COTE DE TEXAS: Changes: Anniversary Presents Now and Then:

Changes: Anniversary Presents Now and Then:

 

image You know when you buy something and it’s just not “right” from the beginning.  Well………when I bought my sofa and chairs a few years ago, the day they were delivered, I took one look at the slipcovers and had to stop myself from crying.  I could see immediately that my new, fresh, white linen slipcovers had NOT been washed prior to being made!  Needless to say, I was devastated.  And shocked.  And beyond angry.  You see, the person who made them knew better.  I mean, how many slipcovers had she  made before mine?  Hundreds?  Thousands?    And what really added fuel to the fire was that waiting in my garage were 40 yards of freshly washed white linen that I had bought just for the job.   I didn’t use that fabric because  the slipcover person had already gone and ordered the fabric herself, so I kept my washed linen for a future client.  Thinking over my options - I didn’t know whether I should send all the furniture back the next day, or try to wash the slips myself and see how much they shrank.  After much discussion, getting nowhere fast,  I just decided to forget it for a while and deal with it, like Scarlett, on another day.  When the time came to wash the slips for the first time  (because with white linen – that time DOES come!)   I used  cold water, and dried them in a barely warm dryer and put them back on damp, while trying to stretch the fabric.   Of course they shrank,  but they did still fit – barely:   the cushions were so tight that the bottom one wouldn’t lay flat.  I always knew it would have to all be redone down the road so eventually I called Shabby Slips to come to my rescue.  

 

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Here you can plainly see on the chair – how short the slips had gotten.  The slip is barely covering the upholstered muslin.   The long bottom cushion on the sofa was so tight it wouldn’t lay flat.   You can see how it is sticking up on the right side of the sofa.   Also – here you can see the original button detailing on the back of the chair.

 

Luck finally came my way when Shabby Slips sent their seamstress to my house to fit my new slips.  I didn’t even have to send my furniture to them!  Heaven!  They cut the fabric on the furniture right  at my house.   And since I already had the washed linen in my garage, I saved a fortune.  A week later they delivered my nice new slips which fit like a glove and had rows of charming ties instead of buttons.  Thank you Shabby Slips – nothing beats dealing with the best!    I tell you all this because I want you to learn from my mistakes.   RULE:  never make slipcovers without washing the denim or linen first!  The only exception to this is if the material is a blend and won’t shrink OR if you plan to dry clean your slipcovers instead of washing them.   My situation was neither, and here I was stuck in a position that I would never allow to happen to a client.  I could have gone to small claims court over it, but in the end, it just wasn’t worth it.   In truth, I knew that slipcovers don’t last forever and I would eventually have to get a new set anyway – I just sped up the process, unfortunately.  Problem solved.

 

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New slipcover detailing on the chair:  the buttons were replaced with charming ties on both sides. Notice how nice and long the slipcover is now.  Before - the slip barely covered the upholstery.

 

There’s been another change in my family room, and a rather contentious one at that:  the coffee table.    Ben and I had bought our coffee table when we moved into our house about 15 years ago.  It was once an Irish dining table that had been cut down to coffee table height and it was a dream come true for us.  We bought it from Colin Gibbins in Montrose who specialized in these tables.  Once the table was cut down, he would add a shelf on the bottom for magazines.   He then stained our honey colored table a rich, dark brown.      They weren’t overly expensive tables,  but at the time, the only way we could afford it was with the yearly check we got from my generous and sweet parents for our anniversary.  Each year, Ben and I would eagerly wait for that check because as newlyweds, it was the only extra cash we had to spend on furnishings!   After many years of happiness with the table, maybe 14 years, I had begun to think I wanted to upscale a bit.  The table is very rustic, very wormy, and I wanted something taller and more refined to go with my new, higher sofa and chairs.   So, one thrilling day I brought home this table from The Fabulous Flea:

 

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The Fabulous Flea French Writing Desk, aka coffee table. 

 

I thought it was the prettiest table I had ever seen!  The top has a black leather inset and there’s a little drawer.  Doesn’t it look beautiful in front of that sofa at The Fab Flea?    It looked great in front of my sofa too.  Except there was one problem.   Ben.  He took one look at it and claimed he couldn’t see the TV over it.  Without even trying it out!!   Now all my clients know my lecture about husbands and decorating.    During discussions about furniture and design, I preach:  you are to look your husband in the eye and say, “and where was it that you got your degree in Interior Design?”   Ben usually falls for this tactic, but this day, over this table, he wasn’t falling for it.   In fact, he told me that either the table goes, or he goes.   So, I thought about that for a while.   It was a tough choice.   When I couldn’t decide, we compromised, and he said he would stay if the table went to another room.  This way, he said, he would save me the humiliation of having to tell The Fab Flea “my husband wouldn’t let me have it.”   The table went here:

 

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The desk moved in front of my day bed in my living room.

