COTE DE TEXAS: Guess Who’s Famous?

Guess Who’s Famous?

 

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If you are anywhere near my age and you look up and see these three guys in front of you at the grocery store check-out line, you might get a little thrill!  If you are younger, you’d probably say, “who are those three fossils?”   For those who don’t know, that’s the Beaver, his brother Wally and the neighborhood bully Eddie.  Whoa – are we really THAT old??????    OK, maybe these three are a bad example of getting excited about seeing someone famous.

 

 

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You have to admit they were a lot cuter back then.

 

 

 

Understand that I’m married.  I’m not going to get excited over running into, let’s say, Brad Pitt, at the corner diner. 

‘Yeah, sure.   Who am I kidding?

 

 

 

 

Truth be told, this is a man I would actually be thrilled to see in the grocery line:  John Saladino, interior designer.   Now, a casual run-in with this man would get my elevate my blood pressure.  It takes all kinds.  I’d love nothing more than to bump into him and finagle a visit to his famous Villa di Lemma.

 

 

 

image But the question of today is  - would you get excited to see THIS man at the take-out line?  Like I said, it takes all kinds.

 

This past New Years Eve, since Ben and I don’t like to go out that night, he decided to pick up  a “fancy” dinner to celebrate the new decade.   His choice for “fancy?”   A quail dinner at the Goode Company Taqueria.   Don’t ask.    New Years Eve was an uneventful night for us.   Elisabeth was going to a party and then sleeping over there, so it was just the two of us.   Ben didn’t even stay up for the big midnight kiss.  But I digress.   After Ben left to go pick up his fancy quail dinner  (I ordered the chili cheeseburger) I promptly dozed off into one of those deep naps where when you wake up you don’t know what day it is, much less what your name is.    So, when the delivery boy comes home all excited – it took me a while to grasp what he was saying:  “Someone recognized me!   Me!!!   Someone at Goodes recognized me!!!”

OK, slow down big boy, “tell me the story again” I say as I’m wiping the drool off my face and computer keyboard.  I’ll admit he’s cute when he gets all excited about something.  He gets real talkative and animated – not his usual m.o.  

 

 

imageMr. Excitement – his usual expression.

 

“I”m telling you someone recognized me!  I was getting ready to pay and this woman comes up to me and says ‘Excuse me, but are you Mr. Slipper Socks Man?’

Surely this is a joke.   Mr. Slipper Socks Man?   Recognized?   You’ve got to be kidding me.   No.  Really?  Someone recognized you from the blog?  

“Yes!!!!  And we talked for a long time too – she was with her husband and sons, she was really nice.”  Oy.  Now I’m worried about what he actually said to this perfect stranger in the Goodes take-out line.  Certainly he couldn’t have talked about my blog, he doesn’t READ it!!!    Well, it’s alright - he is quickly approaching his sixth decade and he deserves a small thrill.  I know what it’s like to be recognized – and it is exciting!!  Houston can be a small town and I’ve been spotted a few times myself.   Recently I made a mad dash into a linen shop wearing my pajamas (they’re actually sweats,)  no make up, and I had my desperately-need-to-be-replaced glasses on.   I can only imagine how frightful my hair looked.  I was slightly aggravated when I couldn’t find what I needed and was a little curt with the very young and quite beautiful clerk.   After ten minutes of putting up with me being somewhat surly, she quietly says  “I like your blog.”   Whaaaaaaat???    Effusive apologies about  my poor manners gush out from me like a geyser as a much nicer and gentler shopper suddenly invades my body.   Yes, I tell Ben,  I do know how it feels to be recognized.    He was so excited about his New Years Eve rendezvous that it was infectious.   I was thrilled for him!  He’s a star!  Mr. Slipper Socks Man!!!   I’d created a character for him to revel in and he was practically walking on air over it all.  

I’m feeling just a little bit proud too at this point.  Awww.   How cute is it?!   My Mr. Slipper Socks Man.   And then it starts to nag at me, I wonder, how DID someone know who he was?    I haven’t put his picture on the blog but maybe three or four times at most.   Still, you would need to have a real eagle eye to pick someone out like that in a take-out line, on New Years Eve, at a Taqueria no less.   And then, it hits me.  Of course!   I look down.   And I see them.  

 

 

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Yep, you got it!  He actually WORE his slipper socks out on New Years Eve!  Classy.  I know.  And I don’t need a million comments to tell me how classless we truly are – I totally agree. 

“Are you serious?  How COULD you?  You wore slipper socks out  on New Years Eve?!  Have you no shame????    No wonder she knew who you were.  She didn’t recognize YOU, she recognized those goofy looking SHOES!”    Dufus.   I take back everything I said about it being cute.  I’ve created a character all right!    Next he’ll be wearing zip-up sweaters and welcoming everybody to his little neighborhood. 

