When was the last time you gathered the family, threw down a blanket, and enjoyed a meal together in the warm sun? A picnic is the perfect springtime activity, but the planning and food prep can make it seem like more hassle than it’s worth. The truth is, however, that picnics do not have to be complicated. Here are four tips for planning easy family picnics. Pick the perfect picnic spot. When choosing a location for your picnic, think about how your family would like to spend the day. A park with open fields and playground equipment keeps kids entertained between bites, but a park isn’t the only option. The beach, a local lake, or a mountain picnic area are all fantastic for a family picnic. Just remember bug spray and sunscreen and find a shady spot on hot days. Do not overthink the menu. Picnics are all about the food, but that does not mean you have to fuss over the menu. Keep things simple, and choose items that can withstand time outside the cooler. Easy-
to-eat options like sandwiches, fruit, and finger foods are tasty and quick to prepare. Add variety with veggies and hummus or cheese and crackers. For an extra treat, grab premade cookies or brownies. Lemonade, juice, and fruit- infused water are refreshing options and keep everyone hydrated without the caffeine. Bring an insulated cooler for drinks and food, and do not forget wet wipes for easy cleanup. Create a cozy, kid-friendly setup. The picnic blanket is a great start, but you can take things up a notch with a few extras. Plush blankets, throw pillows, and lawn chairs offer comfortable sitting and lounging options. Pack entertainment as well; outdoor games, like Frisbee and ring toss, and a portable speaker to add to the fun. Do not forget — it is about family! Family outings should not be stressful; the best ones are sometimes the simplest. Instead of worrying about perfect details, focus on spending time together outdoors, relaxing, and enjoying good food and even better company.
Spring Family Picnics Made Easy
A Recipe for Renovation Tips for a Well-Planned Kitchen Upgrade
A great kitchen is the secret ingredient to the perfect home-cooked meal, but it might be the ideal time for a remodel if yours feels a little bland. Whether your cabinets are stuck in the past or your kitchen decor is beyond its best-by date, a kitchen upgrade can take you from groans to gourmet. But before you start whisking up big plans, it is essential to devise a solid strategy to keep your project from boiling over. Let us get cooking! Researching the Recipe Whether you want to handle most of the project yourself or hire professionals, it is essential to do your research. Decide what aesthetic or specific features you want to focus on so you can provide examples to contractors or start getting inspiration online. If hiring a professional, look at their portfolio to see if their qualifications match your kitchen goals. Get several quotes
to compare and find the right team for your remodel — or do it yourself. Planning With a Fully Baked Budget A kitchen remodel can be costly, with an estimated average cost of about $25,000. To create a perfectly baked budget, keep in mind the size of the space, your desired materials, and how drastically you want to change the layout. If you plan to remove walls or install new flooring, you must increase your budget. You can keep your costs down by tackling many of the tasks DIY-style with budget- friendly materials. Carefully consider big purchases, like new appliances or an island, but don’t forget to calculate for the little things, like nails and hardware. Prepping the Perfect Plan Once you know your goals and budget, create a project timeline and plan. Choose
the cabinets, appliances, decor, and other items you want, as well as backup options, so the project stays on track if a product is delayed. Record different measurements in your kitchen, like counter heights, so you have that information handy. If you are making structural changes like plumbing or electrical, contact your local municipality to apply for permits.
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
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