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Showing posts with label picnic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label picnic. Show all posts

Friday, August 6, 2010

Pack a Quick Picnic


Pack a Quick Picnic!  I dare you to say that fast 3 times!  We usually have about 3 picnics a week during the summer.  I used to fret and stress about packing a picnic every time we ventured outside.  Lately,  I have come up with some tips to make those outside trips easy and nutritious!  Join us!




1. Find the right carrier.  There are a thousand picnic bags out there.  For day trips to the lake, park or zoo I bring my collapsible picnic basket.  It is light and keeps everything  nice and cool.  I have seen many versions.  I got mine for $10.00 at the local drug store. 




It is all about options.


2. Include the right ingredients.   Every Sunday night I take 15 minutes to chop up all the fruits and vegetables.  I try to prepare as much as possible to last 3 days.   I don't want my kids constantly eating unhealthy food.  I have learned that if I offer them a variety then they will eat more healthy food.  My staples include, grape tomatoes, celery, cucumber wedges, mini carrots, cauliflower and broccoli.  With some ranch dip these are difficult to resist.  I also include some pepperoni sticks.  Don't forget the crackers and bread.  I usually include a variety of these in small portions.  

I use containers with removable sections.  I use the sections as bowls for the kids.
3. No ice packs please.  I use our water bottles instead.  Their bottles are filled with ice cubes and put inside of the picnic basket to keep everything nice and cold.  I also bring along a portable jug with water.  This saves some space in the cooler.  Sometimes I pack a bunch of frozen juice boxes that turn into slushies.  It is a cool welcomed treat!



With these simple picnic tips you are sure to picnic more and panic less.  

What is your quick picnic tip?