Company Picnic

 There are a lot of reasons to have a company picnic.

They build company morale.
They show appreciation for employees and their efforts.
They show commitment to employees and their families.
They strengthen teamwork.

But the Number 1 reason to have a company picnic is to have fun!

Of course, having all that fun requires hard work but if you follow a few simple suggestions your picnic will be worth the effort.

 Get Organized

 Start with a notebook divided into sections for Budget, Location, Raffle Items, Party Favors, Food and Beverages, Invitations, Activities, and Entertainment. For even the smallest picnic you'll have to answer questions in each of these areas and the notebook helps you keep everything you need in one place.

Start with your budget. The company will give you limited dollars to spend and that budget will dictate most of your decisions. Next figure out how many people will attend. For company picnics we usually figure 80% of the people invited will show. Multiply that number by 2 and a half to account for spouses and kids and you should have a number to work with that makes sense.

Some companies augment their budget by charging employees a small fee for the event. Sounds gauche but if you have it at an amusement park or a water park it could be warranted and it will help prevent people inviting the extended families and all their friends.

 Pick a location

 Try to find a reserved spot for your group. Who wants to police other groups and compete over ball fields or horseshoe pits? Make sure you have enough room for your group. It's a picnic so people will want room to move and kids will want to explore and run all over. Try to find a spot that offers alternatives for activities. You'll probably want a ball field and pits for sure but you'll also find places that have hiking trails or paddleboats. Of course you'll need a pavilion just in case it rains.

Many companies pick amusement parks and they can be a blast. It is hard to get the group all together though and you won't have much in the way of group activities. These parks are probably a better solution for larger companies that would be hard pressed to find a park setting large enough for thousands of people.

 Invitations, Agendas, Raffles, and Food

 Try to send your invitations out at least 30 days before the event. Summertime is busy for everyone so get on people's calendar as soon as possible. Company picnics are fun, so use an invitation that screams celebration. Your employees will save the wrapper and eat the candy…and they certainly won't forget the invite! Ask for an RSVP. It will help with your planning.

Prepare an agenda for the day so people know where to be. You don't want to cook food all day so let people know you are serving from 3-5 and the softball game is at 2, and the raffle at 6, etc.  for help with a package that ties your invitation, RSVP, candy bars and decorations is a great theme for your picnic!

Raffles are a great way to spark interest in the picnic. Many of our clients ask for donations from other companies. It takes time to solicit raffle prizes and it should be the job of a committee not a single person! Try to have one great grand prize. It creates excitement and of course you can't win if you're not present at the picnic. Another great thing about raffles is they force everyone to get together for at least part of the day. Picnics tend to spread out and it's nice to have everyone in a central place

Food is important!! Your picnic can be catered, potluck, or have your boss cook hotdogs and burgers on the grill. Remember your budget will dictate what you can or can't do. Whatever the final decision let your employees know what to expect. You'll find people can be very accommodating as long as they know what's up in advance. Don't forget to make the alcohol policy known.

Decorations and Party Favors

 You really want to create a festive atmosphere. Picnic grounds can cover a large area so have some signage to direct your happy picnickers. You may want to have a central location to hand out favors, food or drink tickets, or even name tags. Once again, we can help you with signs or caricatures of the boss to liven up the pavilion. Or get a professionally made banner. Imprinted balloons always liven up a place and they're great fun for the kids. For party favors try water bottles with personalized labels. They're useful.

Games, Activities and Entertainment

 It's a picnic, so everyone should have tons to do! Here are a few quick ideas
Carnival Game Booths
Horseshoes
Face painters
Paddle Boats
Clowns
Caricature Artists
Softball Games
Pony rides
Football Frisbee
Sack races, egg toss, wheelbarrow races, etc for the kids.

It's a big list. Pick what works for your group and remember all kids like to win something. You'll probably want to designate someone as the games coordinator

Many are ready to be at your service Thus SHOLA TOURS  has proved to be a great helper to organise one. Try it out at the next company picnic.

10 Camping Tips for Family

Turn on the TV, and you won't be hard-pressed to find a reality show that has something to do with camping. But, you may be wondering what life in the wilderness is really like once the cameras are turned off. Are you ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the authentic world of living up close and personal with nature?

Although few things are as polished as they seem on the flat screen, camping is a popular pastime for people of all ages, all over the world. Whether they seek a test of true grit or simply a temporary escape from a fast-paced lifestyle, camping offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to live the simple life.

If you're embarking on the camping adventure of a lifetime, the following 10 tips will help guide your preparations and ensure your safety once you've wandered into the wild. Whether you're planning a staycation in your backyard or hitting the Appalachian trail, there's something here for every would-be and seasoned camper.


One of the most important camping tips is this: Always pitch camp before dark. You'll need to decide on a type of camp housing that suits your fancy, whether that's a tent, recreational vehicle (RV) or a cabin. Some adventurers go primitive and literally sleep under the stars in a hammock. If that's too bare-bones for you, then you may consider packing a tent for your outdoor adventure. Although they're probably the most basic shelters for camping, tents can be rather comfortable with the proper preparation. Ask the salesperson at the outdoor recreation store to recommend a suitable tent for your needs. These needs will determine the size, shape and quality of the tent you select. Keep in mind that with tents, bigger isn't necessarily better -- you'll have to lug it to your campsite, after all. Be sure to try your tent out at home to detect any problems so your camping trip doesn't turn into a nightmare. Bring extra tent poles just in case yours break; that's not unheard of. Keep a window or two slightly unzipped at night to reduce moisture inside the tent. Also, pack an old shower curtain (one that's slightly smaller than the size of your tent floor) to place on the ground to keep you dry in case it rains.

 1. Take Extra Precautions When Camping with Kids or Pets

Camping with kids or pets takes a lot of work, but it can be a pleasant experience. As we've learned, planning is the secret to successful camping. This carries through to camping with your children and furry friends. Be sure to have the appropriate clothing to protect your child, whether that means sun hats in the summer or warm, long-sleeved clothing he or she can wear if the outside temperature suddenly drops. Next, just like you practice a fire drill, work with your children to help them learn how to prevent getting lost and what to do if this should happen. Provide a flashlight or glowstick to each child, and review the rules several times a day to remind children what to do to stay safe.

Bringing your dog on your camping trip can make even a modest shelter feel like a home away from home. A few things you'll need to ask yourself is whether you're equipped and willing to restrain your pet should a wild or domestic animal wander by. Also, you want to be sure that your pet's vaccinations and licenses are current. Of course, you need to bring your dog's leash, and keep the pet contained at all times. You'll need to provide your dog's food in a clean bowl, as well as fresh clean water, in addition to properly cleaning up and disposing of its waste.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

We mentioned earlier in the camping tips section on clothing that cleanliness is important. The same goes for your body, no doubt. But you may be wondering how to maintain hygiene in less than ideal conditions. Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in your pocket, and always cleanse your hands before eating, drinking or putting your hands near your face. Use rubbing alcohol and cotton balls to freshen up nonsensitive areas of the body. Use a sponge, a bowl of water and biodegradable soap to take bird baths once or twice a day. Brush your teeth using purified water with toothpaste or baking soda, and follow with dental floss. Your feet will get pretty grimy while camping, so take advantage of moments near a stream to take off your shoes and soak your feet in the water for a few minutes. Steer clear of colognes, perfumes and fragrant lotions because they attract bugs.

Wrap various personal hygiene items like your washcloth, toothbrush and soap individually in aluminum foil when you're packing up to ensure that the rest of the stuff in your backpack stays dry.

3. Tote a Survival Kit

When it comes to camping, nothing could be truer than the Scout motto "Be prepared." Carrying a survival kit when you venture away from your campsite is an indispensable camping tip. So, what do you pack in this kit? For starters, you'll want to have water-purifying tablets, a water filter and a metal bowl. Then, add a survival knife, which can be used to hunt, to protect yourself and to signal for help. Not just any blade will do; it's worth investing in one from a camping or outdoor goods store.

Another must-have in your survival kit is waterproof matches stored in an airtight container. You can make waterproof matches by dipping regular ones in either nail polish or paraffin. A plastic medicine bottle or 35 millimeter film container makes a handy caddy for your waterproof matches. Keep a flashlight in your survival kit, and store extra batteries in an airtight container similar to the ones you store your matches in. Having a flare gun and a mini LED torch aren't a bad idea, either.

