Summer’s still here, though that’s been debated of late.
Down in the depths of the Southern Hemisphere, that is.
Yes, I know it’s not the most profound statement to make on this blog. Though we usually sing out quite loudly, even from rooftops, most years the month changes from December to January, then to February. As temperatures on land start to rise rapidly. The weather report is more reliable, and the sea is far more inviting and warm, with most of that nasty spring wind having died out.
Though don’t quote me on this, it is New Zealand after all.
So what’s it all about?
With summer comes the purchasing of seasonal treats, not usually enjoyed during winter or spring. Ice cream is what I am referring to. Apart from this delectable licking blob on a cone, you will need a supply of more reliable, robust foods. If needed, you can fill your basket with healthy foods to fuel you as you head out to enjoy the great outdoors. For example, if there is no beach, there will be a park or maybe your own backyard.
Ideally, picnic food should be tasty and filling enough to support body surfing in the waves, beach cricket on the sand, or playing “tag” in the backyard. Hopefully, food can be eaten without a plate or cutlery.
Should the ham croissant/sandwich or a slice of the cake stay in one piece when running? Why? There is always a gust of wind that accompanies a picnic. One that evidently whisks an item off the blanket. Especially Aunt Daisy’s hat.
It’s picnic season. We all love picnics, don’t we?
If history is anything to go by. Many of our cultures have enjoyed picnics for centuries. The earliest in England were medieval hunting feasts of assorted baked meats, pickles, and pastries, consumed with passion before the hunt. Of course, it was no picnic for the deer that were savoured by the victorious hunters.
Throughout our years of travel, we enjoyed picnics with many of them in the UK, mainly when the sun was shining, during a heatwave in Italy, and during more reasonable winters in Spain. It has even been known for us to have a few in a hotel room or two on wet and windy days.
A picnic is a celebration of sorts.
To celebrate food in the great outdoors.
From a loaf of daily bread to the occasional decadence.
A picnic is a go-to place for tasty eats, sweets, and treats.
Life is not meant for ten types of ho-hum food
Same-old, same-old or cream with everything.
Life is made for adventure and inspiration.
Moments of “WoW” and wonder.
Glimpses of genius
Life’s food is designed to be devoured
Bite by bite, of a chocolately taste.
Check out the following websites, where you will find a few sweet and savoury picnic ideas to create and pack into the picnic hamper. Then, with said hamper, set off in your car and head off to some inviting shady oasis. If in New Zealand, then having your picnic under a Pohutakawa tree by the sea would be idyllic on a hot summer’s day.
Life at No. 22 