Basic HTML Version
summer
2012
maskmatters.org
87
A
s most parents know, summer
is all about spending precious
time with the kids. From
adventurous camping trips to lazy days
on the beach, family fun is in full swing.
But after the kids have finally called
it a day and they’re tucked away in bed,
who says the fun has to be over? This is the
perfect time for you and your significant
other to enjoy your own private getaway.
This summer, take advantage of clear
night skies filled with the glow of bright stars
by planning an intimate starlight picnic. Fill
a basket with delicious nosh, chilled drinks
and a cozy basket, and enjoy reconnecting
with the one you love. Here are some tips:
Setting the Stage
Find the perfect spot at a nearby park, open
space or even your own backyard.Then set
the mood by creating a candlelit walkway that
leads to your picnic spot. Fill some sturdy
metal pails with sand, then place a larger
pillar candle in each one. Groups of candles
strategically placed around your spot not only
make it romantic, but also give you ample
lighting to see your food—and each other!
While a blanket is perfect for gazing
up at the stars, dewy grass may put a
damper on things. Consider a small
table and chair set that can be easily
assembled and broken down.Whatever
you decide, bring extra blankets in case the
temperature drops as the night wears on.
When it comes to arranging your
spread, placing food and utensils early
will prevent you from digging around in
the dark later on. It also helps to bring
smaller, separate coolers, rather than one
with everything thrown together inside.
To set the mood even further, bring
a portable music player to play your
favorite love songs. Or, to make your
picnic under the stars truly special,
hire a musician to serenade you.
On the Menu
When packing your picnic basket, focus
on foods that rely on natural flavors and
don’t need to be heated at the last minute.
In fact, a fresh salad is a wonderful way to
combine summer flavors. Consider a classic,
simple Caprese salad with sliced tomatoes,
fresh mozzarella, olive oil and fresh basil.
Finger foods also make for great picnic
fare, such as roll-ups and pinwheels. Small
tortillas filled with fresh asparagus, slices
of ham and smoked provolone cheese is
one delicious idea. Or spread out a large
tortilla and coat with a mixture of cream
it’s a date!
empower
cheese, flaked salmon, chives and chopped
cucumbers. Roll them tightly in plastic and
refrigerate for at least an hour.Then cut them
into discs and lay out on a tray for serving.
You can also elevate simple sandwiches
by using such condiments as Dijon
mustard, pesto or tapenade. Instead of
standard cold cuts, bring grilled Portobello
mushrooms, prosciutto crudo, smoked
salmon and roast turkey breast. Top your
sandwiches with Brie, salty Gruyere or
tangy goat cheese, and skip iceberg lettuce
in favor of spinach, watercress or arugula.
For color, flavor and ease of preparation,
it’s hard to beat fruit. Also bring a good loaf
of bread served with a high-quality olive
oil and, of course, don’t forget the wine.
Star Struck
Put the perfect end to your evening by
taking in a little stargazing. For best
results, choose a moonless night for your
picnic and check stargazing websites to
find best dates and viewing locations
for upcoming meteor showers.
But for the ultimate stargazing
experience, surprise your significant
other with a star named after them.
There are a number of star registry and
adopt-a-star services available online.
Starlight
Picnic
story // michelle Jacoby
86
maskmatters.org
sUMMER
2012
2012 4th annual
MASKer Aide Gala
Save the date
to Join
(Mothers Awareness on School-age Kids)
for a special evening under the stars at its
4th Annual MASKer Aide Gala
.
SatURdaY
oct. 6, 2012
To learn more about sponsorship packages
of the 4th Annual MASKer Aide Gala,
contact gala@maskmatters.org.