In addition to toting a survival kit, you should also have a small first aid kit with you. Stock bandages, wound cleanser, latex gloves and cold packs in it.

4. Dont get lost

Experienced camping enthusiasts know this camping tip, so plant it in your brain: Don't get lost. It's a major mistake campers make, but you can avoid wandering too far away from your campsite by carrying a few simple tools at all times. A compass, map and GPS device can keep you from disappearing into the land of the lost. Of course, none of these tools will do you any good if you don't know how to use them. So, take some time well in advance of your camping trip to learn how to read a map and use your compass and GPS. (Plus, by the time you get to the end of this article, you'll have even more camping tips under your belt to keep you on track.)

5. Choose a good sleeping bag



National Parks Image Gallery


A camping trip in the wilderness can help you escape from the stressors of everyday life.

The utmost camping tip having to do with sleeping bags is this: Choose one appropriate for the season. A lightweight sleeping bag will do in warmer months but in the winter you'll need one that's got a lower temperature rating. Always go with one that will keep you toasty in a lower temperature range than you actually plan to camp in, just in case the mercury drops. If you'll be sleeping in a tent, you'll want to opt for a mummy-shaped sleeping bag. This type fits closely around your feet, preserving body heat, and it's also easier to pack. In terms of materials, a sleeping bag filled with synthetic fibers will dry quicker than one stuffed with down, and it's also nonallergenic. But a goose-feather sleeping bag is easier to carry because it's lightweight.

To enhance your sleeping experience with your sleeping bag, place a pad or long cushion beneath it for a much more comfortable slumber. Instead of packing a pillow, improvise by inflating a large, heavy-duty plastic bag, and use that to cushion your head.

6. Carry food that will not spoil and water
A list of camping tips wouldn't be complete without mentioning food and water. Whether your camping trip entails mini adventures, such as hiking or canoeing, or if it just means kicking back in the RV and watching DVDs, you're going to need food. The rule of thumb is to take only what's necessary to prepare each meal. For example, if your group is small, bring two cups of quick-cook oats rather than an entire 48-serving canister of oatmeal. Use sealed plastic bags to mix food. If you're setting up camp next to your RV or car, you have the luxury of being able to use a cooler to keep perishable goods like meats from spoiling.

Making sure you have clean water is one of the most essential camping tips. Unless you have access to clean tap water or a spring you know is safe to drink from, you should carry bottled water with you. Or, you can bring packets of iodine to sanitize water you get from the backcountry or any questionable source. You can also run the cleanest water you can find through a water filter or boil it for at least 10 minutes. To keep your water cold, wrap your container in aluminum foil.


7. Leave no trace of your trail 

As you're living it up on the open range, keep this next camping tip in mind; it will help you protect and preserve nature so that you and future generations can enjoy it again and again. Leave no trace, meaning pick up after yourself to leave the ecosystem undisturbed. Clean up thoroughly after meals and secure your food high above the ground.

Although they may seem like common sense rules, you may not be entirely familiar with the principles of leaving no trace. Plan ahead and prepare to travel in smaller groups, containing most activities at least 200 feet (60.9 meters) away from streams and lakes. Travel and camp on established trails and campsites. Bury solid human waste 6 to 8 eight inches (15 to 20 centimeters) below the surface of the ground. Take baths and wash dishes 200 feet (60.9 meters) away from streams and lakes as well. Strain dishwater, disposing of large particles in proper waste receptacles and strewing the used water. Leave all artifacts and natural objects as you find them. Use established fire rings, keep campfires small, and cook on a stove. Keep your distance from wildlife, and don't feed the animals

8. Dress loose
Even if you're not fashion-conscious, planning outfits for your outdoor adventure is just as important as any other camping tip. Dress in loose layers of clean clothing. Of course, in months with colder weather, you'll wear more clothing -- such as hats, gloves, jackets and thermal underwear -- than in warmer seasons. The key is to peel off layers of clothing before you start sweating so that you stay dry. If you perspire and get your clothes damp, you won't be as comfortable as you'd like.

9. Protect your feet 

Then, there's footwear. When you're camping, you need to protect your feet. Wear closed-toe shoes that have some sort of moisture-absorbing lining. Hiking boots are ideal, and one way to prevent blisters when you're exploring trails is by rubbing a bar of soap on your heels and underneath your toes before you head out. Keep the soap with you, and if your feet become tender, apply more soap to any potential hot spots.

Always pack a waterproof poncho to protect you from the rain; the last thing you want is to get your clothing drenched. Wearing wet clothing could cause hypothermia.

10 Pitch your tent correctly and safely
This set of camping tips concerns bugs, bears and poisonous plants. When pitching your tent or setting up another type of shelter, be on the lookout for wasp nests and other insects and bugs. If you're hanging out near vegetation, it's a good idea to wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. It won't hurt to apply insect repellent either. Check yourself frequently for ticks as well.

You probably know to avoid poison ivy and how to spot its three-leafed clusters. Poison oak and poison sumac -- which tend to have more than the three telltale leaves per bunch -- are also ones to watch out for. Wearing clothing that covers you from head to toe when you're near plants, bushes and trees will help reduce your chances of getting a rash. It's a good idea to have calamine lotion and an antihistamine or allergy medicine on hand in case you come across an irritant.

As we learned earlier, proper storage and disposal of food helps keeps bears from crashing your wilderness party. Secure food items high above the ground, such as on a rope or very tall tree branch.

Spicy Bread Pakoras- Picnic appetizers

Spicy Bread Pakoras are great as an appetizer, finger food for any type of the gathering, and a tasty compliment for your afternoon tea.

Make 12 pieces.



Ingredients:
4 slices of firm white bread
1 cup gram flour (besan)
1 tablespoon rice flour
1 teaspoon salt
Pinch of asafetida (hing)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
2 finely chopped green chilies
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (green coriander)
1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons of water
Oil to fry

Method:
Remove the crust from all sides of the bread.
Slice the bread lengthwise into 3 equal parts.
Mix all the dry ingredients together: Gram flour (besan), rice flour, asafetida, cumin seeds, and salt. Rice flour adds to the crispness.
Add the water slowly to make a smooth batter. (Batter should be the consistency of pancake batter or dosa batter)
Next, add the green chilies and cilantro. Mix well.
Heat the oil in a frying pan on medium high heat.
Frying pan should have at least 11/2 inch of oil. To check if the oil is ready, put one drop of batter in the oil. The batter should come up but not change color right away.
Dip the bread slices in the batter one at a time and slowley drop into the frying pan.
Fry the Pakoras in small batches. The pakoras will take about 4 to 5 minutes to cook.
Turn them occasionally. Fry the Pakoras until both sides are golden-brown.
Repeat this process. The crispy, delicious Bread Pakoras are ready to serve.

Tips:
If oil is too hot Pakoras will cook too fast and will not be crispy; if oil is not hot enough Pakoras will be greasy.
You may have to adjust the heat as needed while cooking.

Variations:

Use 1/4 cup of chopped spinach or 2 tablespoons of chopped fenugreek leaves as a substitute for the chopped cilantro.

Serving suggestions:
The bread pakoras are best when dipped with a fresh cilantro chutneyor tamarind chutney.
Pakoras taste best when they are served hot.
Pakoras can be made one day in advance do not refrigerate. When ready to eat, place on a cookie sheet and heat in the preheated oven on 300 degrees.

Urad Dal Puri- Tasty Picnic Yummies

Urad Dal Puri, also known as Bedmi Kachori. This hearty dish is fried puffed bread with a mix of lentils and spices. Urad Dal Puri is a North Indian delicacy, which is both delicious and festive. Urad Dal Puri is an excellent option with any meal as it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

This recipe will make 8 puries.

