September 26, 2008

The Big Bang Theory

I am willing to try anything once, especially for Prince Charming. OK, while this sounds like it could go in the wrong X-rated direction, I assure you this is much more spiritual than some Kinky Kiki home movie.

A few months ago we signed up to do a Gong Bath. Again, not what you are thinking. I didn’t really do much research since I consider myself to be a fly by the seat of my Spanx kinda gal. I just knew this would be right up Prince Charming’s path to enlightenment. The only thing you need to know is that there was a large gong and a lot of mallets. The intent is to cleanse your self in the sounds of the gong. Laugh all you want, but I decided to give this a try…with a somewhat open mind.

We got there early, thankfully. Prince Charming and I grabbed some blankies and pillows and I decided the center of the room had to be the best spot. We set up for our gong experience all the while talking his ear off. Just at that moment I was wondering if my incessant gabbing was worse or the big 5 foot gong we were about to experience??? In his usual fashion, Prince Charming lay quietly next to me and successfully zoned me out, a tactic I am quite accustomed to the longer we are married.

The Gong Master gave us some info on what we should expect. He explained that the sounds of the gong were believed to release energy through your feet…good thing I parked my Manolo’s outside. I don’t need any bad energy in my Manolo’s, now do I? Anyhow, the gong sound vibrates the energy meridians in the body and brings them into balance. We were instructed to lie in a comfortable position with our head toward the gong and to ensure that our feet did not face anyone’s head because they would receive all our bad stuff we were releasing. I have to admit, I was more than little skeptical. I completely buy that I have bad energy but flushing it out through my feet? Was that going to mess up my pedicure? I say nothing and lay perfectly still with my feet pointing at the outlet thinking my energy would get a jolt.

He then cautioned us that midway through the gong would become very loud almost frightening. What the hell did I get us into? He said that we needed to just work through that fear. Even though the gong will be extremely powerful, it is specifically calibrated to not hurt our eardrums. Are your flipping kidding me? I live in a house with four lunatic kids, two dogs, husband and aupair. Did I think I needed anymore noise…

Again, open mind and prepare for annoying loud gong. It started off quite nice, soothing in fact. Meditation is not something that comes naturally to me. I have to work at concentrating. They tell you to focus on your breathing and in no time you will relax and meditate. But if you are me, your mind drifts within 30 seconds…to pizza. Yes, I meditated quite well on some cheese and sausage pizza only to snap and realize I needed to get focused on releasing the bad energy out of my feet. The last thing I needed was swollen feet from trapped energy and none of my shoes fit. Back to my breathing and another 30 seconds later all I can think about is SEX. With Prince Charming next to me breathing heavy in his little Zen world, how was I not supposed to think about it? I decided that sex meditating had to bring about good energy thus pushing the bad way out.

Then, the gong begins to roar. This will definitely go down as one of my more bizarre experiences in my life. The gong was so loud and powerful; my body was shaking like bowl of jello out of control. Not the best body image I know but that is the only way to describe it. And he was correct; my body shaking like a bowl of jello scared the hell out of me. I was frightened and felt possessed by the gong not to mention I really needed to use the bathroom. I figured Prince Charming was loving the exorcism of bad energy and did my best not to let him feel my wiggle and jiggle. Slowly, the gong went back to a soothing harmony. By this time, I had moved onto sushi.

The gong stopped and we slowly sat up. I looked at Prince Charming with the biggest Buddha grin and knew I would have to come back to cleanse my chakras sometime soon.
I promised to think positive thoughts as long as we could head for the sushi bar. Much to my relief he said it was OK but glad he experienced it. I told him that our four little gongs at home were enough noise for me.

September 22, 2008

Plus One…

I have been called a lot of things in my time. KikiLu, Keeks, Mama Keeks…a few other choice words I will not admit to. But “Plus One” just might be the one title I don’t enjoy. Last Thursday evening was a party for Common Threads at Louis Vuitton on Michigan Avenue. My invitation got lost in the mail…if you know what I mean. No worries though because my friend, Beth, RSVPed for two.

Having been through the Jimmy Choo ordeal last summer, Common Threads was not taking any chances. Although, if I was able to get a small keychain out of being denied access to the Louis Vuitton party, I would have gladly been booted at the door. Common Threads called early Thursday concerned because they didn’t see my name on “the list”. OMG, THE LIST. They did, however, see Beth had a plus one and they wanted to make sure I was indeed the plus one. The easy going, down to earth KikiLu was fine with being the plus one for the evening. They wanted to make absolutely sure there was no repeat scene of the Jimmy Choo fiasco nor did they have any desire to send me another flower arrangement with apologies.

Beth and I made a quick appearance at a party at the Merchandise Mart for a newly renovated tile showroom. I popped a couple of chorizo stuffed dates from Avec, a swig of Champagne and we were out the door. I think some of the most unfriendly events are the interior design industry events. Unless you bring a small posse, everyone just glares at one another with no attempt to make nice. The only good thing about industry events for me is who caters and luckily for this one, Paul Kahan of Avec did the honors.

We took off for the Four Seasons to see Chef and relax for a drink before heading over to the scene at Louis. I was poised to make a small purchase for the good of charity and thought we should discuss my options. I was set on a keychain…how bad could that be? We chatted with chef and did the usual people watching in the lounge. I wanted to be safe that we were not the first eager socialites at the front door of Louis Vuitton. And I made sure to ask Beth that she did in fact reply YES for us both to which she responded…”Yes, you are the Plus One. It will be OK.”

