Bugs, Ticks, Ants, OH MY!

Try as you might, these bugs are “out to get you” — and they can quickly ruin a good day outside!

The Story No One Asked For…

Just yesterday, I had an unfortunate event happen. I was in the shower and halfway through, I thought I’d washed off a butt nugget—but nope… it was a tick.

“Damn, Skinny! Why’d you have to gross me out this early?!”
Well, because that’s where this blog is headed — straight to the nether regions and ticks!

Just when you thought it was safe to catch up on one of my stories, I go and throw a curveball at you.

Springtime: When Everything Wants to Bite You

Thankfully, spring is here again! And with it comes our good friends — bugs, ticks, and everything else that wants to join us outdoors.

When I was taking that shower (no mental images, please), the darndest thing happened. Something hit the shower floor — a big tick, not one of those tiny nymphs. Normally, I can feel those little suckers crawling before they ever get a chance to “lock on.”
Not this time.
And that brings me to today’s topic: ticks and the wonderful, itchy world of bugs.

Getting Older Means Checking Closer

As we age (sadly), our sense of touch dulls a bit. That means checking for ticks takes a little more effort — and maybe a trusted friend. (If you’ve got one, there’s even a song about it: “Ticks” by Brad Paisley.)

That thought led me right into today’s tip — how I fight back against the bugs.

Skinny’s Secret Weapon: Granules and Rain

Just a few minutes before writing this, I was out with my crank spreader tossing Sevin granules around the yard. I grab mine from the big blue box store (you know the one that rhymes with Low’s).
Not my favorite store, but it has stuff.

Anyway, as I was choking through the dust cloud, I remembered how well this trick works and figured I’d share it.

For the past five years, I’ve treated the yard twice a year — once in spring, once mid-summer — and always right before a rainfall. The rain activates the granules without wasting water. It’s incredibly effective for knocking down the bug population and making evenings outside far more enjoyable.

I’m not one for killing unnecessarily… but this is one exception I’ll make!

The Aftermath (and Safety Tips)

Once the granules soak into the soil, they take care of most bugs, larvae, and worms — which means fewer moles (they go snack somewhere else), fewer ticks, and fewer ants trying to move into your house.

But there’s a catch: spreading those granules comes with a price — sweat and tears.
If the dust mixes with moisture (like sweat, or anything around your eyes, nose, or mouth), it burns like crazy.

Here’s how to do it safely:

• Wear a mask (yeah, I know… again).

• Use protective glasses.

• Shower right after you’re done.

• Keep pets out of the area for at least three days after the rain.

• Treat your yard in halves, so your furry friend can still roam the safe side.

After a nice steady rainfall (no heavy storms), the granules will settle, and you’ll get about three months of protection — fewer bugs, fewer bites, and a lot more peaceful evenings outdoors.

Bonus Tip: Skin So Soft for the Win

When I’m out on the trail or working in the yard toward evening, I like to spritz on a little Avon Skin So Soft (SSS).
It’s a mild, refreshing bug deterrent that also helps with minor chafing and rash from clothes or gear. There are stronger repellents out there, but this one’s perfect for short trips and casual outdoor use.

Share Your Tips!

Got a secret bug-busting trick of your own? Drop it in the comments — your fellow outdoor folks (and I) would love to hear it.

Until next time,
Stay itch-free and Get Outside and Play!