 

The desk worked out perfectly in my living room,  but it still left me with the worm eaten, cut down Irish dining room table in my family room.   Until last Saturday, that is, when Stefan Hurry and I dropped in on Cindy at Neal & Co. and I saw the prettiest French dough table.   Cindy was sweet enough to measure it for me and I went home to see if it was too tall for Mr. TV Man to see over.    Truthfully, it was a little taller than I told him.  He was skeptical enough at the fake measurement to begin with – if he knew how tall it really was, the dough table was never going to make it home with me.   RULE:  sometimes white lies are necessary to get around non-design savvy husbands.    But,  I knew he would be able to see the TV over it, because it was a few inches shorter than the Fab Flea table which never was too tall anyway.   Hyperventilating back to Neal & Co., because I tend to hyperventilate whenever I buy a French antique  (I don’t hyperventilate for much, certainly not clothes nor cars) I brought the dough table home.   The timing was incredible too – replacing one anniversary coffee table for another anniversary coffee table, 15 years apart.    Here it is:

 

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I’m in love.

 

It’s actually called a Petrin.  The top slides off and there is a compartment inside the table where you would place the dough to rise after kneading it, or before?   It’s a rich, dark wood – chestnut, actually – and it weighs a ton!    It’s dressier, but not fancy, just a step up to match the scale and mood of the larger sofa and chairs.     Also – notice the new slips, how much better they fit.  Plenty of room to shrink a little too!!   It’s hard to see in this picture, but even the back cushions are taller and the bottom cushion lies flat now that the slip fits properly.   I even made a new little skirt for my Target ottoman.

 

 

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And from the front.  I’m still in love.

 

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From the side, you can see where the apron drops down to cover the hidden dough receptacle. 

 

So, did Mr. TV Man approve?   Well, sort of.   I had to endure a little talk from him about not putting anything tall on the table in front of where he sleeps while pretending to watch TV.    OK.  I can do that.  See how empty the table top is on the left side?   And there was a little whining that he couldn’t put his feet up on the coffee table anymore.   So, I moved a small footstool for him to use for that.   He said it still wasn’t as comfortable as before.   But a few days later, I caught him on the phone happily describing it to his mother.    So, that means he’s OK with it. 

 

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I mean, really.    Does he look uncomfortable to you?  And check out his “sock shoes.”   Mr. Sexy.   OMG.  Do you feel sorry for me?    Who actually wears “sock shoes” in the 21st century?????    Next he’ll be ordering a Snuggly on TV, just you watch.

 

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Yep.    Just wait, he’ll order one for sure.

 

And on a more serious and personal note - To the sweetest man in the world, the most generous, kindest, and most loving person I have ever known, my best friend and my “cell mate:”    Happy Anniversary!!!     Twenty-one years of happiness.   Thanks for putting up with me, I don’t deserve you – we both know that!    I love you!!! 

126 comments :

  1. Happy Anniversary , Joni !
    I think your "cell mate" is the PERFECT accessory ... . . JJjjj

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  2. Yeah!! Happy Anniversary! I am laughing out loud at the snuggly pic! Everytime that commercial comes on, my husband threatens that he is going to buy himself one!! HA HA!! LOVE the sock shoes!! too cute..

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  3. You know, I liked the other one, but, then I do Really think this is a pretty addition to a beautiful setting. Congratulations. The truth be told, I like whatever you do! cheers! -s

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  4. Happy Anniversary to you and Ben!

    He looks so cute with Aretha Franklin's inaugeral bonnet on!!!!

    My favorite posts of yours are the more personal ones like this one. The table looks great. Slipcovers scare me although I long to have them made for our family room.
    How do you keep the dog hair off?!?
    Dana in VA

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  5. Happy Anniversary to you both! I love the new table. And the empty pudding cup adds a certain je ne sais quois!

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  6. Happy Anniversary Joni, you are the best and I am so glad you have a great hubby to boot!

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  7. ha ha ha, ho ho ho, that is just deliciously funny......and I LOVE the new slipcovers!

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  8. Happy Anniversary, Joni! Ben looks fabulous in Aretha's hat! :) I love the new table and am glad that you are happy with your slips now.

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  9. Oh Happy Anniversary, and congrats on the new table. It is just perfect and so are the slipcovers. Such a lovely room. Hugs,Marty

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  10. OMG! I LOVE this post! I love the new slips, the new table, You, and the sweet TV watching Husband!!
    Happy Anniversary to you both! j

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  11. Joni,
    Another delightful entry! Your new slips and the table look sooooooo good. Thanks for sharing this re-do adventure with us, and happy anniversary to you and your cute tv-man!
    best, Caroline

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  12. oK...first off I am still laughing over the snugggly...and WTH is on his head...a bow??!!

    Secondly...love seeing your home. again! Slips. look gorgeous. Whad'ja do with the old ones??? Wanna send em to Florida???

    I'm serious.

    Table is divine

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  13. Happy Anniversary!! Love the furniture - love the hat! I have clients who are threatening to get the snugglies to match the new sofa! You make it all look so lovely.....!

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  14. Love the hat on him. So hip. So 2009. Mazal Tov.

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  15. Happy Anniversary! Love the table and new slipcovers....I love it when you feature your house!!!
    mazel tov!