We made our way across Michigan Avenue to the lady guarding The List. What a brutal job that is when you think about it. That poor girl is supposed to recognize everyone and turn away no one’s. Now that I am a regular at Common Threads events, I walked in to “it’s the plus one”!!! Funny, very funny. I was the official Plus One with no name for the evening. at the very least, there were no guards escorting me out.

Beth and I decided to get started on my key chain search. It hasn’t been that long since I shopped for a key chain or even in a Louis store for that matter. But at what point did key chains become $600??? Even I, KikiLu, the ultimate plus one had no sense in spending six hundred dollars on a freaking key chain. I choked on my little crab cake and moved on to crowd watching which brings me to the photographers at events. Every single event I attend, I watch as the same handful of socialites are photographed. It get’s boring pouring through CS and seeing the same people over and over again. Maybe, they should consider photographing some of the Plus One’s that show up religiously…just a thought.

August 4, 2008

Holy Guacamole…

So hard to write while on vacation but I can muster through the tequila induced stupor I have created. There has been a brief intermission between blogs…but this installation seems worthy of retelling.

It is time again for our bi-annual dysfunctional family vacation. Why, I ask, do we always agree on more together time. And when I really start to consider this issue, who even put those two words together- FAMILY + VACATION. After this past week, I am not sure it should be legal to use those two words in the same sentence.

Now for the actual specifics, we landed on sweaty, hot, spicy Puerto Vallarta in July. Yes, July in Mexico. I give full credit to the brilliant doctor in the family for this pick. We have been counting down the days for our return to Chi-town since the moment we stepped foot on terra firma. It is 95 degrees and 100 percent humidity. One of those places where you wonder if the shower is actually accomplishing anything. All eighteen of us have shacked up in the hills of Puerto Vallarta at a private residence with a staff. The food doesn’t get any more authentic nor do the margaritas. Judging by the ten bottles of tequila that we have consumed, they are damn good margaritas. However, mark my words; this will be the first trip I have lost weight on. We have dubbed this family adventure “poo-limia”. We eat…and well…run for the toilet. Not pleasant I know, but think how we all feel having to endure not only a violent case of poo-limia but also each other with no where to go.

I must admit, the view is quite lovely for the villas. The actual beach, however, requires boots to get through the rocks, shall I say, rough terrain. Needless to say, we have all agreed that the infinity pool might be the way to go this week. Most of our time has been spent…hmmm….well doing nothing. And if you know me, I am not very good at doing NOTHING. People are replying to my emails asking why I am not “on vacation”. If they only knew. One sis-in-law has read every book in the villa. The other has diagnosed every illness we might possibly have or get over the next several years. We sit in the pool showing her spots to see if she thinks they are cancer. And the kids, well, running the show considering eight adults have had 10 bottles of tequila in 7 days.

We did manage to go on the Zip Line tour in the rain forest that was not only fun but included 12 very cute Mexicano guides. They had one guide in charge of filming the adventure that would ride the line backwards and called this the “sexy ride”. He would wrap his legs around yours to stay close and film you zipping down. When he tried for a third “sexy ride” with my fourteen year old I waved him off claiming she is illegal and they needed to pick a mom more interested. My sister in law was happy to fill in for us. A family swim with dolphins was the finale of our trip and well worth it. While our papa bear wouldn’t totally agree, the big kids (us) and the little kids (our offspring) thought it was well worth a couple thousand dollars for my dad to spend on an activity for the afternoon. He especially loved that we needed and had to have the twenty five dollar per image photos that were taken. I mean, how were we supposed to take pictures while in the water frolicking with the dolphins? And geez, there were only 14 of us swimming.

Every day, our butler, Jesus and cook, Olga, would have us select what we would eat the next day. We would all sit around full arguing what would be the next thing we could all agree on eating. Olga was an amazing, authentic cook of her cuisine. We especially loved the afternoon guacamole and salsa. But I can honestly say, if I see one more ounce of guacamole...I will turn green. I snuck into the kitchen each meal to figure out how she was making her sauces. She would explain it in Spanish and I would nod as though it all made sense. My sister in law made sure each day that she use filtered water. By the end of the week, our weak little American tummies just gave in. and we thought we saved the best for last, Mole sauce. This is a pretty smart bunch, but leaving the Mole to last was not the wisest decision we have all made as a group. The mole put us all over the edge and every bathroom was occupied until we left for the airport. Of course, Prince Charming is bragging how he lost more weight than I did even though I was far sicker than he.

We just got back to Chicago and the kids couldn’t wait to eat something other than Mexican food. At the airport they were negotiating with each other what we should pick up. After we left baggage and customs, I kissed everyone good bye and urged them not to call until thanksgiving unless there was an emergency! I wasn't all together surprised when my brother called to get the margarita recipe I had mentioned in the pool the day after getting back. OMG, can he actually be drinking more margaritas??? I was sick just telling him how to make the simple syrup.

And just our luck, when we got home the dogs were so excited to see us…they had diarrhea!!!

July 31, 2008

Get Smart, Dumb A$$

I was so excited for this past weekend. Prince Charming and I were checking out of reality and staying in the city for two nights. We explicitly told the kids they were not allowed to do anything that could endanger them and ruin our get away. Little Mama was on call for any slight mishap provided a physician was not needed. I am happy to report, we all pulled it off.

Friday night Prince Charming and I agreed to do what we rarely get to do as parents of four children…go to the movies. We downed a mojito at the lounge in the W Lakeshore and walked over to the theatre to see Get Smart. I decided to head to the bathroom before it started because I hate people who interrupt the middle of the film and happen to be sitting dead center of the aisle. Very distracting.

