Picnic in the Park

We finally had a week where the temps were in the normal "summer" range, as opposed to 115 degree weather we had been living with.  So we decided to celebrate by having a picnic at a nearby state park.  It was so lovely to be outside in the fresh air.  Since it's been so hot this summer, we have spent far too much time inside, so we were all a little happy to be outside, or "side" as Lucy calls it!

I had packed us a dinner the night before and once we were off work, we all headed to the park.  We played at a small playground for awhile and then set a huge sheet on the ground in a shady area.  We feasted on a Quinoa and Orzo Pesto Pasta Salad, olives, chips and dip, and some lovely Peach Tomato and Mozzarella Crostinis.  They were delish!  And other than the occasional ant, it was perfect!

Once our bellies were full we headed home and played outside some more.  Plus, since all the work had been done the night before there was minimal clean up.  Now, that's my kind of night!  We finally (finally!) got Lucy to sleep and then I relaxed on the couch with a crisp glass of wine.  Oh, how I love summertime.

Swinging like a big girl!

So pretty!

Our feast

Eating up

Peach Tomato Mozzarella Crostini

Source:  Joy the Baker

Ingredients

1 baguette, sliced and toasted with olive oil

Fresh ripe peaches, sliced thin

Fresh garden tomatoes, sliced thin

Fresh mozzarella, patted dry and sliced thin

Fresh basil, sliced into thin strands

Salt and pepper

Balsamic vinegar

Directions

Top each toasted baguette with a slice of peach, tomato and mozzarella and then a second slice of peach.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Top with basil and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.  Enjoy!