Let’s Go On A Picnic!
When I was a kid, I loved watching Yogi Bear and Boo Boo. Yogi’s penchant for pic-a-nic baskets was a source of entertainment to me and countless others. Yogi and Boo Boo’s antics also made picnics and spending time outside look like too much fun to pass up. So, I didn’t.
I ate countless lunches and snacks outside either in or under my favorite tree—a mimosa from which all sorts of my imaginings came to life. I also ate more bologna or peanut butter sandwiches and taco flavored Doritos under a huge tree in my best friend, Kim’s back yard.
Yep, those picnics were great, but they weren’t the only ones I enjoyed. Under the gigantic oak tree in our back yard (the one from which my tire swing hung and the one with my grandpa’s hammock parked underneath), a picnic table sat waiting for the next family meal. Or in some cases, just watermelon picked right out of our garden. Or, on special occasions, homemade ice cream and cake.
Those family picnics often took place more out of necessity, so to speak. We didn’t have air conditioning, so eating outside under the shade of that big tree was a lot cooler than staying in the house where the heat of the stove and/or oven made it even hotter inside than normal. Necessary or not, I loved those picnics. I never failed to think of them as a treat or special occasion of sorts.
People don’t do much of that anymore. They prefer to stay inside where it’s cool and let the distractions of the television, phones, and other such things distract them from enjoying each other’s company. This really needs to change. We are already near the point of no return when it comes to being a society of non-talkers. People skills are becoming as antiquated as Depression glass and rotary telephones. You know I’m right. But here’s something else you need to know: THE SENIORS IN YOUR LIFE ARE THE ONES BEST SUITED TO PUT THESE CHANGES IN MOTION.
It’s true—those who have first-hand knowledge of how much fun family picnics can be, need to take the proverbial bull by the horns and get your family outside for some good ole’ picnic food, family time, and fun. This is also the perfect time to start since July is National Picnic Month.
In case you have forgotten how to plan and host a picnic, here are a few suggestions for making it a memorable family event (of the good kind).
*Pick a spot with some shade, set a date and time, and invite your kids and grandkids to enjoy some good ole’ fried chicken, tater salad, watermelon, baked beans, and anything else your family loves to eat. Oh, and don’t forget the chocolate chip cookies.
*Keep it simple—paper plates and napkins, plastic forks and spoons, disposable cups, or bottled water, tea, and juice boxes. An extra-large easy to wash tablecloth or blanket is a must, too.
*Picnic tables for the adults and a big blanket on the ground for the kids.
*Use the time together to tell stories about the past, teach the kids to play games like ‘red rover’, ‘mother may I’, and to fly a kite or play croquet. Bubbles and chalk for the littlest ones will be a welcome source of fun, too.
*Consider playing a rousing game of family trivia. That’s always good for lots of laughs.
*Tell your young people about their ancestors who served in the military—the men (and women) they come from—to ensure America remains a nation of freedom and liberty.
*Make sure you have plenty of wet wipes or wet washcloths for hands and faces.
*Take plenty of pictures or designate someone in the group to do so.
*Trash bags for the trash so you don’t leave a mess are an absolute must.
*End your time together by making plans for the next picnic and by telling everyone how much you love them.
Picnics in July…September…May…or October. As long as the weather is right, there is never a wrong time to enjoy time with loved ones under the shade of a tree with a plate full of goodies, and good conversation.
Guest post By Darla Noble
The views expressed by the author may not reflect the views of Age Safe America, LLC. The content here should not be taken as medical, legal or financial advice. The content here is for informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your own healthcare, legal or financial professional with any questions.