Summertime and the living is easy

Hey there, bookworms, foodies and history lovers!

Summer is in full swing and it's time to enjoy the outdoors. As a kid, summer meant freedom from school and homework, but it also brought the brutal Phoenix heat. But even with the heat, I have fond memories of summer filled with the sound of cicadas, the ice cream truck, the crack of a bat hitting a softball, and the splash of the pool. I can still smell the chlorine and the burgers grilling in our yard or a neighbor's. We used to stay up late playing kick in the can in the streets and swim in the warm water in the evenings.

Now, as a parent and grandparent, I've had the pleasure of creating new summer memories with my kids and grandkids. We love to plan picnics with a theme, like food from a different country or from a book we've been reading.

Whether you're planning a picnic at home or taking it on the road, I've got some great resources for you at BookladyCooks.com. Click here to check out our collection of summer cookbooks and gear to help you make memories and create stories of your own.

 

Fun Food and Travel Suggestions for Summer

Summer picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories with family and friends. Here are some fun food and travel suggestions to make your next picnic even more special:

Food:

• Theme your picnic around a country, a culture or a book. This could
  
  involve packing traditional dishes from that country or region, as well as decorating your picnic blanket and basket in a festive way.
• Make your own picnic snacks. This is a great way to save money and control the ingredients in your food. There are many easy and delicious picnic snacks that you can make at home, such as sandwiches, wraps, salads, and fruit skewers.
• Include some fun and festive drinks. In addition to water and juice, you could also pack some sparkling water, lemonade, or iced tea. For adults, you could include some wine or beer or some of the amazing cocktails in our cookbooks.
• Don't forget the dessert! Pack some cookies, brownies, or other sweet treats to enjoy after your meal.

Travel:

• Find a scenic picnic spot. There are many beautiful places to have a picnic, such as parks, beaches, and hiking trails. Do some research to find a spot that is both scenic and accessible.
• Plan your picnic around an activity. If you're looking for something to do after you eat, you could plan your picnic around an activity, such as hiking, swimming, or biking.
• Make a day of it. If you have the time, you could pack a lunch and spend the entire day picnicking. This is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
• Picnic inside. Don’t let the weather stop you from enjoying a special celebration! Set the scene inside for uncooperative weather.
• Make the most of your driving (or boating) time. Instead of fast food, pack a picnic to enjoy at a rest stop along the way. 

Here are some additional tips for planning a fun and successful summer picnic:

• 
  Pack your food in a sturdy container. This will help to keep your food fresh and protected from the elements.
• Bring a blanket or tablecloth to sit on. This will help to keep you comfortable and clean.
• Don't forget the sunscreen and bug spray. This is especially important if you're picnicking in a wooded area.
• Have fun! Picnics are a great way to relax and enjoy the company of your family and friends.

Leave no trace. Make it a game to see if you can pack a picnic with as few single-use and disposable products as possible. Challenge your group to see how clean they can leave your picnic site. 

So, grab a blanket, pack a basket, and head outdoors to enjoy the summer!