How to . . . Picnic

from P&G Everyday Solution: Baby and Family
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PICNICS MADE EASY

Eating outside is one of summer's greatest pleasures. Try these tips for planning the ideal picnic for two — or 20 — without stressing over the details.
The Perfect Pair
Find a babysitter and take two hours to reconnect with your husband.
Location: Think quiet and romantic. Whether it's the backyard or a secluded corner of the local park, you want a peaceful spot where you can focus on each other.
Menu: The real point is the company, so keep the food simple — yet elegant — with a few high-quality items. Think ripe strawberries or grapes, crusty French bread, fine cheese, dark chocolate and a bottle of wine. Want something more substantial? Buy pre-made pasta salads or gourmet sandwiches at the local deli.
Packing: Use a personal-size cooler to keep the fruit and perishables cold. Cut up the cheese and bread before you leave and pack these delicate items in hard plastic containers so they won't get crushed. Don't forget these other essentials: a large blanket, corkscrew, napkins, plates, glasses, silverware, sunscreen, insect repellant and water. Throw in a plastic tablecloth to stick under your blanket in case the ground is wet.
Extras: Make the experience a little more special with cloth napkins and real wine glasses. Wrap each glass in a napkin and carefully place them in a hard plastic container. Tuck a romantic note in your significant other's glass for a memorable touch.
Crowd ControlGather family, friends, neighbors or the Little League team for fun in the sun.
Location: Once you pass five or six guests, it's a good idea to make a reservation. Find a centrally located park and look into picnic areas with shelter houses — lifesavers in case it rains. These are usually no or low cost and many come with a simple grill in addition to all those picnic tables. Look for a spot near a playground to help keep the kids entertained.
Menu: Divide and conquer. For large groups, potluck is the easiest way to go. Assign one or two people to each of these categories: main dishes, side dishes, appetizers, beverages, snacks and desserts. Compare notes to make sure there's not too much overlap. Then let each person decide whether to cook or pick something up at the market. Remind everyone to keep perishables cold until it's time to eat.
Packing: Instead of food, ask people traveling the farthest to bring paper plates, napkins, plastic silverware, tablecloths and plastic cups. Put yourself in charge of cleanup supplies, including trash bags and several rolls of paper towels, such as Bounty®. Plus, throw a few extra snacks in your bag — maybe a few cans of Pringles® Snack Stacks® — for good measure. Other must-haves: condiments, insect repellant, sunblock, a first-aid kit, water, a flashlight, serving spoons and grilling supplies.
Extras: Whether it's a dusty croquet set or a neon Frisbee®, grab some sports equipment from the basement or garage. A deck of cards and portable radio can also keep the fun going long after the hot dogs are gone. If you plan to continue the gathering after dark, bring along a camping lantern or candles.