When it comes to female restrooms, there are sitters or squatters. Growing up, my mother always instilled in me how filthy public restrooms are and never to touch or sit on anything in a bathroom, thus I am a squatter since four. To this day, I am a freak about public facilities. Not much therapy can do for that phobia and I would like to thank my mother for my freakish nature. Anyhow, I had on a cute swing top, cropped jeans and my brand new Patent Blue YSL shoes. But these shoes happen to be 5 inch cork wedges with about 2 inches in front. These babies are skyscrapers…and for the record completely comfortable. Rushing in the bathroom, I tucked my Jimmy Choo clutch under my chin and tried to balance in my wedges while keeping my swing top in the clear. Thinking I had this down from years of practice as a squatter, I realized as I stood up that I completely missed the toilet. I had hit the seat which leaked directly onto the back of my jeans. Now normally I would not tell this story. But you get to a point where you just have to laugh at yourself. There I was, in a stall completely decked out trying to figure how I was going to carry off a big wet spot on the back of my jeans. So much for date night. I did my best to dry it off and assumed the shirt would cover the rest. Prince Charming was not so amused at my potty-capades. I was hoping this was not a sign of things to come for the rest of the weekend. Oh, the movie, hysterical. I love Steve Carell.

We spent the next morning at separate spa appointments. But little did Prince Charming know I had planned more than he asked for. When he showed up, spa girl informed him that a massage was scheduled but he also had a second appointment for “brow maintenance”. I think he gave her some “omg, my wife did not really do this to me” mumbo jumbo. I decided that his bald head and bushy brows need to have more balance. He reluctantly went along with it and talked about his spa therapist like she was his new BF. When he returned to the room, he tried to play it off as though he hated it. Paleeze! I know he is committing himself to the whole manscaping thing going forward.

That evening we met some friends for drinks at Trump Tower. We had reserves at the new Sixteen in Trump Tower. I wanted so badly to hate the place. I called it the “comb over” the entire night. But really, the “comb over” was quite impressive. The food was good even though it was outrageously expensive for the sake of being over the top. The view is amazing in the dining room. And our timing was perfect because we saw the fireworks at Navy Pier while eating. Trump sure knows his real estate because it was a knock out view.

Sunday was even lazier with a long walk on the lakeshore. It was almost time to return to reality but we stretched it out as long as we could. It never fails that when we get home it was like we were never gone. Kids running around half clothed, all the doors flung open, and they want to know what I am cooking for dinner. I think I muttered that we need to get away soon for a serious vacation.

June 5, 2008

It...

Some people just have it. Don’t ask me what “it” is because it is different for everyone. I believe people are born with “it” even though it takes them awhile to recognize. For me, finding my “it” took awhile. But here I am feeling like I finally arrived to fill my own fancy shoes. It has been a busy week and a half and smashing parties…

We went to the pre- opening of the new restaurant Graham Elliot last Sunday night. Graham has “it” in a major way. I am positive he knows and is well aware of his talent in the kitchen. Hearing it from me isn’t going to make or break his day but I will tell all anyhow. The space is clean leaving the diner to concentrate on the food. Prince Charming and I did just that…I was completely focused on the cheddar cheese risotto! So much so that I was not inclined to share it with the rest of our table. Every course was fantastic. I typically don’t order dessert but since it was part of the experience I decided to indulge. Yummy factor ranks high in the dessert category at Graham Elliot. If I had to guess, Graham is going to be a hard reservation to snag this summer. I will be back as soon as it fully opens…I need to test out the rest of the menu as well as what’s shakin’ at the bar with the mixologist.

Now I am not one to pat myself on the back but the much anticipated opening of the showhouse I worked on opened last week. For one, I feel like I can sleep easy now. Over 600 people showed up to the opening…can anyone say “gridlock in the gallery”. I decided not to wear a name tag for the first hour to hear what people were saying. Thankfully, it all sounded positive. We have had a great response already and hopefully many more people will take the time to visit the house. You can see the products I used on our site under The Scottish Manor link.

As a reward to myself, I went to see Sex in the City on Saturday night with some of my girlies. LOVED it. I don’t think there is a woman on earth that doesn’t identify with at least one of those women. Need I say anything about who I relate to most as I sit here typing in my strappy shoes? I was hilarious to see all these women decked out with hats, shoes and outfits – completely over the top. I admit, I too was more dressed up than most movie openings. I only wish I had taken pictures of some of the crazy stuff I saw people wearing. My favorite was a woman with her hair slicked back and some dead vine looking head piece wrapped all around her head. Ok – I fully support creative expression but the dead vine was a bit much.

Art shows are getting ready to start in the city…my favorite time of year. I plan to attend as many as I can drag my little guy to this weekend and next.Art shows with a four year old...should be interesting. Check in for the latest art news over the next couple of weeks.

May 20, 2008

Hungry Like the Wolf…


Been awhile but here I am out on the town with bells on. I figure it might be beneficial to get back into blogging before the spring party season begins. I do have some good stuff coming up and I have been out recently but too lazy, old and tired to write. At the urging of friends who like to create more work for KikiLu, my blogging begins again…NOW.

Uh, did we not love the 80’s? I mean the clothes, the hair and those British bands. When I found out Duran Duran was coming, I needed a blast from the past. Little did I know how old I would feel once I showed up and women in their forties were piling out of their mini-vans – very scary for me. I was feeling slightly sorry for Kiki but kept reminding myself that I just had my hair blown out and I was wearing sexy Prada shoes. Somehow, the shoes make me feel better when I am surrounded by mini-vans.

