Family togetherness is always something I cherish, regardless the avenue. But there is just something about enjoying time together outdoors. The fresh air rejuvenates us, and the wide open spaces reflect in our wide open conversations.

There are so many ways to enjoy the fresh air. Something as simple as a badminton net or croquet set can provide old fashioned outdoor family fun. You can also grab a screened shelter for bug-free fresh air and enjoy school outside. Family bike rides, park play dates, or just lawn chairs set up for an informal gathering can turn a normal day into a delightfully rejuvenating day.

When you add in a good meal, the delight of being outdoors only grows. My family enjoys grilling and eating outside together. So, recently we purchased some patio furniture to facilitate that enjoyment. We spend hours upon hours grilling, eating, and spending time together outside! Even when we aren’t grilling, we love assembling cold salads to enjoy on a warm day as we enjoy one another’s company outdoors.

Enjoying the fresh air doesn’t have to be a major ordeal. But, a little effort can go a long way toward making memories together in the spring and summer!

Our patio furniture purchase was an intentional action, giving us an excuse to take the time to enjoy one another’s company. Throwing a blanket in the car to use for a pre-ball game picnic is another simple, but intentional action that allows you to enjoy some together time in the fresh air.

The beautiful thing about eating and spending time together outside is that it tends to draw others in. As wonderful as it can be to gather around the dining room table, there is something about picnic or cookout that is a little less intimidating to new friends. Invite someone new to join you now and then. Who knows? You might make a new lifelong friend even while making family memories.

If you make a cookout or even a picnic an elaborate ordeal, you’ll rob the enjoyment and won’t be likely to repeat the experience very often. To make sure it stays simple, check on your patio furniture or picnic spot regularly to make sure it’s clean, tidy, and ready for enjoyment. Keep dishes on hand that transfer outdoors easily. Make sure that picnic blanket stays handy. Keep a bug light or other unobtrusive insect repellent accessible.

Don’t just talk about enjoying a meal outdoors. Be faithful to do it. Work it into your seasonal menu planning, scheduling meals that will work well for outdoor enjoyment. Keep ingredients on hand that can easily be tossed on the grill or assembled as an outdoor meal so you can be ready for unexpected company or an unseasonably cool or warm day that begs to be enjoyed.

We’re always quick to send our children outdoors for fresh air and to work off some energy. But, outdoor time together is great for the whole family. So, clean up your patio furniture or grab the picnic blanket and head outside!