I hope this post finds you happy and healthy and that 2014 is off to a good start.
After taking a little time off for the holidays, some school release days and a few days attending a landscape industry trade show its time to get back into the swing of the Environmindful Monday tips!
Environmindful Monday Tip #8
- Leave your shoes at the door. Did you know that the soles of your shoes are a major source of transferring not only dirt, but also chemicals and pesticides into your home? Prevent contaminants from entering your home and ultimately into your skin and lungs by leaving your shoes outside. In cold climates, especially during the winter, the idea of leaving shoes outside in -30 degree temps might not sound appealing and I can’t say I disagree. If you have a porch or covered entry it may not be as bad, but you don’t have a good space to leave shoes outdoors then get a good door mat, make a habit of wiping off the soles of your shoes well and leaving them on a door mat or rug that can be washed on a regular basis. Although it is common to be asked to remove your shoes before entering a home in Europe or Japan, it’s not as common in the United States. If you’re not used to asking guests to remove their shoes it can feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but as much as it may be tempting to “let” them leave their shoes on, keep in mind that you are protecting yourself, your friends and your family by leaving shoes at the door. You can help guests feel a little more comfortable by keeping a basket of slippers or big fluffy slipper-socks near the door and offering a pair to wear to keep their feet warm while they visit. Not everyone will take you up on the offer, but some may appreciate the gesture.
Be. Mindful.
Kate
Walnuts n Pears 
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