Prince Charming and I decided to head to the concert early and have drinks before hand, along with the other 100 people who had that same novel idea. Needless to say, I landed two seats in the crowded bar at Gibson’s with two guys “working” over a beer. It’s funny how Prince Charming shakes his head at me as I squirm my way in almost anywhere…it didn’t stop him from copping a squat with two strangers.

Finally at the venue, we hunkered down for a good 30 minutes of people watching. Whew what the burbs drag out – again, very scary for me. There is a point that you get too old for mid-drift baring tops. Hello, when did the love handles hanging over the sides of your jeans come in style? On the way back from a pit stop, I ran into Eric from Eric and Kathy morning show (my favorite radio show of course!) I guess you shouldn’t judge a person by their billboard because I was expecting a guy at least 6’4”. He is a cute guy but he probably thought I was a freak that I even recognized him.

A few nights before Duran Duran I surprised Prince Charming for his birthday with tickets to the symphony. See, I do it all – from the symphony to Duran Duran, I am so well rounded. Anyhow, I decided to go all out on a fashion limb. I wore a swanky metallic low cut dress with some strappy VERY HIGH black Calvin Klein shoes (all the rage). Before leaving my daughter asked “what’s with the stripper look” and my reply was “I must look good”. I knew I had done something right when I pulled up at the valet of the W Hotel downtown for dinner when four guys were falling all over themselves to help me get out of the car. They then paid for my little Prius to stay out front. It wasn’t until I was inside that I realized they most likely thought I was a hooker! OMG…how awesome is that outfit. I got my parking paid for and Prince Charming once again was left shaking his head. I need not describe the look on every 80 year old at the symphony when I showed up!

And a few nights before that, Dennis and I decided to do the “Gold Coast Crawl”. If you ever want the perfect evening for KikiLu it would have to be the “GCC”. We started at NoMi’s in the Park Hyatt - my very favorite terrace. The terrace is absolutely the best place for cocktails. We then paced ourselves down to Le Coloniel for the next shaker full of yummy beverages. When the scene started to get too cramped for my liking we headed down to pay a visit to Art Smith at Table 52. Seeing as I have gotten chummy with my friend Art Smith, one would assume that I have eaten at the restaurant…but NO I had not. Leave it to Dennis to order half the menu. Don’t get me started with the biscuits. Since we sat at the bar, I was able to beg for a second helping. I had a hankering for the pork chop and it was the best chop I have ever eaten. FABUOULS CHOPS Art…KikiLu will be back for more. Oh, and that Hummingbird Cake that Lady O loves…Kiki loves it too.

Coming up this weekend is the much awaited opening of Graham Elliot. Graham was the executive chef at the Peninsula in Chicago. Seeing as my fourth child should be named after the hotel (too much sake at Avenues = Number Four)…I am looking forward to dining at his first solo venture. Make sure to check back for the details.
http://grahamelliot.com/

January 23, 2008

Dancing queens and Marc on the block…

Yes, it has been awhile since the last blog…last year in fact. Whew, 2008 started off with a bigger bang than I expected. Those black eyed peas Little Mama makes us eat every year may really have something going for them. I am very excited about the new project I am working on with Pickell Builders. I was asked to do all of the interiors on a monster showhouse…The Scottish Manor. It’s big, it’s beautiful and I am bouncing around the office with deadlines and other ongoing projects. Keep checking the website for Manor News and the grand opening. Yet another reason to shop for shoes! Prince Charming will need to support the Opening Shoe night purchase.

Last week has to be top on my list of things I have seen. Big D tended to my hair before our night out at the ballet. This wasn’t any ballet. We attended Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo– an all male ensemble in DRAG! I was thoroughly amused while my date was over it in 45 minutes. At least, I knew there would be no line for the ladies room. These dancers are amazing at their craft and find a way to parody a serious ballet in full tutus and plumes in their rendition of The Dying Swan. As a fan of the original Swan Lake, it was incredible to see these men on pointe yet hysterical because of their flamboyant stage presence. I guess when you are gay and not into drag queens, sitting through The Dying Swan is droll. Either that or it doesn’t take much to entertain me! Anyhow, we left at intermission for our typical late night feast at Custom House.

The next night I was totally geared up for another type of feast…The Fashion Feast. Thanks to my good friends at Common Threads I snagged an invite to the Marc Jacobs party. What a surprise, he showed up with 200 employees from his New York entourage. Really, not too over the top. And everyone gives me a hard time that I can’t go anywhere alone? The party was in honor of the much awaited opening of his new boutique in Bucktown, Chicago. Not a chance I was missing this event. I knew it was going to be a scene beyond all others. What I didn’t know is that it was basically an import party from New York which made the people watching even more interesting. There is no ceiling on fashion faux pas with New Yorkers…anything goes. They seated Marc in the center of this huge loft and all of the tables around him were his peeps. The outer rim of tables was the scraggly few from Chicago including me and Little Mama. I think our small representation from the Windy City cleaned up pretty darn nice. I attempted to talk to Marc but it was clear I was invading his east coast space. I decided to hit the bathroom which is where you always find the most interesting people at a party. While in the stall, I was listening to a gaggle of young girls checking out someone’s leather tights. I yanked my tights up quickly to make sure I got to cop a feel of the leather legs as well. I must admit, they were trashy but daring, not sure I could pull off the superhero look.

