to do what it is that you do. And I, being one who detests shopping to begin with, will NOT be adding to the insanities of the holiday shopping experience. In the rare situation that I MAY find myself in a shop at this time of year, I'm happypolitefriendlypatient and just darn joyful with the retail folks! I figure they NEED that rare breed in that mad house.
(((((((((((((( Ron )))))))))))))))) Be taking care of you. We'll be pullin' for ya and thinking of ya!
I think it would be fun to stop in your store on Christmas Eve and do some shopping. Do you know anyone who works there who has a "saintly" aura that I could test? I've got some anecdotal evidence about one person who sometimes doesn't know quite what to do. In other words, he is stumped. My sociological study would involve driving this person up the wall to the point where his saintly glow would begin to diminish, where he would no longer be stumped, at which time he would turn as red as Santa's suit and scream "Get the hell out of here, you no good ..... " Well, you can fill in the rest.
ReplyDeleteWhat do you think about this idea? I would call the study, "Stumped or Not Stumped." Let me know when you have some free time. Does the store give you free time?
I've got to go now. There are other Scroogy things I must get done before the 12 Days of you-know-what begin. Bah, humbug!
Oh MY! I thought I had it bad, but hands down your customers blow mine away. Dearest, I will pray and do the sign of the cross. God help ya! :-) lol.
ReplyDeleteOh man, I feel for ya! Here's hoping that the above scene doesn't get repeated (but I'm sure it will). I guess the only thing you can do is turn inward during demanding days, do the Zen thing, and mentally separate yourself from the writhing hoard bent on destroying your soul this holiday season. Take breaks when you can, and (as my dad would say) remember to hydrate.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure why I suggested hydrating, but it's what my dad always said to do, no matter what I was doing. Heh...
Howdy Herman~
ReplyDelete" I guess the only thing you can do is turn inward during demanding days, do the Zen thing, and mentally separate yourself from the writhing hoard bent on destroying your soul this holiday season."
LOVE what you shared! And you're right...turn inward and do the Zen thing! This time of the year is GREAT practice for that!
"I'm not sure why I suggested hydrating, but it's what my dad always said to do, no matter what I was doing. Heh..."
HAHAHAHAHAHA! Hey, and your dad is absolutely right! Hydrating keeps the body and mind clean and clear. And it's funny you mentioned hydrating because this time of year (with the heat on in the store) I get very dehydrated and thirsty.
Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. As I shared, I will try to get around to visiting blogs in the evenings to check up on guys. It'll be a great distraction from the INSANITY at work!
Have a super week!
X to you, Karin, and Mr. Tyler!
*waving*
ReplyDeleteHiya Mel!
" I'm sorry it's falling into place like that now...for you....over the holidays no less. Yeahyeah.....I know things happen for reasons and I'll trust the process in the deal."
Actually, coming back to work and having to throw myself into it has been good for me because everyone at work has been so supportive and caring about the last two weeks. I'm able to talk to them about what I'm feeling after my mothers death, so it's been very positive. Yes, this a rough time for me at work, but this is ALWAYS a rough time for me (or anyone who works in retail) because it's the nature of the beast.
Christmas in retail.
But there is also a lot of wonderful things too, like, watching all the kiddies come into the store and going upstairs to visit SANTA! It totally warms my heart and reminds me of the true meaning of Christmas....LOVE.
And hey....I LOVE your song and the cute little notes you added! OMG...they're ADORABLE!!!!
"It's the most wonderful time of the year........"
" I'm happypolitefriendlypatient and just darn joyful with the retail folks! I figure they NEED that rare breed in that mad house."
GOD LOVE YA, MEL!
I wish ALL the customers would be like YOU!!!
((((( You )))))
Thanks oodles for stopping by and for all your well-wishes, dear lady. I'll be thinking of you too and hoping you're enjoying this FAAAAABULOUS time of the year! I'll try and stop by your blogs throughout the next two weeks to read up and say HI!
X ya bunches!
Lowell, your comment made me HOWL!!!!!
ReplyDelete"would involve driving this person up the wall to the point where his saintly glow would begin to diminish, where he would no longer be stumped, at which time he would turn as red as Santa's suit and scream "Get the hell out of here, you no good ..... " Well, you can fill in the rest."