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  16. Hahahahahahaha! We call those snugglies the jedi master robes! That photo is the funniest thing I've seen today. Thanks for the laugh.

    Your new tables are gorgeous, your slips are absolutely smashing!! They look so much nicer than the first ones! I love the ties. It was a blessing in disguise, really!

    Happy Anniversary, Joni!
    xo Isa
    I still say I'd buy your irish table and give it a good home! la la la. ;)

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  17. I believe you are one lucky lady - For having a sweet Ben as a hubby (I have one, too!), and for finding such a lovely piece - both of which make you happy.

    Happy Anniversary!

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  18. Happy Anniversary, Joni!
    Your table is beautiful. I love the details on your slips. The ties down the sides are perfection, and now the slips are just the right length. I am the same way. When something is wrong it bothers me until I get it corrected.
    The picture of Ben in the Snuggly cracked me up. Steve and the kids keep threatening to buy me one because I am always cold. If they came in white I might have caved in. They do look nice and warm!!!

    xo
    Brooke

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  19. Happy Anniversary, Joni!
    Your table is beautiful. I love the details on your slips. The ties down the sides are perfection, and now the slips are just the right length. I am the same way. When something is wrong it bothers me until I get it corrected.
    The picture of Ben in the Snuggly cracked me up. Steve and the kids keep threatening to buy me one because I am always cold. If they came in white I might have caved in. They do look nice and warm!!!

    xo
    Brooke

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  21. What a WONDERFUL post! Love the new slips. Love the new french dough table (so unique!! and those graceful legs? Forgetaboutit.). Love pretty much every single thing in your living room.

    Happy anniversary! Sounds like you snagged a great one!

    PS I would love to hear if you know of any good discount sources for seagrass rugs. I'm in the market, but don't have a huge budget.

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  22. ohh Sweet Joni....Happy Anniversary...I must say Mr. Sexy has great legs! And the bow...to die for...what a trooper. He sounds so much like my husband. I always wondered how you kept the slips so clean...my DH loves to "recline" while watching TV and it has kept me from lighter fabrics.

    When we first moved into our home last summer I was getting my DH to hang some window treatments which he was trying to tell me HOW they should be hung. I said to him, "Ya know? I am the decorator and YOU are the handyman, and the handyman always does what the decorator tells him to do!" That was all it took....however, the next time, I got up on the ladder and penciled in where he needed to drill!

    I love your new table...it IS just the right height!

    Blessings to you Girl...

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  23. Happy Anniversary dear Joni! I enjoyed this tale of slipcovers and tables so much!!!

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  24. Oh Joni, you are my alter ego in the design world. I too had custom slipcovers that I unfortunately had to get rid of. (I thought they were pre-shrunk but, alas, they were not.) Also,your long suffering husband reminds me of mine. He is a sweetheart, but he does eventually draw the line! The best post lately.

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  25. What a delightful post! I loved seeing more of your home and learning more about Ben. You make a great team.

    Your new table is exquisite. I can see why you were so tickled to find it.

    Happy Anniversary, Joni and Ben! And many more...

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  26. You have given me so much wise counsel on dealing with husbands and decor (and the challenges that arise), and it is so nice to read about the strong and enduring marriage that you share with Ben! You certainly married a wonderful man - but, I sure hope his friends do not find this picture!

    Your new furniture looks wonderful, classic, and timeless. I admire that you are able to resist the light and painted furniture that is posted daily on the blogs, and the 'petrin' looks amazing in your family room. It is a great time to buy furniture and I am sure Neal & Co is thanking you for this post!

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  27. Happy anniversary! i'm so glad that the table worked out -it looks insanely wonderful -it was MADE for your sofa! I love the new slips too, the ties are such a great detail.
    haha about the snuggly -and where did that last picture come from with the inauguration hat?! LOL I bet there is room in the dough compartment for a snuggy!!!

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  28. Happy Anniversary! I love your new linen covers, they are beautiful!! I've been dying to replace my couch with one from Mitchell Gold Bob Williams because the BF hates slipcovers and they have one that looks more tailored. Hopefully one of these days I can get it.

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  29. Pretty new slips, fabulous table, and a 21st wedding anniverary-CONGRATULATIONS!

    I love taller coffee tables.. the detailing on this one's apron is so pretty. Especially when accessoried with a Snuggly... haha that picture is hysterical!

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  30. You are too funny. I threaten my Frank with a snuggy all the time because it would give me such a laugh.

    Love the new table-GORGEOUS!!!

    I, too had slips made that I paid extra to have "pre-shrunk". Well, they no longer fit after my first careful washing as instructed. You just feel so cheated. And slips certainly aren't cheap. Unfortunately, around here (PA) there are not any good seamstresses I know of. You are so lucky to have the resources available. And the slips look divine.

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  31. Crimony, Joni!
    It's HOUSTON. Zone 9.....why does he have sock shoes. I would run those down the disposal. Love the hat.

    That slipcover person lost more than just your personal business.... It would have been cheaper to redo them.

