Summer nights are just so magical. The way the sun sets, the smell of lingering barbecue throughout the neighborhood, the still moments of carelessness, and the light show of the fireflies—it is a small blessing we try to discover every chance we get as a family. We love to go  for walks in the evening when it cools off a bit, but the idea of spraying us all down with chemical-laden bug spray shortly before bedtime isn’t on this mom’s approved list. I decided to whip up a safe, kid-friendly, and most importantly, effective bug repellent spray. This spray includes lavender, citronella and lemongrass, which means it will repel many different types of pests. The ingredients are all natural and smell amazing, so if we have taken baths earlier to rinse all the chlorine off, we don’t have to worry about another bath. I will even let my daughter help me mix it together, which helps when it comes to application time. Because she was involved in the process, she is more likely to want to put it on.

Natural Bug Repellent Spray

• 8 oz. glass spray bottle
• 10 drops lavender pure essential oil
• 10 drops citronella pure essential oil
• 10 drops lemongrass pure essential oil
• witch-hazel
• Water

Start by adding in the essential oils; then fill the remainder of the bottle with equal parts witch- hazel and water. Give the bottle a shake before applying each time. Spray on skin and clothes. Go outside!