Bwhahahahahahahahaha!
But I promise, if you came into the store, I would NOT scream at you. In fact, if you came into the store I would jump up and down and say, "Yaaaaaaaaaaaaay....I finally got to meet ya, Lowell!"
"What do you think about this idea? I would call the study, "Stumped or Not Stumped." Let me know when you have some free time. Does the store give you free time?"
BRILLIANT idea! And yes, I get a 20 minute break between 4-5 PM, so we'll go to Starbucks for a cup of coffee, okay?
"I've got to go now. There are other Scroogy things I must get done before the 12 Days of you-know-what begin. Bah, humbug!"
Aw...somehow I don't think your a SCROOGE. You're much too nice a person to be a scrooge.
Have a great week, buddy. And thanks for stopping back!
X
Oh MY! I thought I had it bad, but hands down your customers blow mine away. Dearest, I will pray and do the sign of the cross. God help ya! :-) lol.
ReplyDeleteHey there Angelia~
ReplyDelete" Dearest, I will pray and do the sign of the cross. God help ya! :-) lol"
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Thank you for the sign of the cross because I'll need it by next week!
Always FAB seeing ya, Angelia! Thanks for stopping by and have a great week!
X
I think about you every year during this season.
ReplyDeleteMay your customers be polite, your overtime check large and the wine you'll undoubtedly need, be chilled and ready for consumption.
Howdy Jeff~
ReplyDelete"May your customers be polite, your overtime check large and the wine you'll undoubtedly need, be chilled and ready for consumption."
Thanks. And Amen to the wine! I just discovered a new red wine while in Florida. It's called ApothicRed. It's a fabulous blend of four different reds. REALLY great taste!
Have a wonderful week, buddy. And thanks for stopping by!
X
good luck ron...see you on the other side! xox
ReplyDeleteHello Dear Linda!
ReplyDeleteThank you, my friend!
((((( You ))))
Have a great week!
XOX
hello Ron - just a quick note to say when/if you have a spare moment (no, that's not a joke!) please pop over to see Mel. . . she's broken )-: (not too badly, thank goodness)
ReplyDeletepeace
I, Like The View
"Michael Kors makes a stunning blue handbag for $895.00.”
ReplyDeleteRon, I'm wondering, did she faint on the floor when you said that or did she take the FREE black bag? Ha!
Here's hoping this season is much less stressful than previous. Take care!
Hey there English Inukshuk~
ReplyDeleteThank so much for stopping by and letting me about Mel. I'll be SURE to stop by her blog this evening!
Happy Holiday to you, dear lady!
Peace!
X
Hiya Matt!
ReplyDelete"Ron, I'm wondering, did she faint on the floor when you said that or did she take the FREE black bag? Ha!"
Bwhahahahahahahaha! Good one, buddy!
Suddenly the BLACK handbag looked GREAT! tee, hee!
Thanks for stopping by! It hasn't been too bad so far, but we still have almost two weeks left, soooooooooo.....
X
Hey Ron, I am surprised she didn't interpret you to say "Since you don't want the black bag, I'll give you a stunning blue $895.00 Michael Kors handbag instead"
ReplyDeleteGood Luck Buddy I know you love your job and hopefully I can make it in before you close on Christmas eve so you can give me some free stuff for Cindy's Christmas gift :)
Howdy Jimmy~
ReplyDelete" I know you love your job and hopefully I can make it in before you close on Christmas eve so you can give me some free stuff for Cindy's Christmas gift :)"
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Great! I'll save you a free bag for Cindy!
Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Hope you and Cindy are enjoying a wonderful holiday season!
X to you both!
Thanks for your comment this morning. I really appreciate it knowing that you have no more time off and you spend so much time laughing. What a great sense of humor you have!
ReplyDeleteStay cool!
Oooh, yeah. Christmas in retail! LOL! Love the story about the haggling and the handbags!
ReplyDeleteReminds me that I did in fact buy a stunning blue handbag quite recently. Gorgeous, gorgeous bag, in heliotrope blue ... and it cost me about £70, not $895 US. It is a thing of beauty.
And I don't usually get excited about 'girly' things!
I hope you enjoy the run-up to Christmas - or at least, come through it unscathed and without killing anyone!
