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Picnics: The Outdoor Feast

In Florida, as in much of the Southern States, the idea of eating outdoors is a year-round option. Everybody loves a picnic, whether it is out at the beach, at the park or just in the back yard. but how do you take a simple picnic and transform it into an al fresco meal to remember? It's all in the details

The most important thing is the food. Keep the menu light and easy. Outdoors is not the place for a heavy meal. Also, you want to make sure that any food can be eaily prepared either at the site, or can be kept fresh for a long time. Avoid dishes that tend to spoil quickly in the heat.

If your outdoor soiree is listening to the orchestra while the fireworks light up the sky, then simply having a tote with a couple of bottles of wine, some crakers and cheese might just do nicely. For larger parties, or where grilling might be taking place, be sure that the food preparation and distribution is in a single area. Always make sure your guests have plenty of fluids to drink. Lemonade and mint iced tea for a summer garden party, buckets of icy beer for a clambake on the beach. Make your guests comfortable. Keeping age and ability in mind, provide blankets and cushions or portable tables and chairs. Look into folding camp chairs at stores such as REI.com.

There is always the question as to how the meal will be served. If your get together is in the back yard, then by all means, break out the silver and china and take it outside. Add in candles and some decorations as well. But if you are on the beach or at the park, you might want to consider disposable plates. And by disposable plates I do not mean paper plates that sell 100 for a dollar. There are many brands of serveware that look expensive, but really aren't. Also, always go with linen napkins, not paper. It really adds a touch of elegance. If you are in a public area, always remember that not everyone likes your music selections. Keep the music as a compliment to the picnic. This is not a club.

The next question is of course, where and when the picnic will take place. Back yard affaires allow you to have more control over the mood and decorating of the area, but elegant picnics can be done in a public setting. Just be sure to scout the area out ahead of time to find a spot that is quiet or somewhat sheltered but is close enough to vehicles to avoid having your guest take a hike. Prepare for being outdoors. Be sure to carry along sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. Find a spot for the table with the right mix of sun and shade, sheltered from the wind if possible. Create shade in open areas by setting up umbrellas, pitching open-walled tents or building makeshift "forts" of blankets strung between chairs or trees. If the meal carries over into the early evening, be sure that you have plenty of lights.

The most important thing though is to enjoy the time with your friends. A good meal and laughter with good friends are two of the most important things one can have in their lives. So enjoy!