Picnic Time -

'Picnic'. A word shrouded in mystery.

Although the association of outdoor eating and the picnic is not yet 200 years old, 

records of meals eaten outside go back centuries. In those days al fresco eating

 wasn't necessarily organized with pleasure in mind. The majority of cases were

 travelers wending their way over rough roads and dirt tracks, carrying provisions

 with them, and there was no choice but to eat outdoors in all types of weather.

I shared my picnic basket thrift shop find before.

(This week we had to search for it in the attic and found it hidden behind boxes - we

hadn't used it in a while).

Some years back I was thrilled to find the woven basket sitting on a shelf, empty, 

but in great condition, no stains or rips in the dark green check lining fabric, 

closure and handles all in great shape.

I actually had the nerve to ask if they could discount the price as there were

 no picnic accessories included - they took $1 off and I purchased happily

 for just $6.99 - a real bargain!

As mentioned in my previous post, I'm planning a simple picnic this 

weekend. . . . . . . when hopefully it will cool off a bit.  Driving out into the

 countryside will be enjoyable as we haven't really been anywhere other than

 grocery shopping for so long. 

Spreading a blanket on the grass and popping open a nice chilled rosé

 while nibbling tasty morsels is a much needed summertime adventure, 

something to make life a little more normal.

I gussied the basket up a bit, added some of my pretty antique china and 

serving utensils before taking photos to share with you. 

Of course I will use more utilitarian accouterments for the real picnic.

One can also plan a kind of makeshift 'picnic' at home if traveling is not possible.

We often eat al fresco no matter the weather - sitting in the gazebo in the back garden.

There are no sweeping vistas, rippling streams, ponds, lakes or rivers. . . . . . 

. . . . . just bird baths, and a little tinkling fountain. 

Massive old trees overhead, with patches of blue sky just visible here and there, 

offer cooling shade.

The overhead fan turns silently, stirring the humid southern air.

Now and then a breeze sweeps through and rustles the tablecloth, lifts a napkin. 

 The birds sing loudly, take a bath, then preen on a branch.

Yes, come to think of it, perhaps the home picnic is one of the most enjoyable.

Now appears this weekend will still be very hot. I may just get the basket out

 and pack a picnic to enjoy right here in the gazebo under the shady trees!

Wishing you all a good weekend - even though it feels

 like all the days now run into each other. . . . . . week

 or weekend, there's not much difference, is there?