For the most part, attending these swanky parties it is not uncommon to feel like the outsider. But I have the experience to write about. And Marc was not jumping at the chance to hang with KikiLu…so made it home early.

December 7, 2007

Holiday Cheer for me and the queer…

While the title of this blog may offend some, I say it with love. And it couldn’t be more fitting after the two holiday parties I attended last night. Again, only love from my words.

With Mr. Scissors (Dennis) by my side and the perfect holiday dress we started the evening at The Merchandise Mart for the Chicago Magazine party at The Chopping Block. First let me say, brilliant to host a small event there…hello, it’s a cooking school so the food had to be yummy! Both Dennis and I made a b-line for the food table. However, I made sure to follow the rules of how to nibble without eating 10,000 calories-advice I read in a fashion magazine somewhere along the line. Every fashionista needs to know how to nibble – a skill I learned at a very young age. I did, of course, indulge in one peanut butter cookie dough ball dipped into chocolate fondue. After chatting for a few we had to move on to the next party.

We zipped over in my Prius (the little speed demon) to the Museum of Contemporary Art’s warehouse on the west side of the city. Maybe I watch too much TV but I certainly felt like I had just walked into a reality show with every guest hoping to be the center of attention, KikiLu included. Every black clad hipster was lined up to get in. However, the space itself got me all jazzed. A large section of the building houses different art collections for the MCA. Who do I need to talk to for a private tour of that place? Attached to it is a huge loft where CS Interiors Magazine hosted their launch party for their premiere issue. So, here is where we arrive at the queer part of my story. There are two components to this crowd…young trendy women & gay men. Yup, that’s it. The shocking part here is not that I write about gay men but that I still consider myself young and trendy, right? This mix usually equals a fabulous party and last night I can’t imagine that anyone was disappointed. It sure makes for great people watching until you realize that people are watching right back at ya. Not such a good thing when you are shoving one more meatball with spicy mustard sauce in! Back to the rules of nibbling…

The décor was done in small vignettes with furniture donated by stores and vendors from around the city. The most inventive of rooms was done with a bunch of toilets and a bathtub with glass on top as a coffee table. While a little shocking, every toilet was taken and I couldn’t snag a seat. Dennis had no interest in copping a squat on a toilet for a cocktail so we moved on to standard seating. After standing around for quite awhile trying to figure out if every good looking guy there was gay, I desperately needed to visit the ladies room to hike up my leggings that were pretty close to my knees at this point. Word to the wise when navigating through a crowded loft party, you may want to pay attention to the floor as there are many surprise dips and bumps. Not saying I fell but it was pretty darn close. After a good yank on the leggings I was over the scene and ready to move on again. The Speed Demon was pulled up and we zipped over to the new Brasserie Ruhlmann. Gee, what a surprise another city scene. Now that we were alone at a table tucked away in a corner, I could toss out the nibbling rules and truly nosh on a plate of food.

November 26, 2007

Vacation Nation

Whose idea was it to call a vacation a vacation? There should be rules in order to use that word. Taking four kids to Mexico does not qualify! A trip, yes…a vacation NO. Like any loving mother, I ADORE my babies but let’s face it a week confined to one resort with my four monkeys might bring on a little stress.

Family friends of ours, The Burkett Bunch, had the courage to go away with us. They are smart, healthy, loving, organized and mild mannered. What the heck were they thinking, right? In our family, we are some of those qualities but definitely not all of them and most definitely not at the same time. They made me want to tame my children but I hoped for the best for their sake. I honestly pitied them most nights at dinner. By the time we got our luggage and buckled into the van to head to the resort, the Burkett Bunch bet how long it would take before everyone knew our rambunctious three year old Mr. T. Suffice to say most knew him within 24 hours including the bartender at the pool.

Here is what the Burkett Bunch had to put up with: we had one sick five year old for the entire week who dressed in full clothing on a lounge chair…major drama. The teen was worried her tan would disappear if the sun didn’t shine for like, omg like five minutes…like what the heck, I thought this was like Mexico and the sun like always shines. No, really she talks that way. Believe me, we heard it for like 24/7. I remind myself when responding to her that I too do not need to use the word ‘like” for every other word. Prince Charming found it quite interesting how one person could use the same word in one sentence as many times as she did. Clearly he doesn’t get being a 13 year old girl and how much stress it like causes.

This was just the female half of our posse. The boys can only be described with one word – ENERGY. Something I thought I genuinely had until I chased around the three year old by the pool with his wanky hanging out. It was hot out so why wouldn’t he want it hanging out to get air. It made sense to him. Prince Charming and I were like a bad version of tag team with this little guy. Not even a margarita made it seem appealing. Our second oldest child actually found joy in the waves which was our saving grace of the week.

During certain points of the trip, I would realize that the two Burkett Bunch kids were sitting with their mouths hanging open watching my kids. There were probably times when I also had my mouth hanging open looking at my own kids. What is that saying…jumping in with your feet first? That is kinda what our vacations are like…feet first and everything else just follows. Nothing disastrous just a lot of chasing down and keeping up. Well, I take part of that back, Mr. T did completely flood a restaurant bathroom the last night. We had to pay and get out quick because the amigos didn’t look so happy when Mr. T exited the men’s room. For the record, we left a better tip.

In the end, Prince Charming and I are always glad we provide our children with worldly experiences. I traveled all over growing up and I want my kids to feel like they go into their adult life not too surprised by what is out there. The teen got her tan, the adventure boy got to swim in a sink hole, the wise five year old stayed under her thatch umbrella and then there is Mr. T… Mr. T did it all and enjoyed every minute. And now I am back at work to relax and chill out.

