September is glorious (a warm low sun, the air crisp at twilight, my schedule still easy). I find it the ideal time to have picnics. Even though in August there outdoor movies and lots of evenings by the lake, there are also mosquito's, and BBQ. Only now I am in the mood, picnicS for me have to be a little bit more rustic, rugged and romantic
, like fall. Now that I am in the mood for road trips, long walks along the woods, evenings on the lawn with my hamper in tow.
We have been travelling to Italy constantly, and although our car is comfortable, our dream is to find a nice VW California, and be able to skip the rest stops, and AGIP station food. Every time we are on the road, we already look out for perfect spots where we could park in the future, and enjoy the view over the vineyards or sea, drinking our own tea, and eating our own lunch.
I have a big Fortnum and Mason picnic basket, but I realized that a lot missing, and an old throw and plastic plates are not going to cut it anymore. So I have been making a list of picnic essentials, and are slowly adding to my hamper.
I have been scouring Etsy for vintage car plaids, lace to throw over them and cheery tin plates by Nascho and Daher.
And although I really enjoy opening a beer on a random surface, it is time for nice enamel cutlery and elegant bottle openers.
Maybe the reason I love picnics in fall, is that it is so much more cosy, like camping in fall, warming your hands on your cup, steam coming from your thermos. And for keeping your food warm these stacked typical Indian containers are ideal.
Stay tuned for some of my favorite picnic recipes, tomorrow. But for now, nothing like a good snack, a strong cup of tea with lots of honey and a great bottle of San Giovese.
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