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.