October 19, 2007

Not the last laugh…

Good days and bad days…we all have them. But some of the busy days are so hectic I lose track of just about everything. For me, that is a good problem to have. I honestly stress when there is a lull in my life. Pathetic right? Even the blog is behind but not for lack of material to write about. It just happens to be busy season at K-Haus and event season for practically everyone. Parties, dinners and holidays are all upon us. Here is the KikiLu lowdown for some recent outings.

This past weekend I attended a business trip for Prince Charming up at Kohler, Wisconsin. We were treated to a weekend of relaxation and whatever activities we desired. A very extravagant gesture for the spouses and one I was happy to indulge in. I thought it would work out best if I just camped out in the spa while Prince Charming had to work. Saturday I spent a good part of the day doing just that. I adore lounging in a bathrobe and plastic flip flops while sipping lemon water. While I am not the best at sitting still a spa is the one place I can waste the day away doing pretty much nothing. I would, however, like to offer my services to the Kohler family in order to get the rooms and suites up to snuff in the design world. I think the 80’s went out, well, in ’89. Time for a facelift.

A few days ago Prince Charming and I attended a pig roast at DelaCosta on behalf of Common Threads (see blog: six degrees of oprah). DelaCosta is one of those places that just can’t help being cool. Adam the chef oozes cool with all his tattoos and charming personality. But I have blogged about him before and won’t carry on again. Great event and always a fun crowd. Of all the chefs’ tables, Art Smith gets my award for top nosh that evening. I am just a sucker for good pork tenderloin. FYI: We are gearing up for our event on November 12 here at K-Haus benefitting Common Threads. Make sure to check out the site next week where info will be posted. I am always a stressaholic when planning an event.

And finally, I popped into an event last night at the Bloomingdales home store for Thomas O’Brien. It always helps to stop at Dennis’ salon before an event and get the hair snipped and blowed out. Having fabulous hair for any event is so important, just as important as the shoes. I thought for sure I would get my picture snapped for the new magazine CS Interiors. But no such luck…not a photographer in site. And I had such great props…two dates. Dennis and Stevie G, one of his stylists at the salon, were out on the town with me. I didn’t know ahead of time the hilarity that would ensue. At one point, the caterer was serving us these clever little bites…a tray full of mini forks with a small piece of scallop pierced on the end. I tasted one and politely asked if I could snag one more only to realize that Stevie G was shoving as many as he could while balancing his drink and gathering quite the collection of silver. I wanted to remind him that we were not playing a card game of forks this early in the evening. The caterer realized she was going to need to head back to the kitchen and replenish her tray after leaving our hungry little circle. Together we decided it was probably time to move onto to Joe’s Stone Crab. I truly laughed so hard all evening that I convinced myself I was burning calories as we ate dinner. I think it is what they call…LAUGHING YOUR ASS OFF. This, I have decided, is the benefit of having such great company. Laughing should be considered medicinal because it just works for me.

October 4, 2007

This little piggy goes to market…

I haven’t been to furniture market in High Point, North Carolina in awhile. But I am here now and feeling very much on the edge of a trend. What trend you ask? I haven’t decided just yet. Let’s see, there is red in all variations, matte brass and a lot of driftwood looking items. Hang on…we should start from the beginning.

I was supposed to arrive early Tuesday. But thanks to the reliable airlines, I arrived 12 hours later than planned. But at least I got to people watch in O’Hare twice! And boy does the second time around and a stop at Berghoff’s bar make a big difference.

I thought for a second that maybe I missed the memo on costume day at the airport. There I was under dressed in jeans and a cute shirt. I passed “little house on the prairie” as well as “Dalai Lama” all in one concourse. I was completely fascinated with little house on the prairie. She was in full garb including the bonnet that my mother made me wear when I was four. Little Mama, I know you remember that one. I thought the Amish didn’t indulge in modern technology…unless of course the plane was being pulled by horse which in my case the time frame of when I arrived seemed to make sense. I am not sure that she was Amish, I assumed. And I have since gone online to google “Amish” only to find no pictures probably because they don’t allow their photos to be taken. They do however, fly United.

Something all you bloggers should know about KikiLu. I HATE traveling alone and this trip…I was flying solo. The flying part I am fine. It’s the going out to dinner and hanging out part that I require a full posse. But the K-Haus gang was unavailable to indulge my every whim.

Market itself has been interesting. I always enjoy finding new products to bring back to K-Haus, and that I did. I also enjoy all the Southern Belles walking around in 3” heels like it doesn’t hurt. My favorite part of market, however, is the B&B that we stay in. It is my hidden gem of Greensboro. Thus, I don’t risk giving out the location and not being able to get a room in the future! The Inn keeper cooks breakfast every morning loaded with carbs and all the good fat! My nutritionist Barb would probably not agree but I keep trying to convince her that all fat is good on some level. Having to travel alone, the inn is my saving grace. It’s kind of like getting the honeymoon suite without the honey.