Hiya Lowell~
ReplyDeleteIf I don't laugh, I'll cry - HA!
Love reading your blog, buddy!
Hope you're having an awesome week!
Hi Ron!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your experience, you vented out so pleasantly and made me laugh! Can I suggest something, keep a big fake increased price tag for the customers who haggles, immediately show it to them as soon as they start bargaining. "This is the original price before discount!"
Hopefully you'll get another scream :)
I'm sorry that you have to work all those insane hours, I've been through it before an I know how tiring it is. Take care, my friend.
Hey there Jay~
ReplyDelete"Reminds me that I did in fact buy a stunning blue handbag quite recently. Gorgeous, gorgeous bag, in heliotrope blue ... and it cost me about £70, not $895 US. It is a thing of beauty."
Now your price sounds MUCH more reasonable than $895.00. I think that converts to $140.00 in U.S. currency. And I bet it IS a thing of beauty! Most of Michael Kors handbags are waaaaaaaaay overpriced, but hey, there are people who will pay it. I however, could pay my rent on $895.00 and have money left over to pay my phone bill - HA!
Thanks so much for stopping by, Jay! Hope you and your doggies are doing well and enjoying this holiday season!
X
Greetings Abu~
ReplyDelete"Can I suggest something, keep a big fake increased price tag for the customers who haggles, immediately show it to them as soon as they start bargaining. "This is the original price before discount!"
*applause*
BRAVO....that's a BRILLIANT idea!!!!!!!
"I'm sorry that you have to work all those insane hours, I've been through it before an I know how tiring it is."
This is really the only time in my job when it gets a little rough with working a lot hours because of the holidays. Yet, most of the time my job hours are very easy and enjoyable. Like with any job you get the good with the bad.
Always a delight to see your comments, Abu! Hope all is well for you and that you're enjoying your week!
X
Saint Ronnie! Have a wonderful holiday season, brother!
ReplyDeleteand the very happiest of holidays to you too, Ron!
ReplyDelete(-:
I, Like The View
:)
ReplyDeleteX
Hey there Constant Complainer~
ReplyDeleteAnd the same to you, buddy!
Wishing you and your family a WONDERFUL holiday!
Much thanks for stopping by!
X
I cannot even imagine. Drives me nuts just trying to find a place to park. Not sure how I'd find the fortitude in my soul to put a patient smile on my face and address the special needs of these assorted customers. Every day. All day long.
ReplyDeleteplease give Ronnie strength!
or vodka.
xoxo
I'm sure all that can be a drag, but it's funny too, and you do see the humor in it. I like that you love your job. :)
ReplyDeleteI was just in Boscov's chatting with one of the sales ladies and she was telling me a few interesting stories too. But the thing is, so many companies aren't very upfront with their customers ... they mark stuff up, only to discount it, making you think you've gotten a deal when really you're still paying way more than what it's worth. You know this, my friend! So maybe people feel like they have to try a little creative bargaining so they won't mind being overcharged in the first place.
Hey, I bought a lightweight shimmery jacket that night. It didn't have any primo designer label and certainly isn't something I can wear often this time of year because it's so thin. The original price said $78. Please! Of course, it was 'on sale' for around half price and I had a coupon so it came to about $30 but was it really ever worth more than that? Not to me. lol
All good wishes for you getting thru the rest of the season! We might be in Philly on Sunday. :)
Hiya Mary!
ReplyDelete"I'm sure all that can be a drag, but it's funny too, and you do see the humor in it. I like that you love your job. :)"
Yes, aggravation and all...I still love my job. Plus, it gives me something to blog about - HA!
"But the thing is, so many companies aren't very upfront with their customers ... they mark stuff up, only to discount it, making you think you've gotten a deal when really you're still paying way more than what it's worth."
That's true, except when it comes to cosmetics and fragrances. When it comes to those retail items, there are never any sales, mark ups, mark downs, or discounts. No matter what store you go to, the prices are all the same. However, some companies DO offer "free gifts" (which puts customers in the mindset of getting something for free) so they assume ALL companies do. I don't blame this on the customers, but the industry itself, because they're the ones who started "a free gift with purchase."
