Treat Mom – Localicious

Treat Mom to a Peaceful Picnic in the Backyard or a Beautiful North State Spot

I think we can agree that moms appreciate not having to cook or clean on Mother’s Day. It’s no surprise that it’s popular to take mom out for her favorite meal on her special day. But, with eating out at crowded restaurants wisely off-limits during the COVID-19 health pandemic, what can you do to celebrate mom? Treat mom to a peaceful picnic.

Your family will be able to enjoy fresh air, beautiful scenery, listen to the sounds of nature, and eat good food, all while maintaining social distancing and celebrating mom, maybe even in your own backyard.

Never planned a picnic before? Here are some things to consider.

Somewhere to Put Your Goods

I have an old picnic basket, a hand-me-down from my mom. I like to take it because it’s roomy. I can fit almost everything we need inside. There are other options and choices for carriers, including insulated picnic baskets or your kids’ regular lunch bags, with a freezer pack to keep things fresh. You don’t need a fancy picnic basket. If you’re going to eat your picnic a couple of hours after packing it, you don’t even need a freezer pack.

Something to Sit On

Any blanket will do—something to keep your bottoms dry and big enough for everyone to sit on, plus a little room to lay out the food. Use an old quilt or try a water-resistant picnic blanket that folds up small. With social distancing a real factor right now, you might consider bringing a blanket or towel for each family member.

Drinks

Be sure to bring plenty of water for everyone. If your destination is a little more adventurous, pack an extra bottle or two. Make it extra special by bringing sparkling cider. Recyclable paper cups are light and easy to toss in the picnic basket.

Napkins or Wet Wipes

Bring something to clean up with before, during, and after. Cloth, washable napkins are a smart choice.

Food

When you’re deciding what to put in your picnic basket, consider foods that can survive a little jostling. Skip the pears, peaches and easily bruised fruits. I like to keep it simple and make an appetizer spread. I include foods each family member will enjoy. Sliced cheeses, deli meats, crackers, pickles, cut-veggie sticks, grapes and apples work well together and can be eaten as finger foods. Remember to pack some of mom’s favorites.

Treats

End the picnic on a sweet note. A few pieces of nice chocolate will do the trick rather than a whole cake.

Bug Spray

This may seem frivolous, but too many annoying bugs can ruin a good picnic. Bring along some bug spray or natural bug deterrent to reduce pests and bug bites.
Backyard picnics are sweet! But when it’s safe to leave home, we have some recommendations for picnic spots that will offer new scenery. Being mindful of social distancing requirements, here are a few places where you and your family might enjoy a picnic in May or any day.

Destinations

• Butte County – Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. Wildflower lovers come from all over to witness and photograph the colorful display of blooms and majestic waterfalls that cover the landscape. Every time we go, I feel like I’m walking in a painting. Bring a camera! Be sure to get CDFW Lands Passes for family members over 16 years before you go. A valid California hunting or fishing license will also grant you access.
• Glenn County – Plaskett Meadows. Day use areas are available and offer a chance to get out of town and appreciate the Mendocino National Forest.
• Tehama County – Yana Trailhead. This is a great location if you have a family with some members who like to hike and some who prefer to fish by the pond.
• Shasta County – Castle Crags State Park. The Root Creek Trail is ADA accessible and has beautiful views of the crags and Mount Shasta.
• Siskiyou County – Lake Siskiyou. You do not have to hike far for awesome views here. Get a day pass and set up your picnic on the beach. Enjoy truly breathtaking views of Mount Shasta. Again, bring the camera.

Talk with your family and decide when and where you want to take mom for a peaceful picnic in our beautiful Northern California. Grab a few blankets and some tasty food you know she’ll love and enjoy a beautiful day outside together.