Ingredients:
1/4 cup urad dal
1 cup whole wheat flour (roti atta)
1 tablespoon fennel seed powder (Saunf)
1 tablespoon coriander powder (dhania)
1/8 teaspoon asafetida (hing)
1/4 teaspoon dry ginger powder (sonth)
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon oil
Oil to fry

Method
Wash and soak urad dal for 4 hours or more. Drain the water, blend dal coarsely into thick paste, using as little water as possible.
In a bowl mix all the spices to flour, and mix it well.
Add the dal paste (pithi) to the flour and make soft dough using lukewarm water as needed. Dough will be little sticky, grease your palm and put about 1 teaspoon of oil over the dough and knead the dough for about 1 minute. Cover the dough with damp cloth and let it sit for half an hour or more.
Oil your palm and knead the dough again and divide into 8 equal parts, oil the palm again and roll them into smooth balls. Set aside for about 5 minutes.
Oil the rolling pin and rolling surface. Roll the ball light handed in to about 6-inch circles.
You can roll 2-3 puris before you start frying, but do not roll all the puries at once or they will begin to dry and not puff.
Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium high heat; frying pan should have at least 1 inch of oil. To check if oil is hot enough place a small piece of dough in oil and dough should float to the top right away.
Place the puri in the frying pan and press it with a skimmer, puri should puff.
Turn puri over. Puri should be light golden brown from both sides. Take the puri out and place it on paper towels to absorb the excess oil.
They are at their best when served hot and crisp.
Store in a covered container after they cool to room temperature.

This is made for all special occasions at my home accompanied with spicy Squash sabji, raita and Methi Chutney

5 Important things to plan for a picnic with young ones

1. Bring along a basic first aid kit.

Eating outdoors just introduces a whole host of potential issues: bug bites, sunburns, scrapes, bruises, etc. Here’s what I always make sure to pack along with the food (Note to the FTC and whoever else cares – many of the links below are affiliate links.):
Sunscreen (I have an all natural brand; but check out this post for how you canuse essential oil to do the same thing!) lavender essential oil)
betadine cream  for bruises and the like
Band-Aids
Bug Spray

2. Pack a blanket or tarp.

If there’s a picnic table at your destination, this might not be necessary. Then again, it might be. You never know! We have a very basic picnic tarp-like blanket that is designed to be outdoors and has weights on the corners to keep it from blowing in the wind. You could also use an old sheet or blanket that you have lying around, of course.
3. Don’t forget the utensils!

I can’t tell you how many times I arrived at our picnic spot only to realize I forgot either the spoons, the forks, or a knife. So now it’s the first thing I think about! Even if you pack an entire spread of finger foods, just be on the safe side and pack a complete set (fork, spoon, knife) just in case.
4. No more boring picnic food!

Not being a huge fan of sandwiches, I’m always trying to think outside the box for creative picnic food ideas. I’ve compiled a list of picnic food options for you to consider, or you can check out the following articles:
Whole Foods has a whole bunch of ideas for you in every category… including dessert!
This compilation by Eating Well is more geared toward BBQ’s, but has some great ideas for picnicking as well.
And Woman’s Day brings us “Perfect Picnic Foods“.

5. Bring your picnic on wheels.

I probably wouldn’t even know such a thing as this existed – and I certainly wouldn’t put it on my top 5 picnic tips must-haves list! – if it weren’t for the fact that I picked one up at a yard sale for a ridiculously low price… and now find that I can’t live without our rolling cooler! This Rolling Cooler on Amazon is very much like the one we have, including the mesh pockets on the side that are perfect for the aforementioned first aid items. Ours also has a zippered pocket in front that’s perfect for paper plates, napkins, and utensils. There’s even enough space in the cooler to shove our picnic tarp, so our entire collection of picnic supplies fits into one convenient rolling case, which, incidentally, can even be pulled by our Certain Little Someone (who feels very proud of himself whenever he’s put in charge of it). I call that a total win-win!

What’s your perfect picnic tip?

Picnic Food with Methi Thepla

Methi Thepla is favorite Gujarati snack bread. It is very flavorful and makes for a great travel or picnic food.

Recipe will make 6 to 8.

Ingredients:
1 cup whole wheat flour (atta)
1/4 cup gram flour (basen)
1/8 teaspoon asafetida (hing)
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric (haldi)
1 teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
1 1/4 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
1/4 cup dry fenugreek leaves (kastoori methi)
2 tablespoons oil
1/4 cup yogurt (dahi)
About 3 tablespoons of water as needed
Approximately 1/4 cup of oil for cooking

Method
Mix all the dry ingredients together in a bowl: flour, gram flour, asafetida, cumin seeds, turmeric, chili flakes, salt, and fenugreek leaves.
Add oil and yogurt to the bowl and mix well. Add water as needed to make firm dough.
Knead the dough for 2 minutes on a lightly greased surface to make smooth and pliable dough.
Set the dough aside and cover it with a damp cloth. Let the dough rest for at least ten minutes.
Divide the dough into 6 to 8 equal parts. Using your palm, roll each one into a smooth ball and press flat.
Take each dough and press it in some dry flour on both sides. Using a rolling pin roll each dough into 5 to 6” diameter circle. If dough starts sticking, dust it with more flour. However, do not use any dry flour towards the end of the rolling. This will make the Thepla dry.

Cooking the Thepla
Heat the skillet on medium high (iron skillet works better). To see if the skillet is ready, put a couple of drops of water and it should start to sizzle, immediately.
Place the Thepla over the skillet. As the Thepla’s cooking, the color of the dough will change and have a dryer look. Turn over the Thepla using a spatula. You should see golden-brown spots on the semi-cooked side.
Wait just a few seconds and place 1/2 teaspoon of oil onto the Thepla and spread with a spatula. Turn over the Thepla.
Using your spatula, lightly press the entire Thepla. This will help it cook all the way and it may puff up in some areas.
Turn over the Thepla again and press with the spatula making sure it is golden-brown on both sides. Remove from heat.
Repeat with the remaining dough, till they are all done.

Serving Suggestions

Methi Thepla is flavorful bread, this can be enjoyed as is or serve withPlain Yogurt or try with Date and Raisin Chutney, this sweet and chutney can really enhance the flavor.

Variation

This recipe uses dry fenugreek leaves as it is available year round. But using fresh fenugreek leaves is ideal if you can find it. Substitute the dry leaves for 1/2 a cup of fresh chopped fenugreek leaves.

Quick Picnic Check list

You will find most of these things in your house, so why you get panicked when your kids tell you about quick picnic program. While going on a picnic, think creatively to make the trip memorable event not only for your kids but for the elders too. Plan the lunch, snacks and picnic activities keeping in mind the choices of each individual. Now, I will tell you some tips that will make it easier to prepare a perfect checklist of things you need for a picnic.

Using mattress pad or furniture pad makes it more convenient to shake away sand and dirt. Apart from this both of these can be washed easily. Don't afraid of carrying favorite dishes; wrap them well with tea towels. Tea, soft drinks coffee and juice etc taste better in glass containers. If you worry about breaking or losing of favourite cutlery, crockery, plates, buy cheap ones. You should take along cake covers of various sizes that will keep your food safe from insects. After returning back from picnic, don’t forget to wash the entire picnic items before strong them for the next use.

Yes, next time when you go to the market for routine shopping, purchase the listed items to store in your shelf so that you could prove yourself whenever neededChecklist of Things You Need for a Picnic

1. Mattress pad or furniture pad Shade umbrella, if required Sunscreen
2. Add bite lotion to first aid kit Disposable towels 
3. Hand wipe/tissue papers
4. Paper plates
5. Plastic utensils (Use and throw)
6. Napkins (or a roll of paper towels)
7. Sharp knife, can opener, bottle opener, scissors, Pre-moistened rough clothes (wet wipes) Thermo flasks to keep drinks warm or cool
8. Jelly and Peanut Butter
9. Pre-packed lunch and cheeses
10. Package of hot dogs
11. Apple sauce, pudding, single-serving-size fruit cups Chips, cookies, crackers
12. 2-3 bottles of drinking water
13. Some packs of drinks
14. Salt and pepper
15. Paper and Pencil
16. Some games like cards, chess, balls etc
17. Books, iPod, pillows etc.
18. Camera

PICNIC GAMES FOR KIDS

Picnics are about bonding and relaxation. You have the basket, the sandwiches, your co-workers, and the games. Of course, these activities aren’t limited to just Truth or Dares or Charades. Here are the fifteen coolest  picnic game ideas to spice up your outdoor party. Just keep an eye on that basket.

1. Horseshoes

This game is the staple of company picnics, played by two players, who throw horseshoes to a stake stuck on the ground. Whoever gets his horseshoe ring around, or closest, to the stake wins. The distances vary from 30 to 40 feet.

2. Tug-of-War

All you need is a long piece of strong rope, and the athleticism in you. Make a knot in the middle of the rope; draw a marker on the ground. Divide into 2 teams and let the pulling begin. The team that pulls the other team the furthest away from the marker in the middle wins.