 

 

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If you DO happen to see someone dressed like this in your grocery store, just ignore him, ok?  Don't encourage him.  He’s had enough stardom to last a lifetime and I’m throwing out those stupid slipper sock shoes  the minute he takes them off, if he ever does.

 

 

 

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Here’s to prove to everyone that he really was a cutie when we married (and truthfully, he still is!!!!)   That’s Ben before he was a slipper socks man, with our first dog Reggie, in the first house we owned – almost 19 years ago.   The decor was blatantly copied from a Dan Carithers room I had seen in Southern Accents.  To read about this room, go HERE.

 

And how was YOUR New Years Eve?

 

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On to another topic.   I was so excited to come home tonight to an unexpected package from Ballard Designs!  They really do a cute gift wrap in green with a brown ribbon and a fleur de lis card.    My secret admirer is none other than the famous commenter and RMS alum Linda from Arizona.  You may know her by her aliases:  Linda in AZ and Belle’s Mom.    I’m not sure what I did to deserve such a kind gesture – but the card says it reminded her of me.

 

 

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She sent a set of these adorable zebra files – and the cutest thing is they are khaki green inside.  I really needed these – so a huge Thank You Linda!  So Much!  Poor Linda has been down with a broken back, so if you see her commenting, send a get well wish her way!! 

 

 

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And, there’s nothing I love more than holiday cards, they truly are the highlight of the season for me.  This Christmas I got so many cards  from readers and other design bloggers, I was thrilled!!  I tried to thank everyone who sent a card – but it’s possible I missed a few.  If you are one whom I didn’t acknowledge, please accept my sincere apology and thank you!  I love all different kinds of cards, the ones with pictures of children and pets and the more serious ones with a religious sentiment inside.   I also love the typed year end recaps, where all the highs and lows are reduced to one piece of paper.    Ben and I never sent out holiday cards with Elisabeth all dressed in her season finery, which is something I now truly regret since she is too old to pose!     Hopefully she’ll do it with her own family one day and I’ll look forward to seeing my grandchildren all dressed up in smocked dresses and suspender shorts!   

 

 

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Finally, don’t forget to listen to this week’s Skirted Roundtable HERE with House Beautiful editor Stephen Drucker.   So far, all the reviews have been mostly very positive – so don’t miss out, especially if you are a fan of the magazine.  We have a special surprise coming next week – I’ll just say two words:   It’s Complicated!!!!

128 comments :

  1. Oh how cute he is and how cute that he got such a kick out of being recognized! You may have to change his blog name to Mr. Big Head! My husband has never looked at my blog either, and if I had been calling him Mr. Slipper Socks on my blog, he would not have known it. He would have thought that lady was crazy when she asked if he was Mr. S.S. and he probably would have excused himself and left! I didn't know Linda had broken her back! I'm so sorry. I'll have to get in touch with her. laurie

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  2. Joni, You are lucky (and ahem...he is lucky). What a wonderful life you have. xo (He's a hotty)

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  3. You are too funny and Ben is too cute, and a celebrity! I loved the story.

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  4. OMG that was the funniest story ever!!! Yay, Mr. Slipper Socks Man!!!The two of you are too too cute.

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  5. A great story! And Mr. Slipper Socks man is still a cutie ... and a good sport!

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  6. Joni
    Cuteness all the way around.
    Your 'slipper socks man' is about like my husband.
    One day last fall, he was at the Dr's office, looked down at his feet and realized he'd worn his bedroom/house slippers to the office. Whaaaat???
    So much for trying to keep my floors clean! OH WELL.
    Can't wait for the surprise next week.. with your hint It's Complicated. Score!

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  7. That is too adorable. Mr. Slipper Socks has a taste of fame and glory! What a sweet pair you two are.

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  8. I am lovin slipper sock man because it sounds so much like something my husband would do. But mine would do it just to embarrass me. It wouldn't embarrass him one bit. He's the guy who lays down on the bench outside of the store and acts like a homeless man just to make me and the kids want to crawl into a hole. Oh, but we love him so much anyway. Thanks for sharing your story and making me laugh.

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  9. Joni...thank you so much for sharing this! I laughed so much! What a cutie Mr. Slipper Socks Man is! I even told my hubby and he laughed, too!

    Happy New Year!

    Adrienne

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  10. Joni, this post made me lol...so happy for Mr. SSM may I have your autograph?? And okay if I ever see him with his snuggie on with his name ROARING across his CHEST I promise to run like hell....lol

    Great post....

    Kathy :)

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  11. Oh, what a fun post! You had me hanging in suspense and what a hilarious ending! Love it.