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  32. you are hilarious... and i am so sad that the woman who did your slipcovers in the beginning did not offer to remake them... i have the best seamstresses that i work with and the attn to detail is beyond amazing. the new ones look so much more elegant and refined... and you are happy... that is what really matters. your home is lovely and so are you.. wishing you and your husband many more happy years together!!! sincerely, pam/red ticking

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  33. OoooO! Love the new table, but what I love even more is that you promised that old table to me when you were done with it! LOL! I don't mind paying freight! :) Or heck, I'll come down to Houston and pick it up - take you to lunch! LOL! Beautiful pictures of your lovely home Joni, also love that table you bought for the living room!

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  34. Happy Anniversary to you and Ben! He's a lucky man to be married to you!

    xoxo

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  35. Happy Anniversary to Joni and the Divinely Gowned Mr. TV Man! Will gladly trade you my remote for that hat! LOL!

    Joni, I hope you two have a wonderful anniversary. This made me laugh till I cried, says she who is accused of not having one comfortable chair in the house!

    XO,

    Sheila :-)

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  36. A match made in heaven! I am still laughing. This is one of your best posts. Happy Anniversary!

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  37. I am just crying with laughter! Joni, that man LOVES YOU!!! There's absolutely no doubt!

    Here are my favorites: "It was a tough choice."
    "I tend to hyperventilate whenever I buy a French antique"
    -the sock shoes (an Acorn classic, I assume)
    -the Snuggly!!!!!!

    Oh, my I'm still giggling! You are just too much!!!!
    -GSG
    http://grannysmithgreen.blogspot.com

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  38. Joni,what a great post and Happy Anniversary.I think it is good for people to hear the progression and mistakes and successes of design even in a professionals life. I love the way you always keep it real. Thankyou for all you add to my day here in blogland,Kathysue

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  39. OMG!!! Happy Anniversary to the two of you!!! Love the new tables, both of them! And the slips are wonderful!

    I swear! You and I are married to the SAME MAN! My hubby has those same ugly slipper socks...won't part with them...and eats cereal for dinner almost EVERY night of his life! And loves me (puts up with me!!!) as much as Ben does you! Girl! How DID we get so lucky?!

    Have a wonderful celebration! God bless!

    Vickie

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  40. That dough table is to die for and perfect perfect perfect in your space. The sock shoes, however...hmmm. Its what in the sock shoes that count!

    That snuggy picture cracked me up so bad, and I love love love Arethas hat on him. LORDY!!

    Happy Anniversary!
    Lisas

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  41. The slips look gorgeous! And the hubby's cute too! Happy Anniversary!!

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  42. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!! 21 year -- how fabulous.

    And this post was hilarious Joni. Seriously that last picture takes the cake. I adore your new table - what a great man you have! And I fully understand about the table rules. JJ gets annoyed that we have too many books and not enough leg room!

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  43. Joni, I'm laughing out loud!!! What a hoot. Great post!!! Looks like it's time for another "stalker visit." V, are you with me? LOL!!!

    Happy Anniversary to you and your sweet hubby!!!
    Hugs!

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  44. Love the new coffee table and that last photo had me in stitches.

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  45. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO THE BOTH OF YOU! Love your new table.

    Re the splipcover story....bummer. Some times the 'best lessons' are learned the hard way.
    (Cardinal rule: if it's washable and dryer compatible; do it before constructing.)

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  46. CC - YES! Stalk the dough table! Oh, Joni - I'm dying. Like others, your personal posts are so wonderful. Heart warming, gut wrenching laughter. LOVE the new additions, slips & table. And what a perfect couple...

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  47. Joni Happy Anniversary! I love your irish table and now this one!!

    Enjoy your special day with the love of your life! xoxo

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  48. OMG Joni, I don't think I've laughed so hard in a couple of days - thank you! ;-) I love the Aretha Franklin hat, nice touch.
    Oh, and I think it's technically a "Snuggie". LOL.

    So, I'm a little dismayed that designing around a husband doesn't get any easier. Darn. I won't go into the many opinions that my stubborn one has (like no subway tile in the kitchen!), but the whole "the table's too tall" and "where will I put my feet" sounds like something he would say too. Ah well. To tell you the truth, I love that second table better anyways! It looks great, as do your new slips. Your whole room is gorgeous!

    Happy anniversary!

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  49. Joni,

    You are utterly hilarious. i just adore your wit and style. The new table is GORGEOUS. I am insanely jealous. I have the world's most hideous coffee table in my living room and desparately want a new one but cannot find anything. And here you have this exquisite beauty. I am mad with envy!

    But most importantly of all, HAPPY Anniversary to you and your patient and loving and good husband! We really should be thankful we have such patient and generous men who let us do (pretty much) whatever we want. Happy 21st Joni and Ben!

    xo Terri

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  50. First of all, happy anniversary! That's a wonderful milestone to celebrate. And what an extraordinary gift! The table is just exquisite! I had to laugh out loud reading this post as I remember your email to me regarding my situation with my husband. Our husbands are almost two peas in a pod. Guess who else wears those shoe socks? And lastly, thanks for all the tips on slipcovers. That's one of our next purchases and I appreciate all the advice I can get on them. I am wondering, however, where I can find a good slipcover maker in the DFW area. I doubt Shabby Slips would make a house call here. Thanks again for all of your wonderful photography. You are always informative, entertaining and downright funny!

