Pesky Winged Vampire Beasts

In all my years living in San Diego (eleven, in case you were wondering) I have NEVER seen as many mosquitoes as I have at this field. Holy malaria they are everywhere!

If you don’t want to cover yourself in deet to survive a night playing with these mighty little beasts, then I have some other, more natural suggestions for you.

1. Carry a citronella candle with you everywhere….just be sure to drop it in time to catch that big red ball heading your way – unless you are not on my team, then make sure that you hang on to that candle.
2. Incorporate mosquito netting into your uniform. Where it like you would a ghost costume. Perhaps cut some holes for your eyes and arms – but that defeats the purpose, I suggest leaving it as is.

Ok, those may or may not be helpful suggestions, depending on your coordination skills. However, here are a couple of actually helpful tips:

1. Lavender – this seemed to work well for me last week. In previous visits to the field, I had barely made it out of there alive. Seriously, I only had one pint (of beer) left! Last week I covered myself with pure Lavender oil (just a dab on the finger tip and a swipe down each arm and leg) and not only did the mosquitoes steer clear, but I smelled pretty too.
2. Covering up – it is cold anyway, but the more covered up your skin is, the less the mosquitoes will want to eat you – I guess we know what sex these bugs are ;)
3. Embrace the chemical solution and go for a deet shower before the game.

Mosquitoes are most active at dusk – which is right when we are arriving at the field. Just keep in mind, they will chill out after a drink or two.