3. Pass the Parcel

Jot down penalties on pieces of paper. For example, make your employees and co-workers dance, sing, mimic, or act. Form the group in a large circle, and pass the parcel (an empty box will do) while playing the music. Stop the tune, and whoever has the parcel will pick a penalty.

4. Act the Part

A variation of charades, but the players must act like famous personalities within a time limit. Or, if you know each other pretty well, you can imitate your friends.

5. Pie in the Face

This corporate party game can be messy. Place the pieces of paper with the message on the bottom of each plate and fill it with whipped cream to make a pie. Each player needs to eat the pie (with their hands tied) until they see the message and read it aloud. The one who reads the message first wins.

6. Spew

Another silly game that will surely make you laugh. Each player puts an Alka-Seltzer under their tongue, and drinks a cup of Sprite, or 7-Up. The player who holds the bubbles in his mouth the longest wins. Be ready to stand back shout “Yuck!”

7. Toiletpaper Game

Split the group into two and have them line up. Give each a toilet paper, and starting from the first member, run the toilet paper alternately over their heads and between their legs without breaking it. The first to reach the end of the line wins.

8. Three-Legged Balloon Race

Here is a fun company picnic game idea everyone will love. Best for a group with couples. Split them into pairs. Each pair stand side by side and have both their legs tied up. They also need to hold a balloon between their legs, and let the race begin!

9. Pass the Card

This fun game surely will break laughter. Divide the group into two and line them up. Give each member at start of the line an index card to hold in their mouth. Have each member pass it the next person in line until it reaches the end of the line. The team that reaches the end of the line first wins.

10. Wrap the Mummy

Another game with tissue papers! Divide into groups with three players in each group. Hand each group a two rolls of tissue paper. Have two people in each group wrap the third person with a roll of tissue paper. The first team to finish wrapping the tissue rolls around their team member wins.

11. Gargle

Split your co-workers into groups. Show one member a famous song then have him gulp water. While gargling it, he sings the tune of the song. The other members have to guess it correctly.

12. Connect

A game of quick-thinking. Form the group into a circle. The first person will say a word (like “dog”) then point another person in the circle who needs to respond with a related (or opposite) word (say, “puppy”) within five seconds. If they go beyond the time limit and they’re out. The last man standing wins.

13. Frozen T-Shirt

One of those wired company picnic games. The night before, soak shirts in water, wring them, fold, and put them into the freezer. The next day, use a large ice bucket to preserve the frozen shirts. Hand each to a member, have them unfold the shirts, and wear them. The first to do it wins.

14. Hip-Hip-Hooray!

A moderator will point randomly a member who will yell “Hip-Hip!” while bending over; clapping his hands between his two legs. Then the second person (randomly chosen, too) will shout “Hooray!” with his hands raised. The game will go on continuously. The person who shouts the wrong phase, or does the wrong action is out.

15. Dad’s Challenge

A game for Dad’s. Hang a clothesline, prepare a basket of clothes and some clothespins, and give the player a baby doll, and a cell phone. He must hold the baby doll properly and chat on the phone while hanging the clothes on the line within one or two minutes. The player with the most clothes hung wins.

Picnic Games for the Adults!

Picnics are definitely a great time for kids. The food, the atmosphere, the parents being too engaged in conversation to see where they've flung their dessert--it's all part of the wonderful memories that children keep with them when they've grown. But picnics can also bring a sense of peace, tranquility and fun to the adults as well. This is especially true when you've chosen a location that isn't open to family activities, like coastal areas with beach bars on the sand or a country club with fresh open space for you to romp in. Some camping resorts have gorgeous back country to picnic on and usually don't allow young children in these areas so you're almost certain to have peace and quiet. So pack your picnic basket and call your closest friends. Here are some entertaining ideas to make your adult picnic everything it can be.

Act the Part

This is a fun game where each player is out for himself. Silently, each player must choose a celebrity to give an impression of in under 15 seconds. He must act him or her out, whether as the celebrity or a character played by that celebrity. For example, Johnny Depp or the pirate he plays. A stop watch is required for this game but it's worth the trinket. Every player can take as many turns as he wants to gain more points. The opposing players and by-standers must guess at which celebrity or character is being acted out. The player who succeeds in being guessed the most times, wins!

Guess That....

Old fashioned blind-folded guessing games are making a come back amongst party goers and picnickers alike. Simply put, blindfolding guests and having them identify what they are drinking, holding or smelling can be a very interesting and exciting time. Have your guests guess which soda or alcohol they are drinking or which kind of pie they are eating. Make them keep eating until they guess! Some other fun choices would be which brand of hot dog is that? The possibilities are endless! Let's us know what you come up with!

Old Fashioned Pie Eating Contest
Line them up on your picnic tables and have your participants clasp their own hands behind their backs! These pies must be eaten in the messiest way! Give each player a helper as well, to remove the pie they've cleared and hand them the next. Be clear on your rules, however, to eliminate people from cheating by "smooshing". This is when a player makes their pie look like it's been eaten by smooshing it onto their faces and the table. This is wasteful, so be sure that pie eaters know that they have to eat every bite of the pie before moving on. To help the contest move forward with fun and resolution, make the pies shallow and smaller than a traditional pie. Only place a small amount of tasty filling in the bottom and leave most of the pie as cream. Banana, peach, vanilla cream and chocolate cream are great for pie eating contests.

Murder Mystery Picnic

Give your guests a great time by putting together a murder mystery for them to act out and guess over like the board game Clue. These are especially popular at Hollywood parties and clubs so why not your picnic? 

Poker for Lolly Pops

Using candy, tequila shots or liquor filled chocolates as your poker chips, play as many rounds of 3 and 5 card poker as you can. Dedicate the driver of the bunch, for drinkers, as the dealer and rules keeper of the games. The determined poker champion should win a jar for his winnings of candy or some other prize...be creative!

Shot Glass Checkers

For those who like to cut loose with the liquor, this is just perfect. Whether your opponent has to drink when he loses a piece or you do, this great game can pass the time and make way for boisterous fun. If adult beverages are too strong for you, then substitute with your beverage of choice!

So, the next time you are planning a picnic with the adult crowd have fun and entertain the crowd with one or more of these great games for adults! Your fun time with grown up friends should certainly be an inspired and positive one! Enjoy!

Tips for Picnicing durng pregnancy

Complete nine months is a very long time to be expected not to travel during pregnancy. You will be glad to hear that traveling is perfectly safe for most pregnant women who are in healthy state of their pregnancy.

Basic care during pregnancy traveling


Take advice from doctor before any long travel.
Try to keep your luggage light.
Follow below travelling tips.
Tips for safe travel during pregnancy


1. Plan in advance for travel during pregnancy

Before starting your travelling prepare yourself with all safety gadgets. Plan your travel. Collect and pack all your travelling accessories with you. Go through all travelling instructions in this post. Tick your safe pregnancy travel checklist.
Things you should carry during pregnancy travelling
Tissues, Ear plugs, eye mask, your favorite pillow
Food and snacks, water and fresh juices, comfortable cloths, adjustable foot wears
List of travelling tips, Emergency phone numbers list, Current prenatal record and medical kit

2. Food and snacks during pregnancy travelling

If you are travelling for long duration eat something with regular intervals. Keep food and snacks availed during long flights, long drives, and traffic situation.
Why you should have food at regular intervals
You will be well nourished.
This will help you to ease common pregnancy problems like morning sickness and stomach bugs.

3. Stretch yourself in regular intervals

No matter where you are in car, in traffic, in airplane or in train you have to move on and stretch yourself in regular intervalsduring pregnancy travelling.
Frequency of your stretch should be less than one hour.
This will prevent soreness and stiffness of your body.

4. Carry prenatal records and medical kit during pregnancy travelling

Always carry your current prenatal record and your insurance details with you while travelling during pregnancy. You can get your prenatal details from your doctor. Get list of vaccines to avoid during your pregnancy from your doctor. For safety you can carry your medical kit as well. Take any anti fungal cream advised by your doctor for vaginal thrush. Do not forget to carry your prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements.

5. Check airlines policies for pregnant women

Many airlines do not allow women to travel during their last few weeks of pregnancy. Please check airlines policies before booking your ticket.

6. More liquid intake for traveling during pregnancy

Pregnant women need a lot of fluids. Traveling can make you dehydrated. Make sure that you always carry a water bottle or fresh juices with you.

