My problem with fall planting of Oriental Lily Bulbs

I planted a large number of Oriental Lily bulbs in September of 2004. I had ordered these online from Country Gardens. The bulbs were large and healthy. They grew really well, reaching a height of 6-8 inches - we had a very mild fall and our killing frost was alot later than usual for zone 5. This year, everthing is coming up like a small blade of grass. Did all the energy from the bulbs go into the fall growth? Since the plant could not go throught its complete cylce of flowering and then putting energy back into the bulb, did I end up with a really tiny bulb that could only send up tiny shoots this spring? Will these probably take a long time to finally bloom? I don't know if I should contact the vendor and ask for compensation. In the past, I have always planted lily bulbs in the spring. I was under the impression that it was better to plant them in the fall. Thanks for your responses in advance. Ceil from Delanson, NY zone5

I hope someone comes along that can answer your question. I have planted in both Spring and Fall; with the later planting faring better.