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  12. You are so lucky to have "Mr. Slipper Socks Man"... I think we all love him!! I read about it on twitter!!! was waiting for this post... How cute!! oh..and the snuggy!!!! keepin' him in with the trends...now he's "Mr. Slipper Socks Snuggy Man"!!!!

    happy weekend!

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  13. Mr slipper...socks. YOU are all that. Yes you ARE uumm hmm.

    And...gotta say....Even better looking now than then. Honestly. It takes a MAJOR level of confidence and je ne sais quoi to carry off slipper socks outside the house!

    Love it all!

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  14. A wonderful smile story Joni!
    Perhaps with the snuggly and his slipper socks he can just be Mr.SS much shorter to type...
    I am waiting with baited breath for next weeks Skirted Round Table! Can't wait till the movie hits our shores.
    concretejungleblogspot.com

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  15. Ha! I think if I was ever in a store and someone told me they read my blog, I would get as excited as Mr. Slipper Socks! I love this story! Those slipper sock shoe thingy's are kind of his trademark now, Joni. I don't know if you could really get rid of them at this point. : )

    We had a very quiet New Years Eve as well; did manage to stay up until midnight, though.

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  16. Now that you're famous, Joni, you won't be able to go shopping in your jammies any more! On the other hand, now that he's famous, Mr. Slipper Socks Man will probably go out and buy half a dozen pairs of slipper socks so he'll never run out!

    I absolutely loved the SRT interview with Stephen Drucker. What he's done with House Beautiful is just amazing.

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  17. Great story, great story teller!!
    Enjoy the rest of the weekend with Mr. Slipper Socks :)
    xo
    Terri

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  18. Mr. Slipper Socks - it's better than being Mr. Snuggie.

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  19. I enjoyed the story about Mr. Slipper Socks so much that I sat my husband down and read it to him...during the Cowboys game...and he LISTENED...and we laughed out loud! Our evening would have been uneventful if not for a little Joni entertainment! Thank Mr. Slipper Socks for being himself! We like him...

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  20. That's the BEST story about Mr. Slipper Socks! I thought of him the other night when I watched the UT game. My husband had fallen asleep, and I thought, "Mr. Slipper Socks will have to shave now."

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  21. Joni,sweet Joni. THIS is what I love about you. You are real and you're not ashamed of it. That mess of comments recently was ridiculous. Don't give them another thought. I'm from Tennessee and everybody's Christmas is just like that.
    Anyway, your guy is a lot like mine so I totally relate. Besides, he should get a few perks for being "Joni's Slipper Socks Man"!

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  22. That is so funny about Ben! I laughed out loud!! I cant believe u got a gift from a reader. That's so cool.

    Don't worry, I was asleep by new years too!

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  23. I love the fact your husband went out in his slipper socks to pick up dinner! You can"t take them away now, it's too late...he is "known" for them. Perhaps they are the next Uggs!!!

    Linda in AZ was one of my very first comments...what an incredibly thoughtful woman:)

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  25. How talented you are Mrs. Slipper Socks! (Humm, have you ever been called MRS. Slipper Socks?) I am always amused at how well you can have me giggling at one minute and then thinking about design all at the same time. You're a doll, Joni! Happy 2010!

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  26. I must admit I have been looking for you around Houston! My sister and I were at Urban Market and we both were on the CotedeTexas look out. One day I'll spot ya!

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  27. Joni,
    A hilarious post. You always make us laugh!!!

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  28. Too funny! I would definitely recognize Mr Slipper Socks out in public (especially if he were wearing those or his personalized snuggie!)

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  29. Sweet post! What cuties you both are.

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  30. Y'all are both adorable. I want to think of a cute name for my hubby now. I LOVE the Slipper Socks snuggie!

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  31. Two words back at 'cha...
    Re: Skirted Roundtable:

    Woo Hoo.

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  32. New Years Eve with TCG (hubby - The Car Guy) we stayed in and watched "The Ghost & Mr. Chicken":) I'm glad to know that we were not alone in not liking to going out on this night!
    First time to listen to The Skirted Round Table the other day with Stephen Drucker and thought it was wonderful! I'm a new fan!

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  33. Joni, I love this story about Mr Slipper socks, too cute. I know recently when I was not able to blog or go to my emails my hubby did it for me and I think he enjoyed living my life and jumping on my band wagon, It sounds as if Mr Slipper Socks does too, Tell him from all of us out in blogland that his wife is a genius and quite famous in her own right in blogland, Kathysue

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  34. Recent groupie! Loving getting to know you and the other SRT ladies. Don't always agree- especially the podcast on Met Home - every style has beauty! Obviously the country is going through a shift and I can't wait to hear the set designer for It's complicated. One of the perfect scenery movies! Hubbie is adorable and thank you for sharing such a casual perspective into your life.

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  35. Very cute post! And I love seeing Mr. Slipper Socks Man's young photo. I really think he is cuter now!

