My wife and I did some Christmas shopping together a few weeks ago. In the process, I bought myself some footwear.

She looked at me and commented, “Another pair of slippers?”

“Yes,” I hastily replied. “The others are getting worn out.”

“Then throw them away,” she mumbled while walking away from me.

OK, she is right — on both notes. I probably don’t need another pair of slippers, and I do need to throw some away.

I am, admittedly, Mr. Rogers when it comes to slippers (and zip-up sweaters, but that’s a subject for another day). I realize that Fred didn’t actually slip on slippers. He changed into a casual shoe with laces. Similarly, I wear shoes to work and then immediately change into actual slippers I keep in my desk. I have a pair at our office in Johnston and another pair at our office in Guthrie Center. They are cozy and comfortable, and they keep my feet warm. What more could a guy ask for?

The answer, of course, is more slippers. That’s why I have a pair or two at home, and another pair or two at our cabin. And, I found an old pair in our camper.

I compiled this slipper collection over many years, mostly as Christmas presents. It all started when I was in college and my mother gave me a wonderful pair of brown corduroy slippers with a rubber sole. I wore them inside, outside, everywhere. I lost track of how many times people would ask me, “Are those slippers?” And, unfortunately, I lost track of those brown corduroy slippers.

The problem today, as my wife noted, is that I don’t toss out the old slippers when I get new ones. So, they add up, so much so that my family members no longer buy me slippers as presents. That’s unfortunate, but I do understand. I also have a solution: I now buy my own slippers.

Anyone else have a fondness for slippers? Send me a note and share.

Have a thoughtful Thursday, and thanks for reading.

Shane Goodman
Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
www.thedailyumbrella.com

Read more of Shane Goodman's columns here.

Our quest to find the best hot beef sandwich in town has a new nominee, and it surprised us. Noah’s has been serving it this winter-fall, and the gravy makes the difference. This light-colored gravy reminds us of pan drippings more than usual darker gravies that accompany this cold weather dish. Noah’s also surprised us by using eye of round roast beef. We usually prefer fattier roast cuts (preferred in pot roast) but Noah’s has learned to make round roast tender as any cuts. Send us your favorite place for hot beef sandwiches.

First Friday at Mainframe Studios
Bright Beginnings. Friday, Jan. 2, 5-8 p.m.

AUDITIONS – Carousel Theatre of Indianola, "The Underpants"
Directed by Michael Howland, Jan. 5, 6, 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church of Indianola, Ashland Avenue door.

Visit one of the region’s great destination attractions:
· State Historical Society of Iowa
· Science Center of Iowa
· Blank Park Zoo
· Des Moines Art Center
· Gold Star Military Museum

FEATURE STORY
Winter Arts & Entertainment Guide

By Cyote Williams

Each winter, the desire to shut the doors, close the blinds and stay hunkered down while the wind, snow and cold weather creep in grows stronger. We would say we don’t blame you, but we do.

When winter comes, instead of staying under the blanket with a warm cup of cocoa, we get to work finding many of the best places, events and performances happening in the colder months. After all, award-winning artists are showcasing their creations consistently throughout the season. Broadway shows are showing at the Des Moines Performing Arts Center. World-class athletes are putting their skills on display on the ice and on the hardwood. Musical performances are bringing wonderful sounds to the strong variety of musical venues the city has to offer. If that wasn’t enough for you, we have a catch-all events section full of reasons to get out of the house and into the city. ...

Meet Quinn O’Connor
Sparking imagination while teaching history

By T.K. West

As a 2013 graduate of Southeast Polk, Quinn O’Connor’s family continues to create deep roots within the local community. It began with O’Connor’s father and all of his father’s siblings graduating from the district, followed by O’Connor, his siblings and his cousins. Now, along with his wife, who is also a 2013 alumni, O’Connor has returned to his alma mater as a teacher.

“Teaching at Southeast Polk is rewarding because I’m able to impact the community I grew up in and still live in,” O’Connor says. “I had a lot of great teachers going through Southeast Polk, so it is a neat opportunity to be part of shaping the next generation of SEP students making their way through life.” ...

Happy birthday, Jason Wilson!

These celebrities were born on this date: Ice Spice, Noah Kahan, Tank, Angourie Rice, Diamond White, Morris Chestnut, Colin Morgan, Darius Slay

SUBMIT: Send your local birthday greetings and congratulatory notes to: tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

The answer to the last riddle: Why did 2025 go by in a blur? THE RESOLUTION WAS TOO LOW.

Today's riddle: What’s the worst part of jogging on New Year’s Eve? 

Have a guess? Email tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

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