Dinners aren’t so much fun when you have to pretend to read the paper while listening to the table next to you. It would make it a heck of a lot easier if people would just speak up. I now have a few regular places I like to dine in Greensboro. I was totally bummed when I went to one of my favorite Vietnamese places and the waiter was a punk Asian guy with absolutely no manners. Who the heck is rude to a single diner ordering a whole bottle of wine? I mean that is just pathetic…the whole bottle of wine of course. Anyhow, all was better when I dined out this evening and was carded by my waiter “the dude”. He said “like can I see your id or something”. Seriously, I said. “Well, yeah cuz they are crackin’ down and I even carded that guy over there” as he pointed to a 65 year old man. I was quick to tell him he would have secured a bigger tip had he not pointed out grandpa he carded for a beer. He did seem to convince me he thought I was 28. I will take that even if he was lying to make up for his mistake.

September 10, 2007

Mind your manners at the Manor…

I wasn’t about to pass up a party in the country at The Manor of Bill Kurtis and his significant other Donna. The charity event was held for the Green City Market along with 11 chefs providing tasting tables. Chef had a table so, I didn’t want to miss anything.

Panic set in when Javie phoned before the party saying we might need to attend in boots with our dresses because the property might be messy like last year. She didn’t want me upset that my little paws got dirty. Javie was trying to sell me on this whole boots and baubles look. How very Ralph Lauren but not so en vogue for me. Thankfully, the property was dry and proper shoes were worn by all. I left my hot pink wellies tucked away for a rainy day.

The drive back to the property was beautiful and pulling up to the home was even more stunning. This was a “town & country” scene like no other. The graveled circular entrance was impressive enough for me. The entire place has an old English feel and the crowd fit right in.

I found Javie and Chef right away. I hate going to a party and trying to sift through the crowd to find your posse. He greeted me with a tasty from his table. Then, I insisted I get a full portion of the grilled cheese he was serving along side heirloom tomatoes. Always happy to satisfy my every whim, Chef had the boys whip us up a whole grilled cheese laden in butter. YUM- Butter, fancy cheese and crusty bread…hungry just thinking about it.

Javie and I walked the close perimeter of the property and took some glam shots sitting by the Zen pond. Bill even waved to us from his touring cart as we sipped our cocktails pretending to own the place. We decided to give up our prime spot and get the scoop on the interiors. As we stood in the foyer, we heard some guests as they descended from their visit upstairs. They were ooohing over “her” library since Bill’s is downstairs. So, basically, they each have their own library which we clearly needed to check out. We moseyed on up as though we belonged dropping Bill's name like a good ole buddy of ours. And my oh my was her library worth sneaking up. It had two sets of spiral stairs up to a third level with lord knows what. I tried to convince Javie to be more daring and tiptoe up but that didn’t fly. We did, however, venture down the hall to check out the open doors. When we found a bathroom I, of course, needed to make sure it worked! But serves me right because it wasn’t until another guest came into the bedroom did I realize that my dress was tucked in to my undies. NO,I am not making this up. Luckily, my back was to the wall. Javie needed to pull out the tulle all tucked in around my tushy before we made our exit. Right then her cell phone rang with Chef on the other end wondering where we were…we skedaddled downstairs for the auction.

We hung out with all of the chefs in the entrance while the live auction was held in the living room. Carrie Nahabedian tried to convince me to bid on the Alaskan Cruise she donated. Unless she wanted to take me in as a wayward child, I was not going home to Prince Charming to tell him I spent thousands to eat king crab legs fresh out of the Alaskan waters with Miss Carrie. I tried to rationalize the spending but knew I would be in divorce court had I handed over a check!

Sadly, we had to get our cars from the valet and find our way back to reality.
I will dream of grilled cheese and the gravel driveway for the entire year…

August 15, 2007

Around the country in 20 days…

Traveling sure takes its toll on the body…along with getting old of course. I have been back and forth from the west coast to the east coast over the last 3 weeks. I couldn’t actually tell you what day of the month it is, just somewhere in the middle of August. Whew, does my Pilates instructor have her work cut out for her when I return.

I convinced Javie to go with me to check out the Vegas market for a few days. It is safe to say, we won’t be going back to Vegas for that show. We did, however, manage to find all the boutiques and their fabulous sales. Remember Jimmy Whoo? I vowed not to buy any until we happened upon the 50% off sale and I caved in. What can I say, I am easily swayed and they go perfectly with my clutch they gave me. We also met up with a friend from Chicago who is commuting to work in Vegas during the week. Rough job for Davey Vegas. Javie and I caught up with him for two nights and Davey Vegas proved to be quite entertaining with his animated stories…something about honey, butter and how to snag a date. All I know is we attracted a lot of attention from the other patrons. Laughing the loudest can do that. He brought us to Tangerine in Treasure Island where the show isn’t quite so kid-friendly anymore. We were seated in the VIP area - that is until we got booted because someone more important showed up. This must be a reoccurring theme for me…I am so over the “guest list”. But we certainly chuckled the whole way out of the roped off area.

I then left for our yearly dysfunctional family vacation at the beach in South Carolina. Did I say vacation? Why does anyone consider going away with your entire family and staying in the same house with nine kids a VACATION??? We need to fine tune that one or KikiLu may have plans next year.

If that wasn’t enough, I flew into O’Hare on Sunday where Prince Charming met me with another suitcase packed for New York. I swapped him four kids for my other baggage and off I went to NY for a buying trip. The notion of being jet set and glamorous ain’t all it’s cracked up to be. I am positive Davey Vegas would agree with me on that one.

But here I am, making the best of it and being productive. Besides, how much can I really complain when my hairdresser, Big D, came with me to eat our way through the week? My Hollywood hair is in top notch condition and we have dined from uptown to downtown like professional foodies. Everyday is like our last meal and Big D needs his nap every afternoon to prepare for his next feeding.