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  36. OK, that was hysterical! And loved the hottie on the beige striped sofa!!

    Sally

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  37. Hilarious! Ben's a cutie, regardless!

    I spy with my little brown eye: Connor-pie!

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  38. Joni, you are one wonderful story teller!! I so lol a few times with is one... out in his slippers too funny.
    Whenever anyone goes out in an outfit they should not or without makeup... they bump into someone they have not seen in years, or a client... it is just the way the universe works! Any time I think I am running out without even mascara and lipstick...I stop at the door and think...go back a do your face silly...you know you will be sorry if you don't...
    Looking forward to the next (talking blog) aka Skirted Roundtable...each one is better than the last, thank you so much for everything you do for both blogs...
    Bless you, Happy 2010
    Carol Ann x

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  39. THAT is the funniest story ever. I can totally relate. And that is all I am gonna say.

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  40. So funny! I am going to keep my eyes out for Mr. Slipper socks:) We go to Goode Company Tacqueira a few times a month. I love their MExican Omelet and their salsa. Someone recognized me in the Ruggles Cafe on Rice once. I was very surprised because I did not have any of the peanuts with me.

    Mr Slipper socks is adorable:)

    Eloise is coming to town next week (weasel's journey) and wants to meet for coffee. I'll e-mail you.

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  41. that is the cutest and most fun story i've heard in a long time. Got a long laugh out of me! The thrill of celebrity :-)
    Hope he doesn't get a big head and start his own blog to rivel yours! ha!

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  42. Thank you for sharing this. A darling and I really appreciated it! And know you are Both just as Charming as Heck now too!

    -ps- is that a french linen slip cover on your sofa? I've got 10 yds just waiting to get made. How is it holding up?

    Keep 'em coming Lady! you are the Best!,
    LbH

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  43. I have to say your post had me laughing out loud.. and that doesn't happen very often, at least not often enough. Thanks for that ..I just love your blog, keep up the great work!

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  44. you always have me chuckling away at the computer. too funny:) i honestly think i'd be able to spot mr. s.s. in a crowd as well. i've got really good celebrity radar:)

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  45. I got worried when I saw the Christmas cards if your follower Anon and Gina had seen mine I would have really been in trouble!!They would have worried about the terrorist again, Oh my! Its been kinda quiet without them around here, I wonder who they are terrorizing now!!! You are the best, Sista Luv ya

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  46. I laughed out loud while reading this!

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  47. Hilarious! I definitely shared this tale w/ my Ben - for the cuteness of the tale, as well as the mention of one of our fave go-to Houston eateries!

    Our New Year's was less-than-eventful, as we arrived home from our overnight flight from The States at 6 pm - Zzzzzz was all we were about!

    So glad to see Mr. Slipper Socks looks good in Longhorn orange - Hook 'm!!

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  48. oh you are too cute! And Mr Slipper Socks too. We dined in as well-though had a little dinner party with neighbors.

    So fun on the gift from Linda!!

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  49. hysterical! love your story and your husband is a great sport.
    I never recognize anyone famous, and we have our share of celebs in our Tribeca showroom, but my biggest blunder.......i was standing next to a very handsome man who was grabbing a coffee at our local bakery, I looked at him and asked if he had a store nearby as he looked familiar to me....he very nicely answered that no he did not own a store....that same night i go to the movie to see who...on the screen...but Brad Pitt...who indeed is not a shop keeper. needless to say i felt like a fool...

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  50. Your story is HILARIUS Joni!
    Only problem I foresee is that he is
    1)now known as Mr Slipper Socks Man...
    2)And he has to keep the 'slipper-socks' image-thing up!
    3)And he liked being recognized ..
    hmmm... put those facts together and I think he is going to go EVERYWHERE wearing his sock-shoes from now on! GOOD LUCK!

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  51. You are SO funny!!!
    Thanks for all you do, Mr. Slipper Socks Man!!! ;)

    Joni, I see it now.....he's turning into your mascot!
    Tee hee

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  52. That is too funny. Maybe he'll be asked for his autograph next time he's recognized!

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  53. That's so incredibly sweet! You know, I've thought about that - just how well known a few of you design bloggers have gotten to be. I have to say, I'd have been pretty thrilled to see Mr. Slipper Socks Man!! And they're gonna be talkin' 'bout you in those damn tabloids if you're not careful! ;-) ;-)

    Hope your new year is a wonderful one, Joni. As far as your blog posts go, you're off to a FANTASTIC start.... Thank you, as usual!

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  54. This post just tickled me to death. I'm just giggling and giggling. It sounds like things at your house are going well!

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  55. OMG, are you drinking over there, you seem to be in such a fun mood! Such a funny post, I was wondering what was slipper socks, uuuu, now I see! That snuggie on him is hilarious! I've got to give that to some people (personalised) that i want to poke fun at too!

