Petite Planet Poll: Do You Remove Your Shoes at the Door?

Japan has one of the highest life expectancy rates in the world, (the third highest). The United States isn't even ranked in the top ten nations with the highest life expectancy. Do you suppose the fact that it's a Japanese custom to remove your shoes before entering a house, or restaurant or business has anything to do with their longevity? I do!

Since Olivia's birth, we have been staunch advocates of the "remove your shoes before entering" our house philosophy. Some people willingly and happily oblige, while others act as though I've asked them to take out their kidney with a butter knife. What's the big deal anyway? Who wants to wear shoes all the time?

For those who oppose this practice or think it's an unnecessary measure taken to keep the home environment clean and free of toxins, consider the inarguable facts. You can cut the amount of dirt and dust in your home by a whopping 60% if your simply remove your shoes before entering your house. Watch this clip from Healthy Child, Healthy World for the lowdown.

And proving once and for all that you can find ANYTHING on the Internet, I just came across this blog called: "Shoes Off at the Door, Please." If someone can write an entire blog about the topic, it's a worthwhile cause.

And think about if you have a baby who crawls on the floor... they are down there amidst all the muck that is tread in from outside... spit on the sidewalk, cigarette butts... need I go on here?

Invest in a cozy pair of slippers, leave them by your front door and slip them on when you come in. Offer guests a cozy pair of socks or slippers in exchange for their shoes too!

While you're at it, drink some green tea and unwind. Maybe we can put America on the long life list one of these days...

Do you ask guests to remove their shoes before entering your home?
	Yes - I'm all for this easy way of keeping my environment clean.
	No - We kick back in our kicks all the live long day!
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