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If you aren’t in a place where the weather is warm, sunny and lovely, dreary skies don’t have to keep you from entertaining.

One way to chase away the winter blues is to put together an indoor picnic. This is awesome for a couple, great fun for kids and you can turn it into a really cool party for friends.

Think about all the elements that make a picnic fun – and then bring it indoors!

Start with your typical picnic food. Maybe it is barbecued burgers and hot dogs, grilled steaks or fried chicken. Whatever is your barbecue specialty – bring it on!

Use a bright cheery cloth to cover your table or buffet area. Add in some fun wicker baskets to hold serving bowls, use bright flowers for accents and make sure the lighting is strong.

If you have an indoor fireplace, spread some blankets or quilts in front of it as a welcome seating area for guests. If your fireplace is open, you can even plan to roast a few marshmallows to amp up the fun factor.

Have youngsters play some fun indoor-friendly games like “Who’s got the Button” or “Mother May I.”

If the party is all adults, have everyone share their best or worst picnic experience. This is sure to bring many laughs and smiles.

Most of all, remember to have fun!

Happy Entertaining

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picnicSummer is the perfect time to grab a blanket, pack some food and eat in the great outdoors. If you haven’t gone on a picnic in a while, think about inviting a few friends or family members to join you for a casual meal. The key ingredient should be fun.

The Perfect Spot
Pick your picnic spot strategically. Look for an area in the shade, away from foot traffic. If you have children along, make sure there are no hazards nearby: busy roads, deep water, or cliffs. Be realistic about what you can carry to the picnic spot.

The Perfect Seat
Lounging on a blanket is all fine and dandy unless the ground is wet. Bring along a plastic tarp to put underneath the blanket. My favorite picnic blanket is a comforter that is thick and soft and just meant for lazy afternoons out in the sun.

The Perfect Food
Keep the food simple and opt for no-fuss picnic fare like crusty bread, cheese and fruit. Add something sweet for a treat like cookies, brownies or slices of pie. Think about foods that are easy to transport and keep cold. Wraps and sandwiches are yummy, simple to make and easy to pack. Before you fill the cooler, make sure everything is thoroughly chilled. Take plenty of ice and remember food should not set out more than an hour in heat that is 85 degrees or higher. Also take plenty of beverages to stay hydrated.

The Essentials
Picnic basket or cooler
Bottled water (freeze overnight and use as an ice pack)
Outdoor dinnerware
Flatware or plastic silverware
Napkins
Glassware
Cutting Board
Sharp Knife
Bottle opener
Tablecloth, blanket
Decorative centerpiece (hurricane candles, a cup of freshly plucked wildflowers, a beautiful dessert)
Sunscreen
Bug spray or citronella candles
Wet-wipes
Paper towels
Hand sanitizer
Trash bags
Games (Frisbees and balls for the kids, badminton for adults)

If you have any fun picnic ideas to share, please post them here.
Enjoy your summer entertaining and may all your picnics be ant-free!

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