This past Sunday I met up with a few friends I hadn't seen in a while. We hooked up downtown Orlando for some brunch, and then checked out the farmer's market around Lake Eola.

For brunch we went to Graffiti Junktion, (an american burger bar) a new spot that opened on that same day. Their motto is simple: Eat, drink, paint! Yes  paint...you are free to leave your artistic marks on their Graffiti walls! The bartenders are fun and entertaining, the atmosphere is very pleasant, the service is fast, and the staff is very courteous.  

Overall, I think we all had a good time at this new spot. We met one of the owners (really cool guy), and enjoyed some free bloody maries and screw drivers. For my brunch meal, I ordered the french toast sticks, topped with fresh fruits and maple syrup. (The zucchini fries appetizer is also a must!)

Later that afternoon we took a walk down the downtown back streets, checked out the farmer's market, and sampled varieties of foods and treats such has rum cake, cheese, and funnel cake...perfect weather for a Sunday Fun Day in Orlando.

First, let me say that when we lived with my parents, my brothers and I were never required to take our shoes off when entering the house.  Had it been enforced, I don't think I would have had any issues with it. The floors throughout the house were being cleaned daily regardless of the situation; so it made no difference in the matter.

About a week ago, I had a discussion with a friend of mine regarding the famous "Shoes-off Please" topic. Based on the research I have done on the subject, as well as my friend's opinion, it is my understanding that this is sensitive subject for a lot of people out there. From what I gathered, many are against removing their shoes when entering someone's home for various reasons.

Personally, I understand why some people maybe against it, but at the same time I was also raised to respect other people's way of life. We are all different in our own little ways, but overall, I think it is OK for one to look beyond personal preferences in order to make the hosts feel at ease about receiving you in their home. Of course, it also depends on the occasion. Events such as black tie or dressed to impress parties are examples of situations where one cannot be expected to remove shoe wear. In situations like these, I think it is up to the homeowner (or tenant) to understand the type of event to host in their private residence.

For me, this has simply become a way of life. What can I say, I like to keep things clean, simple, organized, and of course casual. I believe that my house is a reflection of me, and the way I do things in my daily life. With that in mind, I designed the entertainment area with a warm, trendy and cozy feel to it; and I think it works...without shoes :)