Plan Yourself a Sweet Picnic

Finally: food. This is why God invented gourmet-to-go. Visit your nearest Whole Foods(WFMI Quote) or upscale grocery, buy whatever delicious items you find, lock them in a clamshell container and you're ready for that blanket. Grab a cup or two while you're at it; even I have to draw the line at swigging wine directly from the bottle.

If you want to prepare your own food, stick with foods that were meant for picnicking. No salads with dressing, no funky brie cheese, no messy or fussy foods.

For uncomplicated luxury, try lobster rolls (recipe below). Bring the buns and lobster salad separately; assemble when you're ready to eat. Bring cut up fruit (blueberries, melon, pineapple) and toothpicks, or vegetable crudite with hummus. Want some dessert? Forage for a fresh, local and seasonal treat: Find an ice cream vendor.

Less muss, no fuss and there's still room in your picnic sack for a book of poetry. Remember, an activity that takes longer to plan than enjoy will rarely be enjoyed as planned. Make it easy on yourself, and have fun.

Lobster Rolls
Serves two

1 1/2 cups loosely packed lobster meat
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 top-split hot dog potato rolls, toasted if you can
Your favorite potato chips, for serving

1. In a medium bowl, combine lobster meat, mayonnaise, celery, chives and mustard. Toss lightly to combine; avoid breaking up the lobster meat. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. Divide the lobster salad among buns; serve with your favorite potato chips