    ~~ Victoria

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  51. OK that aretha reference is too much for me so early in the morning!!! hilarious. literally, i can't stop laughing. and for what it's worth my step-father wears sock/shoes and I think he is a super chic and refined man... aside from the sock/shoes! ;-)
    your home looks gorg.

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  52. Happy Anniversary! I love the new table & the slips!
    Leslie
    lamaisonfou blog

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  53. To date, this is my favorite post of yours! I love the tables all of them and I love your honey ...it made me laugh! Thanks and so glad that you approved of my post ...

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  54. I had to come back and tell you how I handle the men with my clients...I always tell the wifes, "If you ask him and he says "NO", you anit gonna get it...BUT, if you go ahead and get it, and he throws a fit...YOU STILL GOT IT !" lol

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  55. Wow, Joni, those are some legs on your hubs. :-)

    Oh, My God!! I was DYING over this post! You are just so, so funny.

    I love all the "rules" and I completely agree that husbands have no place in decor.

    I am in love with your new table. I love the height of it. It's just gorgeous!! Although I want to use it to make bread (is that wrong?).

    Happy Anniversary to you and Ben.

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  56. Happy anniversary! I love the new table! What did you do with the old (Irish) table? The photo of your husband in the snuggly is priceless. This post is timely for me because my husband commented last night about getting a new sofa and my reaction was mixed with both elation and fear (of what he might choose!). Aaah...life's little negotiations! Have a great day!

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  57. The room looks absolutely lovely. I especially love the empty pudding cup on the table - reminds me of my house...

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  58. Ooh Snuggie...
    Happy Anniversary, he sounds like a great guy.
    P.S. Thank goodness for Shabby Slips!

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  59. You are too funny !!! Happy Anniversary ... has Ben seen this yet?

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  60. That all sounds so familiar...love that last shot! I also have 2 teenage boys to add to that messy mix...

    Anyway, this realates a bit to this post....I have left you a little rendering at Schematic Life :)

    Best to you and your slips!

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  61. what a great SPORT he is too.

    i love a tall cocktail,
    and a tall cocktail table as well !

    it makes so much sense,
    it beats the hell out of a TV tray !!! ( EEEEW )

    xxx's

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  62. Too, too funny!!!
    And I love his Aretha hat! What a score!
    cheers, -s

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  63. Joni, I love the slipcovers and the table. I find conventional coffee are too low and inevitably (constantly) someone (me) bangs their shin(s) into them. I think that your new table is the perfect height and a great remedy for bruised legs! Cori Paige

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  64. Dear "Miss Talent Personified", JONI (AKA "ANNIVERSARY GIRL")~~~ DELICIOUSLY (The "pudding cup"!) FUNNY ("Aretha Franklin's Inaugural Bonnet" & that "SNUGGLY" thingie on your DH!)!!!!!!~~~ I am STILL smiling at this most c-h-a-r-m-i-n-g of postings this morning!!! If you have laughter in your home, and can laugh at yourself too (your hubby is a sweeeeetheart!), you TRULY have love & togetherness & great joy!!! HAPPY 21st!!! Love, Linda (KA RMS "Mom of a German Shorthair")

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  65. Loved your post. Your new slipcovers look fantastic. Where did you get your gorgeous throw pillows?


    Happy Anniversary--21 years is an accomplishment. Congratulations.

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  66. Happy Anniversary! (Love the 'snuggly'! ~ He's a good sport!)
    The new table looks great too. What did you do with the other one?... Wish I lived closer...I could come over and 'borrow' it.

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  67. Happy Anniversary! I hope you two have a snuggy 21st! How wonderful!!

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  68. Happiest of anniversaries Joni and Ben! Alas, Mr. Handy-dandy-Battery Man at my house has threatened to buy all his girls Snugglies! But wait - get an extra one free for the dog!! LOL.

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  69. Happy Anniversary! You are so funny! I love all your tables, by the way.

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  70. OMG, I choked on my coffee when I got to the end. Too funny. I thought this was going to be such a serious post from you with the "slips from hell". Then the wonderful table that ended up being too high for the hubby. At that point I was thinking Joni is having a really bad day, and even a perfect person, as you are, can mess up every once in awhile. But then you find another sweet table that Ben approves of, you have the slips made agian, the right way and the first table that I LOVE, has a place to stay. Happy Anniversary.

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  71. Hi Joni!
    Happy Anniversary to you both!
    Loved your post. It made me even more excited about my most recent purchase. An OLD antique schoolhouse table, that I will be using as a coffee table here at the Lettered Cottage. It was quite a splurge though, and won't have it paid off until April. :-(
    I'll send you photos of it...it's so delightful!