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  56. I would recognize your cutie anywhere. This post was delightful and is what you are so good at writing. Thank you for the laughs.

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  57. You are so funny Joni--I loved this post!

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  58. Love your post! My husband is exactly like yours, with the exception of the SS. He wears very worn boots and we live in Montecito! I have seen and met John Saladino several times. He is very nice, and is barely 5 ft. tall. Did you know that? Exquisite taste.....
    Wishing you and yours the best year ever!

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  59. How cute Joni! And I know how you feel about those slipper socks.....my husband loves his bright orange hunters hat with ear flaps. No, he doesn't hunt but it's good to wear when hiking our golden through the woods. The down side are those ear flaps...OMG! If they're down he's not allowed to go anywhere with me and if he does I pretend not to know him. It's a crutch we must bare with men and I still love him in spite of those earflaps. Love the post and how cute is Mr.Slipper Socks Man!.....Debra,

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  60. Oh gosh, I laughed until I had tears from my eyes. Then, had to read the entire post out loud to my husband. He, of course, did not understand what I thought was so funny! Well, it is us reincarnated! He never reads my blog but if I "used" him he'd definitely know and always ask if anyone commented on how cute he was and that he did not look 54. Nothing makes him prouder than to get carded at the market by the NEW checkout girl even though she has been told to card EVERYONE purchasing alcohol....bless his heart.

    Now, I read your blog, as does everyone I work with, religiously. I work for Rooney Robison Antiques in Charlotte, NC (http://www.rooneyrobison.com) and keep a picture blog for the shop (http://tuesdaysatrooneys.blogspot.com). We went right out and bought the chair book for Rooney's next antique talk/discussion group. You are a fabulous resourse and a fabulous inspiration to our shop. I, now, will move on to my Sunday morning reblogging on my personal drool site (http://crushparty.blogspot.com). If you visit, you will probably see many of your posts which will link my followers back to you by clicking the post title. I surely hope this is okay with you and I thank you for allowing us all to stalk you! Hugs from NC, Champagne Maker (http://champagnemaker.blogspot.com)

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  61. * Joni~ G' mornin', "Leading Lady" (to "Mr. Slipper Socks", of course!)...

    That's a G*R*E*A*T STORY about your Ben~~~ (Now THERE"S a very secure man to go out like that, for sure!). You kept me smiling all the way thru it!!! NOW, for the B*I*G QUESTION: Am I IMAGINING THINGS or was he wearing a "SNUGGLY" thingie, like you see advertised on TV??? (Ya just gotta love 'im!!!~ No pretensions!)...

    Thrilled you like the Zebra Files (sounds like the title of a good mystery novel, huh?)... they seemed sooooo "YOU"!!! ENJOY!!!

    Once again, HAPPY NEW YEAR & as always, THANKS for the continuing smiles you bring to so many!!!

    XO,
    Linda in AZ *
    bellesmom1234@comcast.net

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  62. joni... as usual... i could sit with a bowl of popcorn to read your blog... i seriously await your first novel... when does it come out? it would surely be a best seller... and then onto hollywood... maybe the next nancy meyers movie! xx pam

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  63. OMG.... I'm on day-three of a heinous migraine and I'm laughing and crying over Mr. Slipper Socks and it HURTS!!
    What a sweet surprise from Linda! A broken back?? Ouch. Hope you heal quickly Miss Linda!

    I loved the interview this week- it was fabulous.
    Happy New Year Joni!
    joan

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  64. Joni, this was such a fun read! Too cute about Mr Slipper Socks. And I am REALLY looking forward to the next SRT interview, how incredibly exciting ,the SRT portal has proven to be such an amazing success, I am so happy for you ladies;) I am off to listen to the Drucker interview... Happy 2010!

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  65. Soon Ben will need a bodyguard....your blog is to that point ! Even if no one knew who you were, Ben is so cute he probably needs a bodyguard, anyway.might need to put boots over those slipper socks. AND, my husband wears his knee-length bathing suit out all summer as "shorts"-makes me crazy.

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  66. I too love your blog, Joni. I've been reading for about 6 months now and always get a happy little tingle of anticipation when I see Cote de Texas in my email. Don't always agree with your design aesthetic but always enjoy the passion and dedication you bring to what you love. Decided it was about time I thank you for all the pleasure(and laughs!)you've given me.

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  67. CRACKING up laughing about the Mr. Slipper Socks siting at Goodes.

    PLEASE NEVER ever post anything like that photo of those Leave it to Beaver actors. I nearly poked out my mind's eye. Of course, AGE was an improvement for Eddie Haskell.

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  68. Be still my heart.

