DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-tolumide) is the most effective chemical ingredient for repelling bugs. Apply bug repellent containing DEET to all exposed areas of skin before going outside. Be sure to reapply the repellent according to the product's label's instructions. Make sure not to use DEET-based repellents when wearing sunglasses or plastic eyeglass lenses, as the chemical can dissolve plastics and some synthetic materials. A few studies have suggested there can be adverse side effects to DEET. DEET-containing repellents have however been approved by the EPA and the Center for Disease Control as safe for long-term human use when used according to the label instructions. Picaridin is a synthetic compound derived from plant extract. It is man-made like DEET, but a compound rather than a chemical. Picaridin has not been as widely tested as DEET, but current studies show it to be just as effective, and it is not harmful to any materials. Many of the major bug repellent producers, such as Cutter, carry repellents based on Picaridin. Permethrin is both a repellent and insecticide, meaning that has the ability to kill bugs on contact as well as repel them by scent. It is recommended by the EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) for use on clothing, shoes, bed nets, and camping gear. Spray only on fabrics and do not spray on clothing while you're wearing it. Use only repellents and permethrin-based products that have specific instructions for treating clothing. After an item has been sprayed with a product containing permethrin, the fabric will repel insects through several washings.
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One-sentence summary -- Use a DEET-based chemical repellent. Apply a Picaridin-based repellent. Spray permethrin repellent on clothing.

yet warm around them. Don't be cold-shouldered and aloof around your in-laws and expect them to like you. Put your best foot forward and demonstrate a relaxed, inviting personality. Smile, greet them warmly, shake hands, and hug, if that's typical in your family. Let your in-laws know that you're interested in developing a relationship with them and they'll have a positive perception of you. Do this by taking an interest in their lives and their interests. A simple, "How's that garden coming along, Mrs. Henderson?" or "Have you been fishing lately. Mr. Greene? I'd love to hear about your latest catch," can show how thoughtful you are. Parents love to feel like they are imparting knowledge onto their childrenin-laws are no different. Show regard for them and their unique skills by asking their advice about a dilemma or requesting that they teach you something. For example, if your father-in-law built an impressive deck, you might ask him for pointers on your own backyard landscaping. If your mother-in-law is a talented baker, ask her to show you how to make her famous apple pie. You can also show interest in the lives and histories of your in-laws by asking them to tell you more about their own upbringings or what your spouse was like as a child. Sharing heartfelt or funny stories can help you bond. You might say, "Sylvia is so determined. Was she like that as a girl, too?" Nothing shows your attention and consideration like keeping up with the little things. Help your in-laws develop fond feelings for you by noticing the little details that are important to them. For example, if you invite your in-laws over for dinner, purchase the type of wine they like. If your father-in-law had a big presentation at work, ask how it went the next time you see him. Another way to make your in-laws like you is by giving them gifts. Consider picking up a bouquet of their favorite flowers before a visit or ask them to tag along when you score tickets to a sporting event. Don't overdo the gift-giving, as this can come off as insincere or make them feel like you are trying to "buy" their affection. However, gifts can be a thoughtful way to show your in-laws how much you care.
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One-sentence summary -- Be polite Inquire about their lives. Ask their advice. Ask them to tell stories. Remember little details. Bring gifts.

In a medium saucepan, add a teaspoon of salt and the peeled and chopped potatoes, then cover with cold water. Bring to a full boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for about ten minutes, until a fork or knife can easily pierce the potato. Drain the potatoes, then return the saucepan to the stove, stirring occasionally for about a minute until the surface moisture has steamed away. In a large bowl, mash the potatoes until smooth. Mix the egg yolk and cream together, and blend into the potatoes along with the melted butter. Add the scallions, then salt and pepper to taste. When you're satisfied, cover and set aside while you prepare the filling. Heat 1 teaspoon vegetable oil in a heavy skillet until just beginning to smoke, and quickly brown the beef in 4 batches. When finished, set aside. In the same skillet, heat 1 teaspoon vegetable oil until shimmering, then add the mushrooms and onions. Cook 5 to 6 minutes, until the onions are just softened and turning brown at the edges. Add the garlic and tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes. Stir in the porter, scraping the bottom to loosen the fond, and cook for about a minute, then add the flour, stirring and cooking for another minute. Pour in the stock, add the anchovy, thyme and bay leaf bundle, and carrots. When the mixture comes to a boil, reduce heat and bring the mix to a low simmer. Stir in the beef, cooking for five to ten minutes, and continue stirring occasionally. Add in the cornstarch, and stir for another 30 seconds. Remove the thyme and bay leaf bundle, and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper, to taste. Slide the pie into the oven, and broil for 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes are nicely browned. Remove, let sit for for a few minutes. Garnish with scallions and parsley, and serve piping hot with a hearty ale.
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One-sentence summary --
Prepare the potatoes. Mash the potatoes. Prepare the beef. Cook the veggies. Add the porter. Add the rest of the ingredients. Broil the pie.