    Layla

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  72. Congratulations on your anniversary! Ben certainly looks happy. The dough table is wonderful - I love to make bread and this would be perfect. The new slips are exactly right, as are the other parts of your rooms.

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  73. Happy Anniversary, Joni and Ben!!
    Truth be told I am with Ben on the 1st table I think it is too high for the family room but looks absolutely perfect in your living room and if you kept that you never would have needed this beauty. It too is absolutely perfect for the family room. So everything works out in the end.
    As for the slip covers OMG I can't believe a company with such experience would do something like that!! I would be so made and felt so taken advantage of, why didn't they fix this on their own dime immediately??
    Also love the pudding cup on the brand new french antique table. You are a nicer wife than I would ever be. xo, MB

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  74. I will just add my 2 cents to the scores here, Joni, but could not let this pass without saying a somewhat belated "Happy Anniversary" to you both. Your post was hilarious and I love your new table. Nice work with photoshop as well. You are so witty. XO

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  75. Joni, I love your story. Isn't it crazy how the little things can drive us crazy? I think we all have those stories. And, Ben does Aretha proud!!! (p.s. Is he still talking to you? hehe).

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  76. so, so funny!
    What is that gorgeous throw(?) on your Target ottoman? I love it!

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  77. Happy Anniversary dear Joni and may you have many more with that gorgeous guy draped in red! (That is too funny how you have put him in that outfit ) xv

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  78. Happy Anniversary. I have just had mine too. Very special, celebrating your journey together. Love your purchases... and your slip cover incident very unfortunate! So pleased with the happy ending.. a great read and a fabulous story! A-M xx

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  79. this is too hilarious! I love the little lesson you give your clients, I may have to try that out on my own -- too bad I don't have a design degree, either!

    happy anniversary!

    oh -- I just noticed that he's wearing Aretha's hat! HYSTERICAL.

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  80. Oh my gosh. Hilarious. You crack me up. Happy Anniversary!!!!

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  81. Happy anniversary - glad you came up with a compromise. Your husband is adorable, and now I don't feel so horrible that mine wears shearling slippers that come up to his "slender" ankles (skinny, I calls 'em). 21 more years! Mazel Tov!

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  82. I am really lucky because my husband doesn't care what I do to our house- I seriously could paint a room black and he would be fine with it. On the down side, when I ask for advice on how something looks in our house, he says, "I don't care."

    You think sock shoes are bad?! My husband is a carpenter, so he wears old clothes to work (and anywhere else he goes after work, like stores). For his bachelor party a couple years ago, his "friend" bought him a shirt that says, "GHB- helping change women's minds since 1960." He won't throw it out because he says he doesn't want to "waste a work shirt."

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  83. First of all, Happy Anniversary! Secondly, what a hilarious and wonderful post, with tables and shoe socks and hypervenilating when buying french furniture. Loved it all. Thank you, Joni, for all that you share and teach your readers. I am personally very much in your debt--my masonware collection is taking off (thanks to you) and I'm eyeing other french antiques online. (No Fabulous Flea where I live). Blessings to you and your husband on the next 21 years! May they be even happier! Connie C.

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  84. Dear Joni,
    LOVED this post! Love the linen and the petrin, of course, I buy them all the time in France but have never had one as detailed as yours, good find. Lastly, the snuggly made me crack up because my 5 year old saw a commercial for one during the holidays and brings it up all the time...how Santa forgot to bring her one. Also, thanks for coming by my blog, it is very encouraging for us neophytes to get support from the "establishment." Though you sure have set the bar high.

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  85. Joni, I am not sure whether I have commented or not before... but for so many reasons I had to comment on this post. I LOVE your living room, can I move in? The new slips are so perfect, the zebra pillows are my fave, the petrin is gorgeous! And the photo of your hubby in the Snuggy is hysterical!

    Happy Anniversary... and many more!

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  86. The tables are absolutely GORGEOUS! Love the new slipcovers, too.
    Happy Anniversary!
    Kerry

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  87. Do you have anyone to recommend in the Dallas area? I have seen Shabby Slips in both Houston and Austin, but not in the Dallas area. I am desperatly lookin; any help you could give would be such a help.

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  88. Your slipcover story...I felt like yoiu were telling one of my stories!! Seriously, the lessons we learn and the money we waste!! Your husband sounds just like mine! I'm cracking up at this whole story!! And I LOVE LOVE LOVE your new coffee table and slipcovers. Everything looks beautiful!!!
    Sally W.

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  89. I had the same slipcover nightmare--I love your fabulous flea table. I wanted a taller coffee table too--I think they look so chic--but my girls shot me down. Loved the post, and happy anniversary!!

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  90. Joni, I am laughing SO hard, I can hardly type you a note. The snuggly has become a big joke at our house, and we threatened to get one for each other for Christmas! Love your doctored photo of your husband. Love both of your new tables, and your slipcovers look great! This was a short post for you, and yet, I've spent all much as long here as I normally spend. I have been studying each picture of your wonderful home-seeing all of the treasures on tables, the vignettes you have arranged, and the overall look of the room. This was such a treat for me. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! laurie

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  91. Happy Anniversary...our 28th is on Sat. A Snuggly with Aretha's hat...so fine.