" The original price said $78. Please! Of course, it was 'on sale' for around half price and I had a coupon so it came to about $30 but was it really ever worth more than that?"
You GO, girl! What a GREAT sale!!!!!! And jacket sounds faaaaaaabulous!
Thanks a bunch for stopping by neighbor. Hope you're having a super weekend!
X
P.S. have fun in Philly tomorrow!
Goooood morning Diane~
ReplyDelete"Not sure how I'd find the fortitude in my soul to put a patient smile on my face and address the special needs of these assorted customers. Every day. All day long. please give Ronnie strength!
or vodka."
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAH! FLAWLESS!!!!! I take salvation in a nice glass of red wine every night!
This is really the only time in my job when it gets a bit stressful because of the massive crowds of customers in a hurry to get their shopping done, so everyone gets a little impatient and frustrated (both the customers AND the employees). I just have to always remember to take a deep breath, smile, and realize it's only temporary.
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, girl! Hope you're having a great weekend and enjoying the holiday season!
Much X to you and Cristybella!
so, I was in Kohls last night and came upon this elderly woman terrorizing a sales clerk over - wait for it - free gift
ReplyDeleteshe wanted 2
the clerk was being so kind and gentle but the line was getting longer and seems everyone was about to lose it
I was buying something that qualified for the gift so I offered my gift to the older woman
she was about to start arguing when I leaned down and whispered "take my gift and be happy or I'm going to lift you up and throw you into a pile of towels"
all was well in the land
sales clerk kissed me on the cheek, he was cute too!!
I dedicate that moment to you my love
Hope sends hugs too
Good luck Ron! This is indeed a crazy time of year, and despite all that has occurred, I find myself feeling optomistic and very "holiday-ish". It has been a long time since I felt this way about the holidays and I am just going to enjoy it. Enjoy your holidays too!
ReplyDeletexo,
Bill
Dianne....I ADORE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDelete"she was about to start arguing when I leaned down and whispered "take my gift and be happy or I'm going to lift you up and throw you into a pile of towels"
Bwhahahahahahahahahaha! OMG...I DYING OVER HERE!!!!!!
THAT. WAS. BRILLIANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*applause...applause....applause*
"all was well in the landsales clerk kissed me on the cheek, he was cute too!!"
I wanna kiss you too!
MWAH!
You have no idea how much ENJOYED reading your comment. Especially after the past few days I've had at work. So THANK YOU!
X ya, dear lady!
Sending hugs to you and Hope!
Helloooooooooo Bill!
ReplyDelete"and despite all that has occurred, I find myself feeling optomistic and very "holiday-ish". It has been a long time since I felt this way about the holidays and I am just going to enjoy it."
You GO, boy! Glad to hear you're enjoying the holidays.
Actually, even though I'm exhausted and a bit overwhelmed, I do feel holiday-ish because whenever I see a group of kids walking through the store with smiles on their faces from seeing Santa upstairs, I can't help but smile myself :)
Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy.
X and hugs to you and Paul!
Just checkin' in! It's Monday--it's my routine and you'll just have to get over it.
ReplyDeleteI just gotta say that I ADORE Dianne! And I love that she took such good care of the little fella in Kohls!
You and your fellow staff be taking care of each other.
Don't forget the jingle bell antlers and the red nose!
Oh--and wrapping yourself in holiday lights with a very long extension cord IS allowed during the holiday season. :-D
Just wanted you to know you're being thought of.
Hope it's going well!
Helloooooooooooo Mel!
ReplyDeleteGod love ya, woman....thank you for checking up on me!
(((((( You )))))
You're a sweetheart!
"I just gotta say that I ADORE Dianne! And I love that she took such good care of the little fella in Kohls!"
Wasn't that FLAWLESS??? I laughed my ass off at her comment last night! Yup...she took such GOOD care of the little fella at Kohls.
"You and your fellow staff be taking care of each other."
Yes, we are, supplying each other with cookies and candies to keep us going and keep us sweet - HA! Actually, it hasn't been too-too bad so far, however, this week may be a little tough as we are only a week away from the BIG day, so it gets a little hairy.
I'm totally enjoying watching the "little ones" walk through the store on their way back from visiting Santa upstairs; smiling and laughing. They are SOOOOOOOOOO cute!
