(This is a guest post by one of our readers)
As the cold days of winter begin to recede into the past, it is time to enjoy the balmy days of early spring with your children. Down here in Texas spring comes early, which means we get to bask in the warm sun while Northern parts of the country are still plastered in snow.
While we pay the price for this with incredibly hot summers, for now it is time to get outside and take advantage! One great spring activity is a nice picnic in the countryside; and the perfect time for a picnic in Texas is late March.
Bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas, and beginning in late March they bloom all over. Many families love to pose for photos sitting amongst the Bluebonnets on the side of the highway, but they make a great picnic location also!
Laying down a blanket in an area covered with these beautiful blue flowers makes for an absolutely breathtaking dining area. It may not have the finesse or elegance of a meal at home, but the appeal of a picnic is breaking your bread with your family whilst surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors.
Packing food for a picnic is another fun activity. You can either throw something very simple together – like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches – or spend some together time with the kids preparing something a little nicer.
My personal favorite for a picnic is a delicious curried egg salad. As a child my family used to make this a staple on these outings, and I have carried the tradition over as an adult. Another great option is chilled fruits – biting into an ice cold peach while relaxing in the outdoor son a warm spring day is a priceless joy.
A good loaf of bread, preferably fresh baked, is also another great choice for a picnic. Combined with some good cheese and you have a very versatile and tasty treat. Many families also like to throw in some lunch meats and lettuce. You can make a mighty fine sandwich with this list of ingredients.
Also great for a picnic amongst the bluebonnets are ice cold drinks. You picnicking experience will be much more enjoyable if everyone involved is kept dehydrated and cool by their own cold juice boxes, sodas or bottled waters.
While it is very possible to pack a picnic basket and enjoy a good meal, many people prefer their food and drinks refrigerated. To that end either a cooler or a small fridge freezer for the car can be very useful if you happen to own one.
Refrigeration is definitely optional if you select the right foods however. Don’t let a lack of expensive equipment prevent you from getting out and enjoying a beautiful picnic with the kids!