    Local radio station is trying to put together a snuggly pub crawl here...oh Lord.

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  92. What a snuggly romantic post! I love how the post traveled from slipcovers to a snuggly! What a great post!

    P.S. I work with someone who actually bought a snuggly!!!

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  93. Just before I read your line about mister snuggly, I was thinking Mr. S... Such a funny post. The new table is the best one, and I would completely have made the slipcover mistake. Thank you for saving me in the future. Happy anniversary.

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  94. That was a very fun story. Love the ties on your new slipcovers and most of all your zebra toss cushions. I'm glad the coffee table dilemma worked out in the end!

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  95. Joanie -- Although I appreciate the tons of research that go into your posts on resorts, hotels, historical design, etc., the ones that touch me are the personal posts...about your home, your life, your design advice...even the mistakes that endear you to your readers! Best wishes for many more happy years together for you and your faux-designer/puddin'-eating lifelong love!

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  96. And...I love the pretty slips and the new table! How intriguing to have a coffee table with a history!

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  97. Completely charming. Both the living room and the fellow in the Aretha hat.

    You know, one of our favourite inns to escape to is a wonderful old Southern mansion located in Beaufort, South Carolina. The drawing room there has the most delicious yellow-green walls and in summer all the upholstery's chocolate silk velvet is slipcovered in white linen. And there are glorious white orchids on the tables. It could be your living room.

    And I imagine your house smells like the Charlotte Moss "Virginia" candle.

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  98. I am happy for you. However, you owe him one. You would never let yourself be photographed laying about like that : ) Right?
    That pic of your sweet man made me burst out laughing!

    Dee

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  99. ahhhh!!! can you photoshop aretha's hat onto my head too??? omg. i'm dying. the snuggie it just too much. but maybe better than the socks?

    i LOVE the new table. the tone of the wood is so perfect, especially with your zebra pillows. i'm sure a million other commenters have said the same, but since i'm not going to read 100 comments (how do you DO that?) i'm going to say it too. and happy anniversary!! xoxo

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  100. swet post- happy 21st anniversary! i hope you amke it to 22 after the snugglie/aretha hat photoshop montage! :)

    ps- your living room is lovely!

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  101. good morning and happy anniversary ... I come from a small historical gradicana Hvar which is located the island surrounded by clean water in ... like you would here .. peace, kindness and culture cuisine ... http://www.suncanihvar.com

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  102. ... I do not understand why someone does not want to have something we do not write ... so I like your site and I wish you much happiness and health ... and my house is as beautiful as your ...

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  103. I see I'm so late in reading this post- crazy week!!! BUT happy anniversary!! :)

    LOVE the new coffee table & how frsh the room looks!!!

    I'm so glad you shared your slipcover disaster with us- I can't even thank you enough actually. Now, I just have a couple of questions for you- you know about my obsession with white, however, I went with a natural colored slipcover on my sofa (because I found it for 65% off & because I have a toddler/ dog & crazy life) BUT I always hear everyone saying how you can throw white slipcovers in the wash & bleach them... can you tell me how well you think it would clean up with my situation? (you're going to think I'm crazy but I love having my dog on the sofa with me & as a result she sometimes jumps up there on her own with dirty paws which means immediately ripping off the slipcovers & throwing them in the wash.)

    Also, before this sofa I made a sofa mistake & went with pure white twill microfiber (It was gorgeous & washed up like microfiber but looked just like twill) BUT Even just normal wear would make it look a little dingy beause it was so pure white... After only a week or 2 I'd get out the soapy water & do little touch-ups.)

    So- do you think the white slipcovers would be ok with my dog & situation? How often do you wash yours?

    Also, can you check out my most recent post because I have a dining chair dilemma. Thanks & so sorry for the superlong comment!!
    xoxo

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  104. Scarlett O'Hara and Mr. Snuggly...you make a perfectly darling couple. You have a beautiful and comfortable home.

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  105. Well done, Joni!

    (Husbands. What do they know about decorating??)
    ;)

    The dough table is *gorgeous*-- and complements your furniture (and also gorgeous new slips perfectly!)

    Hope you can all come pover to 'the mogg blogg' (www.moggit.blogspot.com)-- we're gearing up for a Domino book giveaway!

    J&J

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  106. Happy Anniversary! That dough table is perfect! Much better even than your first find!

    Where were you a few years ago when I made slipcovers for a glider that was on our screened porch? :) Dummy me, I spent hours sewing white denim without washing it first AND it wasn't outdoor fabric!!!! Mildew and shrinkage...I learned a big lesson!!