Thanks oodles for stopping by, dear lady. It was such a joy to read your comment tonight. Hope you're leg is healing well!
((((((( You ))))))
X ya bunches!
Hi Ron! I was going to call you but I didn't want people on my party line to hear what I had to say. Then I thought I'd tell you in a song, but I couldn't think of any lyrics that would be satisfactory. I thought about how to tell you for a long time. Finally, I sat down to write this note. But now I've forgotten what it was I was going to say.
ReplyDeleteSo, how's retail these days? I'll bet I know what you're saying a lot: "Happy Holidays!"
Hiya Lowell~
ReplyDeleteHA! Your comment gave me a great laugh this morning, so thanks buddy!
Retail is going well. This last week is going to be the toughest because we're coming to the finish and I've been working a lot of hours with no days off, so I feel like a ZOMBIE!
I've got the whole month of January off, therefore I'll have that time to relax, recharge and renew before I start back in February.
Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!
Thanks for stopping by, Lowell!
How infuriating it must be! The only thing I ask when I buy cosmetics or fragrances (especially expensive ones) is "Do you have any samples please?" I usually get some very nice ones. :) Hope you get through the next week OK Ron, I'll be thinking of you. xx
ReplyDeleteHello there Pearl!
ReplyDeleteWelcome back, dear friend!!!!!
" The only thing I ask when I buy cosmetics or fragrances (especially expensive ones) is "Do you have any samples please?" I usually get some very nice ones. :)"
You're one of those customers that we LOVE. I wish more were like you!
((((( You )))))
Thanks so much for stopping by, m'dear! Looking forward to catching up with you. Can't wait to read all about your trip!
X ya!
Oh, honey, I SOOOOO don't miss the crazies from all my years in retail. Although, they do make great stories! Hang on...it's almost over. xoxo
ReplyDeleteHey there Chrissy!
ReplyDeleteOMG, that's right....I totally forgot you were in retail at one time too!!
Aren't the CRAZIES fun??????
You're right, it's almost over. Just 6 more days!!!!!
YAHOOOOOOOOOOO!
Thanks so much for stopping by, girl. Hope you're enjoying this holiday season!
X to you and gang!
Once your nightmare is over, have a wonderful, peaceful Christmas Ron :)
ReplyDeleteHi Ron!
ReplyDelete"Like with any job you get the good with the bad." - Very well said, when the bad time comes, I always remind myself of the good times, it pretty much helps me to calm down, and be grateful with the job I have :)
Hope all is well, my friend.
Hiya Babs!
ReplyDeleteThank you, my friend. My plan is to spend Christmas day with a dear friend of mine; having a nice quiet dinner and a glass of wine.
You've been on my mind lately, hoping you're healing well.
(((((( You ))))))
Thanks so much for stopping by. Happy holidays!
X to you and Mo!
Greetings Abu!
ReplyDelete"when the bad time comes, I always remind myself of the good times, it pretty much helps me to calm down, and be grateful with the job I have :)"
Amen! There are so many people without jobs, I feel blessed to have one.
Hope you're enjoying the holidays, my friend! And thank you for stopping by!
Just stopping back in to say - you're almost there!! One more weekend to go!
ReplyDeleteHelloooooo Secret Agent Woman!
ReplyDeleteYaaaaaaaaaaaaaay! I'm almost there...one more weekend to go!!!
And I'm sooooooooo glad because I had a VERY rough day at work today - I almost slapped TWO customers - HAHAHAHAHAHA!
Thank you so much for stopping back and leaving a comment. You're a sweetheart. Hope you're having a faaaaaabulous week and enjoying the holiday!
((((( You )))))
X
ALMOST there......it's the time for insanities!
ReplyDeleteI'm hopeful the cute kiddos will counterbalance the rest of us.
Joyous Saturday to you, sir.
May the shoppers be bountiful and their attitudes be joyful!
;-)
ALMOST there!!
Hi, Ron. Just wanted to send you a note of encouragement. I know this must be nuts for you this weekend. Hang in there. Not much longer to go!
ReplyDeleteHey there Kathy!
ReplyDeleteAw....thank you, girl!