7. Good food habits travelling during pregnancy

Carry fresh fruits and nutritious food along with you (Nuts, Whole grain crackers ). Try to maintain your daily food schedule. Do not miss your regular meals time. Eat on regular intervals to avoid fatigue and other problems.

8. Dress code for traveling during pregnancy

Wear cotton pants and loose cotton layers for comfortable travelling during pregnancy. While selecting your dress for your travelling fulfill below checkpoints.
Wear cloths as per your comfort.
Dress as per your travelling method (car, air, train, bus).
Clothing pattern should be as per environment which will make you cool or warm.
Dress to avoid traveling during pregnancy
Tight jeans and nylon tights

9. How to avoid feet swelling during pregnancy travelling

When you are pregnant your feet may swell. Follow below tips to avoid feet swelling.
Take your foot wear off and put your feet up whenever possible.
Select adjustable footwear.
You can take small walk during interval to avoid swelling.
Get flat footwear’s which will be more comfortable for you.
Get special pregnancy socks to keep down the swelling.

10. When to avoid travelling during your pregnancy

Avoid travelling during pregnancy in these periods unless emergency.

First few weeks of pregnancy
Last few weeks of pregnancy
If you have any complications during your pregnancy
Doctor has strictly advised you not to travel

11. Avoid vaccination while travelling during pregnancy

Do not travel to any country where vaccination is mandatory on arrival. In pregnancy you should avoid taking any kind of medicines and vaccine without advice of your doctor. Let your doctor decide if that vaccine is safe for you.

12. Safe activities during pregnancy picnics

Choose activities which will not harm you during your pregnancy. You can do activities, such as yoga, brisk walking, and swimming. Avoid activities like.
Snowboarding, riding, skiing, water-skiing, windsurfing, white water rafting and climbing.
Scuba diving could lead air bubbles form in your bloodstream and be transferred to your baby.
Amusement park rides and water-slides
Hot tub and sauna, overheating is not safe for your baby.

13. Seat belt during pregnancy

You can wear seat belt during pregnancy. Your safety is your baby’s safety when you are pregnant.

14. Is airport scanning and screening machines are safe for pregnant women
Metal detectors use low frequency electromagnetic field to search weapons. It is safe for all including pregnant women.
Airport authority claims that body scanning machines uses very low radiations and not harmful for pregnant women.
Luggage X ray machines uses X-rays to scan luggage so it can be harmful to anybody so stay away from luggage X-ray machines.

15. Is Air bag in car are safe during pregnancy

Yes. In case of accident air bag will keep you safe. Air bags inflate automatically and create protective cushion between passenger and the steering wheel or dashboard during collision.

More Picnic Game Ideas for the Grown Ups

A picnic party for a group of fun minded adults demands a variety of activities for a variety of people.  So here's another list of great games for you and your guests to play at your picnic party. They're sure to make your picnic that much more special!

Opposites Attract

If you're having a rather large event of say, 20 or more people, this is a great game to play so everyone is introduced. Before hand, cut out as many small pieces of card paper as you have guests and write a color, adjective or object on half of them, making sure the word you choose has a complete opposite. For example, the words black, on, above, pretty, light, high, fun, and big are great words because they each have opposites which would be white, off, below, ugly, dark, low, misery, and little.

As each guest arrives, give them one of the cards and tell them they must find their opposite when he or she arrives and learn 5 things about that person. Once each person has arrived and the guests have become familiar with one another, give each person a moment to tell everyone who they met (their opposite) and the 5 things they learned about that person. This is a great ice breaker especially when it is a party for many unknowns.

Merry Go Around

This is a hoot, especially for guests who have ever played acting warm ups in drama classes for school. Have all your guests sit or stand in a circle and have the first player (anyone) start the game off with a word. The word can be anything like zebra, can, cat, dog or understanding. The first player says their word and motions throwing the word at any other player. That player must then say the first word that comes to mind after hearing the first player's word. For example, when someone says cat, usually the first thing the next person thinks of is dog or meow. Whenever a player pauses or hesitates for more than 5 seconds, they are out! The last one standing wins!

Family Feud

If your picnic party has a majority of married couples or adult families, Family Feud is a great game to play. Whether you play the old fashioned board game version or the DVD version on a portable DVD player, this trivia guessing game is a genuine good time for adult picnic goers.

Assassin

Cut a small piece of card stock for each player and mark just one of them with an X. Fold the cards in half (make sure they are relatively small) and place them in a canister or can. As each guest arrives, let them choose a piece of paper but tell them not to look at it yet. When everyone has arrived assemble them in a group and explain the game to them. Then, on your mark have everyone quickly look at their card...and NO PEEKING at anyone else's card! The person who has the X on their card is the Assassin.

During conversation throughout the day, the assassin will wink secretly at people. When a person is winked at, they must declare that they've been hit! If another player thinks he's caught the assassin winking, they must declare the one they suspect! They only get one guess, and if they're correct, they win. If not, they are declared dead. The first person to guess correctly or the last person "alice" wins the game!

Entertain the Crowd!

We hope these fun games for adults add some spice to your picnic party. Whether it's for a birthday, anniversary, shower of some sort or just a fun picnic you've put together for the bonding and coming together of a group of friends, have a great time and be sure to take along the perfect picnic basket.

Salted Crisp Crackers - A treat for picnics

Mathris are salted crisp crackers. Mathris are popular afternoon snack. Traditionally, mathris are served with spicy pickles.

Makes 40 to 50 mathri.



Ingredients:
2 cups All Purpose flour (plain flour or maida)
1/2 cup sooji (semolina flour)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ajwain
4 tablespoons oil
3/4 cup lukewarm water (use as needed)
Oil to fry

Method
Mix all the ingredients except the water.
Add the water little at a time, kneading into a firm dough.
Cover the dough and set aside for 15 minutes or more.
Divide the dough into about 40 equal parts.
Take each part of the dough and make a flat ball shape. Roll them into 2 inch circles.
Prick each mathri with a fork in 5 to 6 places, so the mathris do not puff when frying.
Heat the oil in a frying pan on medium heat.
The frying pan should have atleast 1 1/2 inch of oil.To check if the oil is ready, put a small piece of dough in the oil. The dough should make the oil sizzle and come up slowly.
Fry a few matris at a time. Make sure to place just enough mathris to cover the frying oil.
Fry the mathris until both sides are a light golden-brown.

Tips:
Mathris can be stored for a couple of months in airtight containers.
If the mathris are cooked on high heat, they will be soft.

Summer Picnic Foods Can Present Danger to the Elderly

Summer Picnic Foods Can Present Danger to the Elderly


Center for Disease Control (CDC) Recommends Precautions for Seniors on Ready-to-Eat Meats




With the onset of summer, many elderly adults are enjoying the outside and the tradition of cookouts and picnics. For the elderly, however, there are certain risks in consuming certain foods commonly found at outdoor picnics. The CDC advises the elderly that it’s important to know that ready-to-eat hot dogs, lunch meats, and cold cuts may not be safe to eat. These meats and other foods can be contaminated with the bacteria Listeria, which causes listeriosis. Listeriosis is a serious disease that primarily affects older adults, adults with weakened immune systems, pregnant women and newborns. Listeria is unlike many other germs because it can grow even in the cold temperature of the refrigerator.

Symptoms include fever and chills, headache, upset stomach and vomiting. Anyone can get the illness.

In the United States, approximately 1,600 people become seriously ill with listeriosis each year and 260 die from the disease. Healthy children and adults sometimes get infected with listeria, but they rarely become seriously ill.

The following groups have a higher risk of becoming ill with listeriosis

• Older adults
• Persons with weakened immune systems from transplants or certain diseases, therapies, or medications.
• Persons with cancer, diabetes, alcoholism, liver or kidney disease.
• Persons with AIDS: They are almost 300 times more likely to get listeriosis than people with normal immune systems.

Listeria is killed by pasteurization and cooking, but certain ready-to-eat foods, such as hot dogs and deli meats, can be contaminated after factory processing.