    A quail dinner from Goode & Co !!
    Please, please
    could I have some of their fab
    pecan pie for desert??!

    (there's nowhere in Santa Fe I
    could get quail & pecan pie --
    just all the green chili I want)

    Jjj

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  69. He is kinda cute, you know, Joni, and we'll never forget the dreadful slipper socks torture picture. So of course he's famous too...

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  70. Cute, cute story Joni! "Thank heavens for small mercies", as at least the Paparazzi didn't follow him home. SMILES -Brenda-

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  71. Of course Mr. Slipper Socks has "peeps" -- and soon he'll have his own entourage too! LOL! I tend to meet folks when I look terrible too! Of course if I met YOU at a local store -- I'd be jumping up and down! (and dragging you off for martinis .... and more shopping fun)


    Jan at Rosemary Cottage

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  72. Hi Joni... you know I love your blog... you are the best. But, I just couldn't help but feel a tinge of sorryfulness (is that a word?) for Mr. SS. When you said to ignore him when we saw him, I though...."awwwwwwww!!!!". What can I say? I'm a sucker for the less-popular in life! hehe

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  73. There's not much left to say after 74 comments, but I have to chime in and say that I'm roaring in front of the computer! You are so fabulous - my favorite read in the morning.

    Deborah in SY

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  74. hilarious about Ben...

    omg..if you have nancy meyers next week i will just die. die.
    cant wait to see what happens.

    every time i am near highland village or rice village i watch for you!;;; so if a crazy woman every comes running at you with a huge orange stroller..no fear..its just me!;; (and henry;;)

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  75. I just a mere 33, but I have always had a little crush on Wally. Such a cutie pie! Funny thing is...my hubby kind of reminds me of him!
    Love the picture in the monogrammed Snuggie. Too funny!

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  76. JONI,
    JUST GOT BACK FROM SEEING IT'S COMPLICATED....LOVED IT!!!! SUCH A FUN MOVIE. THE HOUSE IS TO DIE FOR! CAN'T WAIT TO SEE WHO YOU HAVE ON THE SKIRTED ROUND TABLE!!

    GREAT STORY ABOUT MR. SLIPPER SOCKS. TOO CUTE!
    LAUREN

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  77. Say Hi to the famous 'Mr. Slipper Socks Man' from me....OMG way too funny Joni!

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  78. Joni...you are a HOOT!! Tell S.S.M. that I am sure more than his footware was recognizable! He is one Studmuffin!! Wooo Hoooo!!!

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  79. I think I busted a stitch on this one!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  80. How funny is this? He actually went out in the slipper socks and got recognized! Don't expect it to stop now!

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  81. LOL! I laughed out loud when it got to the part that Ben was WEARING the slipper socks!!! that is too, too funny!! Love it! you are a such a joy to read every week!

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  82. LOL...your story about Mr. Slipper Socks cracked me up! And to think, since I have become obsessed with your blog, I've looked for you when I'm in Starbucks (found out from your e-mail that you go to a different one than I do!)--I'm going to have to start looking for Mr. Slipper Socks when we are eating at Goode Company, in fact we got takeout from there just last night!

    Thanks for your sweet reply to my email! It sure was a great way to start the New Year.

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  83. Howling with laughter at your cute Mr. Slipper Socks celebrity! I only thought I was married to a Mr. Slipper Socks too. I don't think mine has ever left the house with his on...not that I would put him past it. But believe me, I would get excited if I saw him in line too. After all, he's married to one of the best bloggers in the Southwest! One of my favorites, at least. So how was the chili cheeseburger? Sounds like ya'll celebrate New Year's Eve like we do.

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  84. Joni, that story was so funny I called my husband into my office to read & show it to him. After working all afternoon on real estate, then having to finish cleaning the kitchen (my Sunday for the family Sunday lunch), I needed that story & laugh. I always look forward to your blog updates because they are informative & humorous. Thanks for all your hard work in putting these things together. BTW - if I saw Ben or you in the check out line I would be excited!!

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  85. joni the CRAZIEST thing happened to me today and I thought of this post! long story short, someone recognized my son from my BLOG! YIKES! I literally have a small tiny handful of followers, and I don't believe she was even one of them. creeepy. haha. Anyhoo, thought of you when that happened! xo grace
    nameisgrace.blogspot.com

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  86. Thanks so much for the laugh! You both are adorable!!

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  87. Joni, my wife loves your blog and so do I. Mr. Slipper Socks is too funny!!! I just want you to know that as a business coach in the Houston area, I tell business owners frequently about your blog. You do a fantastic job with it. Keep up the great work. You're awesome.

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  88. Love your blog! Thanks for the inspiration and laughs!
    Serena

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  89. I am so happy I found your blog! I just love it! It is simply beautiful. Thanks for sharing this cute and funny story.