(((((( You ))))))
Yes, it's been pretty NUTSO this weekend, as we come in for the finish. But hey, just two more days and it's over. Yaaaaaaaaaaaaay!
Hope you're enjoying this holiday season and thanks so much for stopping by!
X
P.S. aren't you enjoying this COLD weather? I am!
Hiya Mel!
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by, dearest lady.
Yup....almost there. Yipeeeeee!
And I'm so glad because I'm pretty dang tired after working straight through these past two weeks. I just got in from doing some grocery shopping after working all day because I had NO food in the house.
Gosh, I can't wait to get back to my normal working schedule...:)
Hope you're doing well and that your leg is healing....
(((((((((((( You )))))))))))
X ya bunches!
hi st. ronnie, are you being saintly, my dear? sweet, kind, efficient and always with a smile plastered on your lovely face? good, i am glad to hear it...don't envy you but hope at least there's some commission.... be peaceful, my friend and hope to see you again soon.xoxox
ReplyDeleteGoooood morning Linda!
ReplyDelete" are you being saintly, my dear? sweet, kind, efficient and always with a smile plastered on your lovely face?"
HA! Not quite. But I only lost my patience TWICE so far, therefore, I'm HALF a saint - tee, hee!
Only two more days left - yaaaaaaaaaaay!!!!
Thanks a bunch for stopping by, dear friend. Hope you're enjoying this holiday season. Can't wait to get back to blogging soon!
((((((( You )))))))
xoxoxoxoxoxox
Thank you for your very kind comment this morning. I hope that your "season" is going well and that you're not too overworked and you've not yet turned into Scrooge. I'm sure I would have in your position! Take good care and have a wonderful holiday with family and friends!
ReplyDeleteHi Lowell!
ReplyDeleteNo, I haven't turned into Scrooge yet, but there's still one more day left, so you never know - HA!
I am sooooooo looking forward to having Tuesday off.
Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!
Thanks for stopping by, buddy. Happy Holiday!
YEAH!! After today---DONE!! So dig out the antlers, strap on the nose and HOHOHO folks with that charming little grin of yours. Tomorrow you can collapse and just BE!
ReplyDeleteFood's in the house and you can lounge in jammies all day long, watching DVD's and sipping a good wine. Oh, and munch on a few treats that I'm sure have found their way to you.
You've GOT to be bushed with these back to back to back days--I'm hopeful the joy filled moments have outweighed the 'you've GOT to be kidding' ones.
YEAH!! LAST DAY!!
:-)
Happy Christmas, sir.
We're doing 'minimal' this year--and I'm not so sure I won't LIKE it! Yup--comfy blankie, DVD in the player, turkey in the oven and lights glowin'......OH........AND--
*snickering* I'm gonna wrap the cast in red ribbon, dab some peppermint flavoring behind my ears and be a candy cane!
HA!! Eatcherheartout! LOLOL
hi ron....thinking of you on this last day..tho then it's the ...dare i say....sales?? hoping you are OFF sales. ;) have a wonderful little christmas, dear man and a new year filled with everything joyful and beautiful, everything you could desire and then some. i am blessed to have you in my life. xoxoxo
ReplyDeleteDearest Linda, your comment (after a LONG and TIRING day) was so beautiful to read!
ReplyDeleteThank you, my friend. Thank you!
((((((( You ))))))
You're a sweetheart!
And I'm blessed to have you in my life also!
xoxoxoxoxo
*waving*
ReplyDeleteHiya Mel!
"YEAH!! After today---DONE!! So dig out the antlers, strap on the nose and HOHOHO folks with that charming little grin of yours. Tomorrow you can collapse and just BE!"
AAAAAAAAAAAMEN and YAHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
It's DONE!!!!!
*doing the happy dance*
I came home tonight and collapsed.
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
"*snickering* I'm gonna wrap the cast in red ribbon, dab some peppermint flavoring behind my ears and be a candy cane!"
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! You crack me up!!!
Actually, your day tomorrow sounds awesome! I'm just gonna hang out in the morning and then meet up with a dear friend in the late afternoon for a nice quiet dinner. I've got to work the day after, so I'm gonna try to get to bed early.
Thanks oodles and oodles for stopping by, dear lady!
Your comment made me smile!
((((((( You ))))))
X