CDC recommends the following precautions for individuals in the high risk groups

1. Do not eat hot dogs, luncheon meats, cold cuts, or other deli meats unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165ºF or until steaming hot.
2. Do not eat refrigerated pâté or meat spreads from a deli or meat counter or from the refrigerated section of a store.
3. Do not eat soft cheese such as feta, queso blanco, queso fresco, brie, Camembert, blue-veined, or panela (queso panela) unless it is labeled as made with pasteurized milk.
4. Do not eat refrigerated smoked seafood, unless it is contained in a cooked dish, such as a casserole, or unless it is a canned or shelf-stable product. Refrigerated smoked seafood, such as salmon, trout, whitefish, cod, tuna, and mackerel, is most often labeled as “nova-style,” “lox,” “kippered,” “smoked,” or “jerky.” Canned and shelf stable tuna, salmon, and other fish products are safe to eat.

The CDC stresses the importance of using precooked or ready-to-eat food as soon as you can. Do not store the product in the refrigerator beyond the use-by date. Follow USDA refrigerator storage time guidelines:

1. Hot Dogs – store opened package no longer than 1 week and unopened package no longer than 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
2. Luncheon and Deli Meat – store factory-sealed, unopened package no longer than 2 weeks. Store opened packages and meat sliced at a local deli no longer than 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Listeriosis is a serious disease that can lead to death, even with prompt treatment. Death caused by listeriosis is particularly likely in older adults, people with weakened immune systems or other medical conditions, and fetuses and newborn babies. Take the necessary precautions to make certain that you and your loved ones do not get infected.

Poppey's Spinach crackers for picnic

Spinach crackers are crisp flavored with cheese and mildly spiced makes tasty snack.

Ingredients
1 cup all purpose flour (maida, plain flour)
½ cup semolina (fine sooji)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoon butter
½ teaspoon cumin seeds
½ teaspoon chili flakes
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
¾ cup spinach puree
Oil to fry

Method
Mix all purpose flour, semolina, salt, chili flakes, cumin seeds, and baking soda in a bowl together.
Add the butter and parmesan cheese, mix well it will be consistency of bread crumb.
Add the spinach puree and make firm dough.
Set the dough aside and cover it with a damp cloth. Let the dough rest for at least ten minutes.
Divide the dough in 16 equal parts and make them into balls.
Roll the dough about into a 5-inch circle.
Slice the each roll dough in 4 pieces in triangle shape.
Heat the oil in a frying pan on medium heat.
The frying pan should have at least 1 ½ inch of oil. To check if the oil is ready, put a small piece of dough in the oil. The dough should make the oil sizzle and come up slowly.
Make sure to place just enough chips so you can turn them over easily when frying. Fry the chips until both sides are light golden in color.
After chips come to room temperature they should become crisp.

Tips:
Spinach chips can be stored for weeks in airtight containers.
If the chips are cooked on high heat, they will be soft.

Light in the house - stories for picnic

There is a Tamil proverb dîpam lakshmîkaram, meaning, “light makes prosperity,” and the following story is related to explain it:—

In the town of Gôvindapâthî there lived a merchant named Paśupati Śeṭṭi, who had a son and a daughter. The son’s name was Vinîta and the daughter’s Garvî, and while still playmates they made a mutual vow, that in case they ever had children that could be married to each other, they would certainly see that this was done. Garvî grew up to marry a very rich merchant, and gave birth in due course to three daughters, the last of whom was named Sunguṇî. Vinîta, too, had three sons. Before, however, this brother and sister could fulfil their vow an event happened which threw a gloom over all their expectations.

Paśupati Śeṭṭi died, and his creditors—for he had many—grew troublesome. All his property had to be sold to clear his debts, and in a month or two after his father’s death Vinîta was reduced to the condition of a penniless pauper. But being a sensible person he patiently bore up against his calamity, and tried his best to live an honest life on what little was left to him.

His sister Garvî was, as has been already said, married into a rich family, and when she saw the penniless condition of her brother the engagements she had entered into with him began to trouble her. To give or not to give her daughters in marriage to the sons of her brother! This was the question that occupied her thoughts for several months, till at last she determined within herself never to give poor husbands to her children. Fortunately for her, two young merchants of respectable family offered themselves to her two eldest daughters, she gladly accepted them and had the weddings celebrated. The last daughter, Suguṇî, alone remained unmarried.

Vinîta was sorely troubled in his heart at this disappointment, as he never thought that his sister would thus look down upon his poverty; but, being very sensible, he never interfered and never said a word. The vow of his childhood was, however, known to every one, and some came to sympathise with him; while others spoke in a criticising tone to Garvî for having broken her promise, because her brother had become poor through unforeseen circumstances. Their remarks fell on the ears of Suguṇî, who was as yet unmarried, and also was a very learned and sensible girl. She found her uncle Vinîta extremely courteous and respectful, and his sons all persons of virtue and good nature. The thought that her mother should have forgotten all these excellent and rare qualities in the presence of fleeting mammon (asthiraiśvarya) vexed her heart very greatly. So, though it is considered most contrary to etiquette for a girl in Hindû society to fix upon a boy as her husband, she approached her mother and thus addressed her:—

“Mother, I have heard all the story about your vow to your brother to marry us—myself and my sisters—to his sons, our cousins; but I am ashamed to see you have unwarrantably broken it in the case of my sisters. I cannot bear such shame. I cannot marry anyone in the world except one of my three cousins. You must make up your mind to give me your consent.”

Garvî was astonished to hear her youngest daughter talk thus to her.

“You wish to marry a beggar?” said she. “We will never agree to it, and if you persist we will give you away to your penniless pauper, but we will never see your face again.”

But Suguṇî persisted. So her marriage with the youngest son of Vinîta was arranged. He had never spoken a word about it to his sister, but he had waited to make matches for his children till all his sister’s daughters had been given away, and when he heard that Suguṇî was determined to marry his youngest son, he was very pleased. He soon fixed upon two girls from a poor family for his other sons, and celebrated the three weddings as became his position.

Suguṇî was as noble in her conduct as in her love for her poor cousin. She was never proud or insolent on account of having come from a rich family. Nor did she ever disregard her husband, or his brothers, or father.

Now Vinîta and his sons used to go out in the mornings to gather dried leaves which his three daughters-in-law stitched into plates (patrâvalî), which the male members of the family sold in thebâzâr for about four paṇams each. Sometimes these leaf-plates would go for more, sometimes for less; but whatever money the father-in-law brought home his daughters-in-law used for the day’s expense. The youngest of them was Suguṇî, who spent the money most judiciously, and fed her father-in-law and his sons sumptuously. Whatever remained she partook of with her two poor sisters-in-law, and lived most contentedly. And the family respected Suguṇî as a paragon of virtue, and had a [very great regard for her. Her parents, as they had threatened, never returned to see how their last, and of course once beloved, child was doing in her husband’s home. Thus passed a couple of years.

One day the king of the town was taking an oil bath, and pulling a ring off his finger, left it in a niche in the open courtyard. A garuḍa (Brâhmaṇî kite) was at that moment describing circles in the air, and, mistaking the glittering rubies in the ring for flesh, pounced upon it and flew away. Finding it not to be flesh he dropped it in the house of Suguṇî’s husband. She happened to be alone working in the courtyard, while her sisters-in-law and the others were in different parts of the house. So she took up the sparkling ring and hid it in her lap.

Soon afterwards she heard a proclamation made in the street that the king had lost a valuable ring, and that any person who could trace it and give it back to him should obtain a great reward. Suguṇî called her husband and his brothers and thus addressed them:—

“My lord and brothers, I have the king’s ring. Exactly at midday a garuḍa dropped it in our courtyard and here it is. We must all go to the king, and there, before you three, I shall deliver up the ring, explaining how I got it. When his majesty desires me to name my reward I shall do so, and beg of you never to contradict or gainsay my desires, if they appear very humble in your opinion.”

The brothers agreed, and they all started for the palace. They had a very great respect for Suguṇî and expected a good result from this visit to the king.

The palace was reached, and the ring was given back to the king with the explanation. His majesty was charmed at the modesty and truthfulness of Suguṇî, and asked her to name her reward.

“My most gracious sovereign! King of kings! Supreme lord! Only a slight favour thy dog of a servant requests of your majesty. It is this, that on a Friday night all the lights in the town be extinguished, and not a lamp be lit even in the palace. Only the house of thy dog of a servant must be lighted up with such lights as it can afford.”

“Agreed, most modest lady. We grant your request, and we permit you to have the privilege you desire this very next Friday.”

Joyfully she bowed before his majesty, and returned with her husband and the others to her house. She then pledged the last jewel she had by her and procured some money.

