Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1378714
42 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | JUNE 2021 | Happy Cookers Yahooooooo! Most of us have been vaccinated. Most of us don't have to wear masks outside! So let's go outside. In this month's video we will focus on fun picnic ideas such as a Seaside Picnic and a Winnie the Pooh picnic. Whether you are taking your grandchildren to the backyard or yourself to the beach just use your imagination and negotiation skills. Thinking about health limitations and lugging stuff to the beach, I recently asked for permission to use the communal balcony for two hours for a birthday party. Due to COVID, we were limited to six people. Away I went, looking for ingredients that would be as good as if I cooked them. Shells, fish netting, coral shaped utensils, French bakery birthday cake topped with fruit and cream, beach designed lollipops, ocean designed tea towels as napkins, were on my scavenger hunt list. With those size limitations, I met with a local deli manager in Carlsbad (Pronto Market). She agreed to combine ingredients from three different catering platters; she deconstructed an amazing Italian salad with all the ingredients packaged separately so I could keep them fresh and assemble at the table. I even used clean bath towels as table loths. It was amazing. You don't have to cook to organize an amazing foodie event! Here are some ideas to help the feast stay fantastic. • If away from home, get recommendations on well- priced caterers and bakeries. • Before setting the table, spray the tablecloth, seating, and ground under the area with bug spray. • Get a portable wagon and ice chest with wheels to carry table and food to the location. • Avoid mayonnaise or keep those ingredients chilled until time to eat. • Thank everyone a lot who helped make it possible. You may need their help later. • Use a big blanket for plenty of coverage or even a painter's drop cloth. • Take a few games or things to entertain guests and children after eating. We are still hoping that Happy Cookers can resume meetings on the fourth Friday of July in the South Clubhouse at 11 am. Look for announcements to confirm. ~ Wendy Ditchfield Enjoying a beautiful beach-themed lunch in Carlsbad