    Those sock-shoes are a hoot...a snuggly would be the best accessory to them, I think!! :)

    Have a blessed weekend! Robin

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  107. Brightest Blessings on your Anniversary! Lovely posting -- warm, charming and so much fun! Well done on the slipcover issue -- you handled that thorny problem very well indeed! Yes -- the dough table is a true treasure -- just like your darling DH! As for those "little white lies" -- trust me -- after 28 years of wedded bliss -- those small tales act like the nacre that an oyster uses to cover a tiny piece of grit -- and lo-and-behold! -- it becomes a fine pearl!! As generations of good Scots women in my family have said: "Keep such things on a Need-To-Know basis!" LOL! Is it any wonder that women are far, far better at diplomacy? And there are TWO coffee tables in our one-and-only living area here -- an old painted trunk (kept clear of all decor) and a pretty wood one. Diplomacy at work! LOL!

    Jan at Rosemary Cottage

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  108. I just stumbled across your beautiful blog. It is very inspiring.

    Your new slipcovers look divine.

    Happy Anniversary!

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  109. Oh, Joni, I loved this post! I was cracking up over the husband thing, since I have one just like that. LOVE the new slipcovers. They are just gorgeous, as is that entire room, that I've been in love with since I first saw it! The new table is perfect.

    I've got a slipcover project I've been putting off, got to get busy on it. I'm trying it myself! ha, and I'm not a good seamstress, but it's only going in the guestroom. And I did already wash it, so I see I did the right thing!

    Yep, my hubby is SO much like that. Won't let me put things in a certain place. I'm getting ready to do a little facelift in my kitchen (new countertops, sink & faucet) and wanted to get some glassfront doors (4). Well, once I mentioned that...he nixed that idea. "I don't like dishes to be seen". So, it's not worth fighting over, I'll concede. :) Even though my dishes are pretty! And I showed him all sorts of beautiful glassfront doors in kitchens. OH well!

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  110. Happy anniversary you two love birds,
    and cograts on the new arrivals!
    Seriously, the new slips and the new table are gorgeous!
    xo xo

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  111. That's all marriage is one big compromise. Well maybe more than that. Congrats on the 21 years, I can hear the love in your words.

    Shelly

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  112. Yes, I am all to familiar with these types of conversations. :)
    Love your new table, and am still loving my old husband. :)

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  113. Happy Anniversary! You have such a flair for decorating- great blog! I sadly, moved from Houston six months ago, and your shopping post made me a bit home sick.

    I am definitely in the market for a rustic coffee table like your "before" picture. I called the number in Montrose, but it looks like they are not in business any longer. Any interest in selling yours?
    A new faithful reader,
    Kristen

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  114. ..Snugglys get no respect.

    Slipcovers and I have always been in a love hate relationship....I had a love seat slipped when I was first married, 30 some years ago. If I remember correctly the cost was slightly more than a months salary. Aside from looking great, they were a nightmare. My daughter was a baby and I spent her early childhood, tucking and pulling and fixing the sofa, about an hour out of every day. Not one minute exaggerated! I finally hit perfection with two wing chairs a few years ago. I was engrossed in your post with great interest and empathy. And then- I was SO caught off guard by Ben's photograph, and your close with the snuggly, I am still laughing hysterically. What an adorable husband! I am wondering if he knew he was posing for Cote De Texas?

    A very Happy Anniversary to you both!!

    ~Treacy

    OH! and p.s. I absolutely LOVE the dough table, and the barley twist comfort stool too! :)

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  115. I am so excited to have found your blog! I have only read a few posts, and already I've learned so much. I adore the new table, and your new slips! Congrats on your anniversary--wishing you many more happy years together!

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  116. Happy Anniversary, Joni! Oh, I love your new table and your slips look so nice! I love the little detail with the ties. Now for hubby, sometimes you just need to punch them in the stomach. I do that every now and then to Mr. Precious! :)
    Again, I love seeing your beautiful home!
    be a sweetie,
    Shelia ;)

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  117. Joni - Congratulations, and I just love your new slipcovers and table. Just wonderful! Your husband must be a great guy (and so lucky too!) Would you believe they have sold 4 million of those snuggie things!?!

    -Lana

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  118. My favorite thing is that your home is phenomenal yet manages to be lived in. Proof: husband just ate chocolate pudding and lovingly cast the plastic container aside. Chocolate pudding on white sofa!

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  119. What a great post!!! Happy Anniversary. ...and shhhhh - don't tell - but my husband would have bought a Snuggy blanket if I had not made such fun of him when he told me he liked them! Now I feel bad. Maybe it will have to make its way under the tree this December!

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  120. If you ever decide to give him up I want to take a number and stand in line. Ann

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  121. A very belated happy anniversary wish dear Joni (and to your handsome husband as well!). Now you know I was already in love with each centimeter of your home and then this! You go and change the look, tweak it if you will, and mnake me totally delirious! The table is perfection. Dang but I love it all...I wish I could throw out everything and start over and completely Joni-fy my house this instant but since that can't happen quite yet, I will just look and drool and dream and remain green with envy!

    Just how did your sexy TV Man score Aretha's bonnet? : )

    I have one of those same sexy TV men around here too...bet mine is sloppier than yours! Betcha! *grin*

    Love,
    Sue

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  122. Happy Anniversary! If you're looking for a sentimental and unique gift for your next anniversary, try using MyDayRegistry.com to dedicate your special day to your spouse :)

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