Friday came. She fasted the whole day, and as soon as twilight approached she called both the brothers of her husband, and thus addressed them:—

“My brothers, I have made arrangements for lighting up our house with one thousand lamps to-night. One of you, without ever closing your eyes for a moment, must watch the front of our house and the other the back. If a woman of a graceful appearance and of feminine majesty wishes you to permit her to enter it, boldly tell her to swear first never to go out again. If she solemnly agrees to this, then permit her to come in. If in the same way any woman wishes to go out, make a similar condition that she must swear never to return at any time in her life.”

What Suguṇî said seemed ridiculous to the brothers; but they allowed her to have her way, and waited to see patiently what would take place.

The whole town was gloomy that night, except Suguṇî’s house; for, by order of his majesty, no light was lit in any other house. The Ashṭalakshmîs—the Eight Prosperities—entered the town that night and went house by house into every street. All of them were dark, and the only house lit up was Suguṇî’s. They tried to enter it, but the brother at the door stopped them and ordered them to take the oath. This they did, and when he came to understand that these ladies were the Eight Prosperities, he admired the sagacity of his brother’s wife.

A nimisha after the eight ladies had gone in, there came out of the house a hideous female and requested permission to go, but the brother at the back would not permit this unless she swore never to come back again. She solemnly swore, and the next moment he came to know that she wasMûdêvî, or Adversity, the elder sister of Prosperity.

For she said:—“My sisters have come. I cannot stay here for a minute longer. God bless you and your people. I swear by everything sacred never to come back.”

And so, unable to breathe there any longer, Adversity ran away.

When the morning dawned, the Prosperities had already taken up a permanent abode with the family. The rice bag became filled. The money chest overflowed with money. The pot contained milk. And thus plenty began to reign in Suguṇî’s house from that day. The three brothers and her father-in-law were overjoyed at the way Suguṇî had driven away their poverty for ever, and even Suguṇî’s parents did not feel it a disgrace to come and beg their daughter’s pardon. She nobly granted it and lived with all the members of her family in prosperity for a long life.

It is a notion, therefore, among orthodox Hindûs, that light in the house brings prosperity, and darkness adversity.

Things To Remember While On Picnic

Most times, people forget to carry simple stuff during travelling expeditions. Here are a list of things I think would be important.
1. First aid kit: Very important thing to carry with you when on a one day picnic. This might be required at places that are at a distance from healthcare facilities, like dams, waterfalls and jungle treks.

2. Pair of extra clothing: Recommended when going for water sport adventures like white water rafting or activities like rain dance. During monsoons and winter months, it becomes very important that children have warm clothing.

3. Paper soaps and hand sanitizers: Again a very important thing to have in your sack or wallet. You are bound to soil your hands and are least likely to find hygienic washrooms on your trip. Most important thing to have for children and elderly people in your group lest they catch some infection, isn't it?

4. Share Your Itinerary: Before leaving for your trip, do let your close ones know your target destinations and itinerary. God forbid there be any mishaps, your loved ones will know where to contact and know your wellbeing.

5. Carry a map along. Who knows, you might stumble upon some more offbeat destinations along the way and would want to explore them further.
Least to mention, do carry your PhotoIDs (for all members), Mobile with Charger and Extra spectacles if you wear one.

6. Having a powerful TORCHLIGHT in your sack is again a must have item along with Small Scissor, Sunglasses and Multi-Plug adapter.

7. Last but not the least, carry a good bunch of Pens, crayons, chocolates, toffees to giveaway after games. Your people will love you for it!

8. If you are going trekking, do carry these stuff with you: Hard Wooden Stick, Rain Coat, Caps, Water 7. 

Bottles and Trekking Shoes.

Picnic Food recipe for Finger sandwiches

These mouthwatering finger sandwiches are great for any picnic or party. The flavored cream cheese spread with different herbs give a unique taste, and has a nice crunch with every bite. The recipes are for four different sandwiches: Tomato, Cabbage, Cucumber and Pineapple. You can prepare one or all four of these varieties, as they are quite easy to make.

Recipe will make 16 finger sandwiches.

Ingredients:
8 slices of firm white bread
5 oz cream cheese at room temperature
3 teaspoons ginger paste
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 green chili, minced
1/2 teaspoon Hari Cilantro Chutney recipe is on the web site
2 tablespoons minced cilantro (hara Dhania)
1 tablespoon minced mint (podina)
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup cabbage, finely sliced
8 slices cucumber, thinly sliced
8 slices tomato, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crushed pineapple
2 pickled peperoncini, finely diced

Method
Trim sides of each slice of bread. Set aside.
Divide the cream cheese into four equal parts.

Tomato Sandwich
To one part of the cream cheese add black pepper, 1 teaspoon ginger, mint leaves and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Spread cream cheese mixture onto 2 slices of bread. Place tomato slices and top with the other slice of bread to make the sandwich.
Cut into 4 pieces, garnish with a dab of spread and a sliver of tomato.

Cabbage Sandwich
To one part of the cream cheese add cabbage, 1 tablespoon of cilantro, 1 teaspoon ginger, half of the green chili (adjust to taste) and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Spread mixture onto one slice of bread and top with another slice to make sandwich.
Cut into 4 pieces and garnish with a dab of the spread.

Cucumber Sandwich
To one part of the cream cheese add Hari Cilantro Chutney. Mix well.
Spread cream cheese mixture onto 2 slices of bread. Place cucumber slices and top with the other slice of bread to make the sandwich.
Cut into 4 pieces, garnish with a dab of spread and a sliver of cucumber.

Pineapple Sandwich
To one part of the cream cheese add pineapple, black pepper, 1 teaspoon ginger, pepperchini (adjust to taste), and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Spread mixture onto one slice of bread and top with another slice to make the sandwich.
Cut into 4 pieces and garnish with a dab of the spread.

Tips

You can easily prepare these finger sandwiches with yogurt if you prefer. However, you need to remove as much water as you can from the yogurt before using it.

1. Place a muslin or cheesecloth over a strainer and pour yogurt to drain the water.
2. Gently squeeze the yogurt to remove excess water, making sure not to let the yogurt drain through.
3. Place a bowl underneath the strainer and place in a refrigerator for at least 6 hours to drain more water. 
4. Yogurt will become thick in consistency, just like cream cheese.

10 picnic games

1. Shaving Cream Beard Relay Contest: Divide the kids into 2-4 teams of equal members. Designate some adults to be the "beard makers" - one adult is needed per team. You can either use shaving cream, or canned whipped cream. Children must line up and run one at a time to the beard maker, who will then decorate their faces with a beard. They must then run back and tag the next member of their team to be bearded. The first team to all be wearing beards wins!

2. Potato Sack Relay Race: To play, divide the children into 2 or 4 teams. Determine the boundaries for the race. Children must then hop in the potato sacks (one team member at a time) to the designated spot and then hop back to their team members. He/She must then give the sack to the next team member. The first team for all members to successfully hop back and forth wins!

3. Mummy Contest: Divide the group into teams. Provide each team with 2-3 rolls of toilet paper. Instruct them to choose a player to be the mummy, and the must make the selected person into a mummy using the toiler paper. The first team with a completely covered mummy wins.

4. Photo Scavenger Hunt: This one's best for older kids and teens. If you've planned a big bash that lasts all day, this might be good for activity for an hour or so at the end of the day.

5. Water Balloon Toss Game: Fill a lot of balloons with water. Ask each child to get a partner. Give each team of 2 a water balloon. Have the players stand very close together and throw the the balloon back and forth. Each time after the balloon is tossed, the players must take one step backwards. The farther they go, the more likely they will not catch the balloon and it will break. The last team to have an intact water balloon wins.

6. Capture the Flag: This is a fun interactive game for children ages 6 and above. Get 2 flags (if you don't have one you can use towels or t-shirts) and divide the group of children into 2 teams. Place the 2 flags on opposite sides of the lawn in an easy to reach area, such as on a low tree, or a chair if necessary. The goal of the game is for the team to capture the opposing team's flag safely without being tagged. If they are a tagged, they must go to "jail" where they will be released when all team members are placed in jail or the game ends, whichever comes first. The first team to capture the other team's flag wins! (You can also play this game with water balloons - instead of being tagged, they are thrown water balloons.)

7. Watermelon Roll Relay: This is similar to the potato sack race, but instead of jumping in a sack the children must roll the watermelon. The first team where each child has successfully rolled a watermelon back and forth wins!

