Enjoying the Outdoors: Mocktails and Pest Control

Now that the summer is finally here, it’s time to make some time to kick back with the family and enjoy the lovely weather! Let’s put together two super important components so that you can enjoy some well-deserved, pest-free outdoor time. First we’ve found a few mocktails that everyone can enjoy (with instructions for an “adult” touch when needed), and then we’ll jump into a little home-made pest protections.

Looking for something sweet to celebrate with? How about a Berry Mimosa:

You'll need: a handful halved strawberries, ½ cup cranberry juice, 1 cup raspberry flavored seltzer (or flavored ginger ale), and sprigs of mint. (For the adult version add a splash of vodka to the grownups’ cups)

Combine liquids in a small pitcher, and then pour evenly into champagne glasses. Top with half of a strawberry and a mint sprig.

How about a Cucumber Melon Agua Fresca?

You'll need: 1 8lb watermelon, 2 large cucumbers, 2-4 tablespoons of lime juice, 1-2 cups granulated sugar, 2 cups of water. (Add an ounce or two of your favorite liquor)

Remove the rind and seeds from your watermelon and cut it up into cubes. Peel and cut your cucumber into chunks. Puree both in a blender, in batches if needed, and then mix in your water. Add lime juice and sugar to taste. Chill your delicious concoction for up to 4 hours (or until very, very cold) before serving over ice.

Lastly, here’s a perfect fruit punch to sit back and cool down with.

You’ll need: 2 cups cranberry juice, 1 cup pineapple juice, 1 cup orange juice, ¼ cup grenadine, ¼ cup lime juice, 1 thinly sliced lemon, 1 thinly sliced lime, 3 ½ cups of cold club soda. (For an adult twist add 2 ounces of vodka or rum to 3 ounces of punch)

Mix all of your juices together in a big pitcher and chill for an hour. Add your lemons, limes and club soda right before serving.

Once you've chosen your mocktail (or cocktail) of choice, next you need to make sure that everyone will be relaxing in peace. Here’s a super simple and natural insect repellent that will help you enjoy the outdoors.

You'll need the following:

• Spray bottle for your mix
• 2 tablespoons of witch hazel
• 2 tablespoons of almond, jojoba, or olive oil
• 50-60 drops of essential oils of choice

List of oils that repel insects:

• Lemon eucalyptus (but not recommended for use on children under 3 years old)
• Cedarwood
• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Citronella
• Eucalyptus
• Tea tree
• Peppermint
• Cypress
• Rose geranium
• Bergamot
• Lemon
• Cinnamon

Combine your oil of choice and witch hazel in bottle first. Mix in your preferred combination of essential oils (you can choose 1, 2, 3, or all!) and shake well. Spray directly onto skin or clothing every hour or so. Unused repellent can be kept in a dark, cool place (even the refrigerator) until it’s needed again. It can be kept for a long period of time, but shake before each use.