Plan the perfect picnic!

This summer, escape from the daily grind with a stress-free outdoor picnic. Whether on the beach, at the park, or just in your own backyard, a picnic brings family and friends together for a relaxing and fun experience. With a little bit of extra preparation and a few helpful tips, you can easily plan a perfect picnic in no time. Taste is everything. Assorted deli meats, fresh breads, seasonal fruits, homemade lemonade or iced teas, and of course some great tasting cheeses, like Finlandia, can make for a delicious time.

Keep it fresh. No one likes a soggy sandwich. Pack your meats, veggies, condiments, and dairy products in extra containers or a cooler to maintain their freshness.

Simplify. Don't stress over what to bring. Consider buying a pre-made picnic kit that already includes everything you need.

Prepare for the worst. Nothing ruins a picnic like pesky insects or rain clouds. Make sure to bring along an umbrella, insect repellent and sunscreen.

Relax. Throw down a comfy blanket, shut off the cell phone, toss the Frisbee around, and enjoy the day!

Fun family adventures.

Pick your favorite family outings, plot them on your calendar, and make a date for family fun.

Animal friendly - Visit the zoo. Pick out your favorite animals. Have a photo contest. Everyone gets a disposable camera and starts shooting. Whoever takes the most unusual photo of their favorite animal wins.

Hit the open road - Take a scenic drive in the country. Bring along a picnic lunch and spread out at a park you've never been to. Or, try stopping at a roadside diner or local out of the way restaurant and experience a place you've never tried before.

Garden Gathering – Plant a garden together. Flowers or vegetables can be great fun to plant and watch as they grow. Take a trip to the nearest garden center. Have everyone pick out his or her favorite plant, vegetable or seed packet. Stir up some fresh lemonade and iced tea ... and get planting.

Pedal to the metal – Hop on your bikes. Explore neighborhoods you've never been to or enjoy a winding park path. Pack a backpack with sandwiches, snacks and beverages.

Dine around the world - Plan an international menu. Each person in the family picks one night a month to prepare a meal from the country of their choice. How about tacos from Mexico? Fish and Chips from England? Lo Mein from China? Make it fun AND educational; research interesting information and little known facts about that country and share them during dinner with everyone at the table during.