I don't like bugs, nobody does except for maybe an Entomologist. There are bugs that I can live with (unless it's inside my house) and bugs that I can live without. Dh sprays around the house after winter to keep the big black ants out. Our house is located in a wooded lot so we have those in the summer. It's not as bad as you may think, I'll see one or two a week at the most but it still gives me the creeps.

Insects seek higher and drier ground during heavy rains so you might get a visit during wet weather or they might visit when it is too hot. No matter when, you don't want them in your house. First, there's the "yuck" or 'ick" or "fill in your favorite @&#!" factor, second, it's hard to get rid of them once they're in the house.

Here are some tips to keep bugs out of your house. If you have MANY bugs, you might want to consider calling an exterminator.

FOR ANTS:

- Seal as many cracks in the house's exterior as possible.

- Trim tree and shrub branches to prevent them from touching the house.

- Eliminate piles of debris from around the home. They could serve as nesting sites for ants.

- Do not allow food to sit out. Store all food items in sealed containers.- Dispost of trash regularly, and discard it in a lid-sealed container.

- If you notice ants in your home, clean their path with soap and water.

- Immediately clean food or drink spills to remove any residue that could be left behind.

FOR ROACHES:

- Clean counters and floors regularly to eliminate food scraps, and put food away in sealed containers.

- Do not allow pet food to sit out overnight.

- Seal all cracks and holes in the home's exterior, especially along the foundation.

- Install screening on all vents and exterior openings.

- Ensure the attics or crawl spaces have sufficient ventilation. Research shows that proper ventilation creates an environment unsuitable for cockroaches and other pests.

- Eliminate piles of lumber and debris where cockroaches could residue.

- Store firewood as far from the house as possible, ensuring it is placed off the ground and covered with a tart or plastic.

Source: Standard Times (Diane Morales)