8. Take a Hike: This is a fun game for older kids and teens. Arrange chairs in a circle and have everyone sit down. Choose one child to be in the center, and remove that chair, so there is enough chairs for all but one person. Say a phrase such as "If you're wearing tennis shoes, take a hike!" After that, all players who are wearing tennis shoes but run across the circle to find another seat. If they are the last one and can't find a seat, they will be in the center and can choose the next phrase such as "If your birthday is in the summer"m "If you like ice cream", or "If you've ever been skiing", etc. It's a non-competitive but fun activity.

9. Three Legged Race: A Three-Legged race is a game that promotes teamwork and cooperation. Have each child find a partner, preferably someone with similar height. Tie everyone's legs together and determine the boundaries for the race. The first team to make it to the finish line wins! Don't forget to take lots of pictures, as this is a great photo moment!

10. Egg Race Relay: This one also uses 2 teams. Provide each team with a spoon and a cartoon of eggs. One player at a time from each team must go to a designated spot (say 15- 20 feet away) and back holding an egg on a spoon. If he/she drops the egg, he/she must start over with a new egg. The first team where each player has successfully traveled back and forth with an intact egg, wins!

Happy Partying! Enjoy!

Tourist Attractions in Mysore

Mysore is a major tourist city of Karnataka. The city was the erstwhile capital of the state and hence has played an important role in the history of the state and of South India. Today it has developed into a modern city like many other cities in the country. But this city has not lost touch with its rich historical and cultural legacy. Mysore city is a favourite tourist destination in Karnataka. Tourist from within the country and from outside come see the splendour of the city of Mysore. The city has a number of places a person can visit. There are a number of Royal buildings, gardens, waterfalls, temples, museums and modern amusement parks.

The city of Mysore is known as the 'City Of Palaces'. There are number of buildings built by the Royal family and are exquisite examples of Dravidian architecture and display grandeur and lavish life lead by the Emperors while they ruled the state. Apart from the Palaces there are number of other tourists attractions that one can visit in Mysore. One of the popular spots is the Chamundi hills and the temple on top of the hills. This prominent landmark of Mysore is a favourite destination for the locales as well.

The KRS dam and the adjoining Brindavan Gardens are worth visiting. The Brindavan Gardens is one of its kinds in the country. It is famous all over for its colorfully lit dancing fountains that come alive once the sun sets. There are three lakes in Mysore that have become a haven for migratory birds and are set in lush green surroundings that are relaxing and worth visiting. The Mysore Zoo is the oldest Zoo in the country and was set up by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar in 1892.

The Zoo flourished under Royal patronage and was handed over to the Government after independence. Today the Zoo is equipped with the most modern facilities and is a pioneer in breeding animals in captivity. Another famous monument of Mysore city is the Philomena Church that has a relic of the 3rd century St. Philomena preserved in a catacomb in below the main altar. The Church is also famous for its 175 feet high spires. These are some of the important sights to see in Mysore city.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Another place that one should visit while on a trip to Srirangapatnam is the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Ranganathittu is about 18km form Mysore and is home to some of the most exotic birds. It is a group of small islands in the Cauvery River.

Ranganthittu was formed as a result of a small dam across the river Cauvery in the 1600s. The Bird Sanctuary at Ranganathittu owes its existence to the world famous ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali who convinced the Maharaja of Mysore in 1940 to declare Ranganthittu as a protected area. The sanctuary is not very large it covers an area of 0.67sq.km. But is home to a great variety of birds and a few reptiles. It is said that the sanctuary is a sight to behold during the nesting season of the birds from June to November. The sanctuary is home to a wide species of birds including cormorants, darters, white ibis, spoon billed storks, open billed storks, painted storks, white necked storks, egrets, herons, terns, swallows, kingfishers, sandpiper etc. There are a few mammals in the sanctuary like fruit bats, bonnet macaques, palm civets, common mongoose and common otters. Marsh crocodiles make up the reptile population of the sanctuary.

The sight of fruit bats, crocodiles and birds flying around is a beautiful sight to watch. You can take a boat ride around the sanctuary and get a closer look at the birds and the crocodiles. The entrance of the park has huge bamboo surrounding the winding path. On both sides of the path are boards with pictures and information about the different birds that are found in the sanctuary. There is a small canteen situated near the lake made in a clearing between the bamboos. The best season to visit the sanctuary is May-September and October. If you are a nature enthusiast it is best to visit the sanctuary in the early hours of the morning before the sanctuary gets crowded with visitors.

Bandipur National Park

Another interesting place that you can visit while in Mysore is the Bandipur National Park. This Park is about 80 km from Mysore city and is a peaceful retreat in nature's lap far from the din of the city. After going around the vibrant city of Mysore and visiting all its treasures take some time off to unwind and enjoy quite peace of the lush green forests.

The Maharaja of Mysore set up this Park in 1931. The Park is at the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills. The Park has well laid out roads that lead you into the heart of this Park. Here you can see a wide variety of birds and animals in the natural habitat. This Park is home to a number of rare and endangered species of birds and animals. The World Wildlife Fund has chosen the Park for their project tiger scheme to protect tigers in India. The Park has accommodation for visitors as well. There are cottages that are run by the Forest Department, a hotel run by the Karnataka Tourism Department and some privately managed cottages as well. So there is no difficulty finding accommodation in the Park. Gundelpet is the closest town to the Park and is about 20km from it. Here too one can find accommodation.

The forest department has a number of safaris that are conducted within the Park. These safaris are conducted in well-protected buses. The animals that one sees commonly are deer, antelope, elephants and peacocks and occasionally on can see elephants and tigers. The forest department also organizes group treks inside the park lead by professionally trained guides. One can take a trip of the sanctuary on an elephant as well. The highest point on the sanctuary is the Gopalswamy Betta (Hill). This hill has a temple of Lord Venugopal on the top that you can visit.

SHOPPING IN MYSORE

If you are a resident of Karnataka, then you will know that there are some things that are synonymous with the city of Mysore. Mysore Silks, Mysore Jasmine (Mysore Mallige), Mysore Sandalwood (Mysore Srigandha) and Mysore Eggplant (Mysore Badane) are the things that the city is famous for. For centuries now the city of Mysore has been famous for these things and this tradition continues to this day. The craftsmen of Mysore are equally famous. The city has some of the most beautiful and intricately carved temples in Karnataka. This tradition exists to this day, though the craftsmen use sandalwood and rosewood to carve on and make exquisite artifacts.

Mysore is known all over the world for its silks. The women in India and especially in South India have used silk sarees for a very long time. Silk sarees are worn especially on religious and auspicious occasions. The cost of a silk saree depends on the amount of 'zari' or gold it contains. Most sarees have gold lace on both edges of the saree and on it's pallu-the part of the saree that is wrapped over the shoulder. There are private weavers in Mysore and there is the Government Silk Weaving Factory that produces beautiful silk sarees, silk fabric and ties. This factory has its showroom on Manandavadi Road and also in the shopping area around KR Circle in Mysore. There are numerous Private showrooms that sell Mysore silks. Mysore crepe silk sarees are the most sought after ones.

Mysore is famous for its handicrafts as well. Most of the work is wood based. The artifacts are made out of sandalwood, rosewood and teakwood. In the olden days Mysore was known for its ivory handicrafts and inlay work. With the ban on ivory this craft has disappeared. Mysore is best known for its sandalwood artifacts and sandalwood products. Craftsmen produce figures of Gods, Goddesses, jewel boxes, small gift items etc. Sandalwood powder and sandalwood oil is also available. Inlay work on rosewood is also popular. Things like teapoys, coffee tables and other items of furniture are made. The best place to buy these things is the Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium of the Karnataka Handicrafts Development Corporation.

Besides these items Mysore is also famous for Agarbathies or incense sticks. A large variety of incense sticks are manufactured by small and large manufactures. It is manufactured here using locally available perfumes like sandalwood and jasmine and the exported for Mysore and Bangalore to the rest of the world. Mysore is famous for its stone carvings and paintings as well. Oil based and water based paintings are famous. A branch of the traditional Mysore painting known as Ganjifa paintings that flourished under the patronage of Krishnaraja Wodeyar III has been revived. These paintings are of Hindu gods and goddesses. The best place to get all these items is the Government Handicrafts emporium in Mysore.