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  90. Too too funny. You'll be lucky if he ever takes them off!

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  91. OMG! I think our husbands were separated at birth! Roger also has slipper socks and his favorite expression of enthusiasm is, "That's fine." On the other hand, if I had someone who was high maintenance and bounced off the walls . . . well, we wouldn't have lasted our 28 years together. Keep inspiring us with beauty and laughter!

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  92. Joni, we have a lot in common! When my daughter missed the bus this morning here in Atlanta, I threw on my mink over my PJs and slipper socks and drove her to school. I even made stroll down to the mailbox. I love slipper socks! A few days ago I slipped on my husbands crocs with my fur to go to the mailbox. Now that was tacky. I was praying that I didn't run into any neighbors!
    I also have a springer named Dixie Belle.

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  93. Can you hear the cackling in Phoenix! Oh my goodness my sides are splitting!

    I actually was thinking of you this am. Scored two great wing chairs on Craiglist yesterday. Pulled out the antique grain sacks I have been saving for an upholstery project. They have my and Mr. Decor's initials on them. So I place the sacks over the backs of the chairs to give Mr. Decor a "feel" for the look. (Alas the man has no rose colored glasses.) He says, "Is that going to be comfortable?" This is met with wife's silence. Then he says, "Oh, is this a situation that it is going to look so cute who cares if you feel like your sitting on sandpaper?"
    "Yes." I replied. :)

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  94. Joni!
    Told like ONLY YOU can tell! I love it, so cute that Mr Slipper Socks Man is. my DH doesn't read my blog either, or my sister. My mom does so sometimes I have to be careful about what I say! heehee
    Don't ya need a trip to ATL? Come while E is gone, I'll take care of you!
    xo

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  95. This post was great, Joni. It made me laugh - Ben and his slipper socks are a classic! You are both becoming celebs for sure. XO

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  96. oh my gosh, you make me laugh out loud! He is cute now and was cute then, but you are the cutest of all. And I would send you a card if I had your address, b/c I so appreciate all the entertainment derived from your blog!! Happy New Year! And don't throw out the slipper socks- too funny.

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  97. Oh my goodness did I ever love this post. You had me cracking up. There is nothing better than hearing a blogger talk about the not so fabulous things in their lives, it makes the rest of us feel normal! And by the way, you are full of class and don't let anyone tell you differently!
    ~Michelle

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  98. You know Joni, you are really funny! Seriously! I was dying laughing, and of course I had to read your post to Mr. A. He got a kick out of it too. So glad Mr. Slipper Socks Man had his 15 minutes of fame!
    My girlfriends and I are coming to Houston during Round Top time and we will keep our eyes peeled for a possible "celebrity sighting" of Mr. SSM.
    Have you thought maybe Mr. SSM is starting a trend? Suddenly men will be wearing slipper socks everywhere! Who knew? --Delores

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  99. Well this is just funny! My guy ran to the grocery the other night for a couple of items. When he got back he informed me he looked at his feet at some point during the trip only to realize he had worn is house slippers in public. Mr. Slipper Socks may have done it on purpose, but what the heck. It's stories like those that become favorites!

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  100. What a cute story! I think it's hilarious that he went out in his slipper socks!

    I can't wait for the It's Complicated post. That was an awesome movie...visually beautiful and so funny. I would love to see more interior shots from Meryl Streep's character's bakery/restaurant. I was in love with the aesthetics of her bakery.

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  101. Hey girlfriend!

    This post was totally hysterical! My "Texan hubby" also has gone through this, and I KNOW I rarely put him on the blog...oh but wait, he is only "mentioned" on the blog and then they meet him at the store front. ;)

    Great post sweetie...hope to see you "outside the loop" soon! xo..deb

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  102. you have us crazking up. I LOVE IT!!! too funny he had on his slipper socks!! (but still- so exciting!!!)

    I didn't know Linda had broken her back- oh no!! She is SO amazing & knows how to make anyone's day. -When I see a comment from her coming I get so excited.

    big hug,
    L

    aho did you get for SRT?!!! now i'm going crazy!!!;)

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  103. I love you , your blog, and your sweet hubbie. Keep it up doll!

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  104. I have a "sheepskin slipper man". The technology age is quite amazing isn't it. Wonderful post, he is a cutie...I think I would keep him if I were you!

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  106. This is the first post I've read on your blog (and I snuck a peak at the photos below: Love the last photo of the living room set up) and I can't wait to read more. So fun! I'm a Texan too :-)

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  107. funny joni! love that he wore the slippers out. over the holidays, my hubby actually wore his flannel pj bottoms to our small local grocery store. hmmmmmph.

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  108. Joni you are so talented and insightful, with such a keen eye for color. Please create a worthy slipper sock for all men to wear out picking up their quail-to-go-order or weekend errands. Cheers to fearless Mr. Slipper Socks!

