Natural Bug Repellant

I'm a bug magnet. If there's a mosquito within a mile, he'll make a beeline for me. So each warm season I mix up a batch of natural bug repellant. It may not always combat every No-see-um, but it helps keep bug bites at bay and smells divine, especially on a warm summer evening when candlelight is best kept company with scents other than Deet.

No-Bug Blend: In a four- or six-ounce glass spray bottle mix 12 drops each of Essential Oils of Citronella, Lemon, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Cedar, Peppermint, and Geranium. (Cinnamon and Clove mixed with Cedar offers a simpler but spicier alternative.) Place a few drops around the perimeter of your sitting area, such as the edges of your patio. Then fill the bottle with distilled water and shake gently. Spray outdoor area as needed. (I often spray the seat cushions and umbrella awning, as well. The blend is safe for most fabrics and skin, but do a patch test first to ensure you won't have an adverse reaction.)