I have met with editors, old bosses and my long lost friend Patty. It has been a busy few weeks and well worth it. But I am more than ready to get home to Prince Charming and my four monkeys!

July 10, 2007

Choo the fat…

Remember when you were a kid and you would count down the days until you would go to the amusement park? So maybe it’s a stretch but hey, as a full grown girlie girl the “Jimmy Choo Experience” is somewhat close to that notion. The day finally arrived. Javie and I arrived with gusto. Me in my Prada and Javie in her Valentino – we were pulling it all out for Jimmy. And why wouldn’t we? What if we were tossed out on our labeled tushie’s in the middle of Oak Street again? I would need to stomp off in designer heels. But that didn’t happen. This is a short but sweet story.

The land of Whooville was welcoming and gracious that we accepted their belated invitation. And just like the major sucking up scene from Pretty Woman, we too were treated like the upper crust of the gold coast. Everyone happy, everyone smiling… lunching ladies trying on the latest collection. We swapped pleasantries for a mere ten minutes before thanking them and announcing our departure. I mean, I wasn’t ready to drop some change on fall shoes just yet. As we were headed out, I heard those magic words…”oh, just a minute, we have a gift for you both.” But you shouldn’t have Ms. Jimmy Choo.

We made sure to turn the corner of Oak Street before we ripped into our precious little goodie bags. I could not resist, Javie and I made a bet who could guess the goodie! I, of course, won the bet and she had to buy the Starbucks. We each received a lovely mini patent leather clutch with a gold buckle on the front. I was so hoping for the gold buckle! Next time, I pray we get kicked out of a Manolo party and have to experience him a few weeks later.

June 17, 2007

Jimmy Whoo?

I am a shoe girl, yes I am.
I like them here
I like them there
I do like them anywhere.
I do like them in a box.
I do like them without socks.
I like no names
I like a label
Now let me tell you
A little fable…

Once upon a time, I received a much awaited invitation in the mail. It arrived in a big oversized silver square envelope (ya know, the ones that require extra postage). There on the return address was JIMMY CHOO. Jimmy Whoo you ask?

I carefully slit open the shiny silver envelope and slid out the invite. There on a clean soft sheet I was being invited to THE opening party at Jimmy Choo on Oak Street in Chicago to benefit a charity I support. Sheer Joy for my little world. Everyone at K-Haus was excited for me. But what would I wear?

Immediately, I phoned Javie. I felt like Cinderella getting invited to the ball. But Javie was quick to remind me to leave my Manolo’s at home…or else she wouldn’t walk in with me. It should be obvious that Manolo and Jimmy don’t get along.

Monday before the event, I realized I hadn’t RSVPed. I called right away to the Oak Street Store and spoke to the friendliest little Whoo Elf there. He assured me there would be no problems when I arrived. Just let the bruisers at the door know that I spoke to the special Whoo Elf and I would be let right in. Ok Whoo Elf, thanks for all of your help.

There we were, waiting outside on Oak Street. I knew this didn’t look good for me when I saw the crowd and the camera crew. And quite honestly, I am not accustomed to getting turned away at the door. But I got the hang of it pretty darn quick that night. The Black Clad Bruisers were more than pleased to turn away anyone not on the “List”. If I had to hear the word LIST one more time, I was going to poke someone in the eye with my silver heel. “I am sorry, you are not on the LIST”… “I am sorry, you only RSVPed for one on the LIST”. The whole list thing creeps me out. K-Haus is not allowed to have any list for any parties ever. I put it down on my “how not to throw a party” list.

As I walked to the front, I didn’t even bother to give them my name. I immediately asked for the Whoo Elf I had talked to the day before. I explained that I was definitely not on the list but he assured me it was not going to be a problem. How could he forget KikiLu? Word to the wise, when the Elf tells you it will be fine…IT WON’T. As a grown woman, I am not inclined to beg my way into any party. I didn’t do it in college and I wasn’t staring now. But these Bruisers were asking for it. They had no interest in any conversation from the day before. Our next attempt was to send Javie in to find the Elf which she promptly did. HiHo, HiHo, it’s off to work she goes… She lured him to the door to try and help our cause. Did he not realize that Cinderella was at the door ready to try on every freakin’ glass slipper Jimmy Whoo makes? Surely that would make a difference. At this point, Chef had showed up and the evening was looking grim. The Elf didn’t even make it out past the door to see who needed his approval. Javie was flustered and hot. How fitting for the shoe salon to be the size of a shoe box. Apparently, it was a little hot inside.

Chef noticed someone from the charity that he thought could work some magic. She too encouraged the Whoo Elf to allow us into the party. The poor fairy was mortified that Chef, Javie and Kiki were being banished from the event. Even this little fairy couldn’t spin it in our direction. The Whoo Elf, like any evil villain, wasn’t going to let us into the celebration.

By the next morning, the little fairy had spread word all over the kingdom that KikiLu had been exiled from the Jimmy Whoo party. Beautiful flowers arrived at my house along with emails and phone calls from the charity. A couple of months went by and Jimmy Whoo finally called to apologize for the “confusion”. Confusion? Who is confused other than the evil Elf? I had an invite. He told me to come to the bash. I did. He refused me. I left. Doesn’t sound all that confusing to me.

Yet now, they have requested my presence at the boutique to present me and Javie with the official Jimmy Choo experience. Jimmy Whoo I say? Do I get a pair of glass slippers or what???

Let’s hope Marc Jacobs arrives in better style. And how could I pass up the Jimmy Choo experience…only better to blog about later.