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  109. How hilarious is that! Our hubbies get noticed too. Can't say that's ever happened to us, but your story sure was funny.

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  110. Hi Joni:
    Happy New Year! Mr.Slipper Socks is ahhh so lucky...I love your spaniel too! Is it Georgia? Zebra files - what a wonderful gift! Stephen is one of my favoriate editors!

    FYI - Just saw It's Complicated last night & I believe I spotted Farrow & Ball (Ringwold) in the daughters bedroom. Loved the movie...By the way!

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  111. Joni-Don't you wish we all had men's self confidence--the world is all about them :) Tonight we had "the kids" over for dinner. I looked up and my Beloved had on a white dress shirt and vest(left over from work) and flannel plaid Ole Miss pj bottoms--I BURST out laughing. It looked like a school uniform :) He failed to see the humor. That Linda is a sweetie--love your present. Thanks for a great story. And, oh yes, I am horrified to admit that I knew who the first three were before I saw the second picture--oh dear.

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  112. Joni - what a delightfully funny post - you are such a great writer and have such a sharp wit. You really need to get a book contract. I can write the cover blurb. : )

    Mr. Slipper Socks man is very funny wearing his slipper socks out like that. Thank heavens you figured it out because honestly, you would have to be a stalker to recognize him, although there are people (I am not one) who recognize faces they have only seen once. Some genetic mutation no doubt.

    I really enjoyed the Stephen Drucker roundtable. He seemed to really warm up and was very nice and open. He is totally a guy to get drunk and have him tell you what he really feels about those rooms haha. He must not love them all, as some are truly garbage. haha. Even I know that. I do love HB but there are some awful spreads and some stunningly fresh ones. Frankly I have had enough of the Morocco theme, thanks very much and all the people raving about their junk from "Marrakech". I think they are just showing off that they even know where Marrakech is. I would be afraid to go there. People sell their girlfriends in return for a camel there. Brave decorators.

    Anyway, babbling now. Loved this post!
    xo Terri

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  113. crack me up! Love it! Long live the slipper socks!

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  114. Pido disculpas por no poder escribir en inglés.

    Paso grandes ratos, viendo su blog.

    Sus fotos son siempre magnificas.

    Llamó mi atención, ver en sus fotos, la presencia de orquídeas. Soy fan de las orquídeas.

    Un saludo desde Madrid. España.

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  115. He's still adorable. Love that snuggy!

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  116. Nice handsome guy (to put up with all that publicity...)and still smiling at you!!! Mine growls every time I put him in the blog, therefore you will see practically nothing of him. Ha, nobody ever recognizes him as Mr.?
    Anyway, you make me smile, laugh and rolling in my seat!

    If you will kindly send me your adress, I will send you a card for the next holidays!

    Kisses! V.

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  117. "Effusive apologies about my poor manners gush out from me like a geyser as a much nicer and gentler shopper suddenly invades my body." How funny and charming and talented are you? I live in California and my friend lives in Florida...your blog had us smiling together in spite of the distance. Thank you.

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  118. Joni...the Mr. Slipper Socks story is a riot! LOL How cute is he...slipper socks and all! You can't toss them out...their his signature accessory! Isn't Linda the sweetest! She is a love to send you those adorable files!

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  119. Oh you really have a keeper!
    When my husband would take our daughter when she was a wee thing, everyone knew her and he was so amazed at how famous she was around town!
    Like Andy Warhol says, "Everybody needs 2 minutes of fame."
    Slipper socks is such a sweetie. Love this post.
    pve

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  120. This is the best thing i've read in ages - thanks so much for sharing this gorgeous story!!

    Way too funny (and lovely!).

    All good things and many blessings for 2010.

    jules :)

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  121. Joni, this post made me laugh so much. Thanks for sharing it !!Love your zebra girft, you are lucky !!

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  122. Have just returned from Summer vaction & what a great way to start the blog year off Joni - with a lots of laughter & much 'Oh I can relate to that!'. Having been foolish enough to let MOTH do one Guest Blog spot when I was ill last year, it's now turned into a nightmare. I get requests most days for a return Guest appearance & as we say here, he's become a legend in his own lunchtime! The final straw came when he casually mentioned last week he might start his own blog - & he's only just learnt how to turn on the computer! Maybe Mr. Slipper Socks & MOTH could do a combo. blog, now that WOULD be interesting!
    Millie ^_^

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  123. That is SUCH a great story! Thanks for the best laugh I've had today.

    Your hubs is still a cutie and how fun that he was so excited about being recognized. I love it that he thinks it's just fine to go to the takeout line in his slipper socks! HA! :-D

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  124. PLEASE...I must know where you got your couch and slipcover...!

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