Home and Garden Chat

Picnics are among the most fun outdoor activities and they can be very inexpensive. But there are plenty of people who do not know how to plan a picnic. If you are looking to create a memorable day, plan a picnic and cherish the quality time together. Picnics are a relaxing way to spend a weekend afternoon and is a perfect way to enjoy your friends and family. I enjoy packing simple and delicious picnics full of flavor. Where you decide to have your picnic will depend on who you decide to invite. Be sure to pick an area that is large enough to comfortable accommodate all whom you invite. Another thing to consider, is the place safe for small children or the handicapped. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and try to plan your picnic on a day that is supposed to be sunny and warm. However, in case of rain, try to hold your picnic in an outdoor area that has some coverage or nearby shelter
You can ask as many or as few people as you would like to your picnic. Keep in mind, though, that as the host, you are implying that you will be bringing all the food and supplies for everyone you ask to join you. A good way to arrange a picnic for a large group of people is to have a pot-luck picnic, where everyone is responsible to bring a certain food item.
Making the food yourself is not hard when you come up with a workable plan. It takes just a little bit of thought and research. You don’t have to cook food for the picnic,  you can plan cold food items like fruits, olives, sandwiches, cheese, crackers and sliced deli meat, and several different vegetable dips served with cut up vegetables such as carrots, celery, green, red and yellow peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber and mushrooms. Or your can precook items, like hard boiled eggs, fried Chicken, potatoe salad, or anything else that you come up with.
Bring wine to drink if you enjoy that. There are even very nice plastic glasses that can be used as wine glasses if you are looking for a formal affect. Sparkling water is good as well. For other choices, bring iced herbal teas, juice or homemade lemonade.
Pack something sweet to eat for dessert. If you are carrying a cooler, pack in some cheesecake or fruit and chocolate to dip it in. Chocolate covered strawberries are wonderfully delicious as well as homemade cookies or bars.
Depending on your destination, you may hike to the picnic site or go hiking afterwards. You might take along the dogs and play some Frisbee with them or with each other. You might take along cards and play a few rounds of gin rummy or maybe you just curl up on the blanket and enjoy a wonderful conversation.
Here are a few ideas on where to go. You don’t need to go very far when packing a picnic, a shady area of your back yard can be just as fun. If not your back yard, maybe a friend or neighbor has a beautiful yard, field or forest to explore, but ask first. How about a stroll down to your local neighborhood park and find a secluded, quiet corner to spread a blanket. It may be a little busier and noisier but is still enjoyable. It may require a short drive to a state or national park, but you’ll find larger parks and beautiful sights. Some parks may charge an entrance fee and have rules on food and beverages so make sure to check before driving there. A beach is one of the most loved places for a picnic. Find the nearest beach, enjoy sun bathing, playing and walking in the sand, and swimming in the cool waters
Hiking in the woods, forests or mountains is my idea of the best place for a picnic lunch. It is adventurous as well as peaceful.  Or you can relax the whole day in the beautiful greenery of a University Campuses or Municipal Buildings which make wonderful landscaped places for a picnic and often have free access. Local wildlife reserves make a lovely choice for a picnic. You can throw the wildlife your breadcrumbs.  Ski Lodges in summer have no long lift lines which make ski hills a wonderful summer option. Many ski hills are open for hiking and biking, providing many ideal picnic opportunities and scenic views. Whether you need to rent a small boat or pay a ferry fare, getting out on the open water is a great way to spend an afternoon with a packed lunch and well worth the expense.
Don’t forget to wear bug spray and sunscreen wherever your destination is and bring along a camera so you can capture the memories for the future. Don’t forget the picnic basket, cooler, tablecloth, folding chairs, and an old blanket or two. Napkins, paper plates, cups, and utensils are a must and make sure to bring the appropriate accessories and condiments for the food you’ll be serving. Zip lock bags are helpful for cleanup and food storage. Wet wipes are helpful for hand washing and cleanup. Music is always important as well as candles, they go everywhere. Have a wonderful summer outdoors! Cheers.