Sunkissed

The sun has finally shown itself and the temperature has begun to rise….could it finally be Summer? It is amazing how the blue sky and the sparkling of sunshine can instantly improve your mood and make it close to impossible to not be happy. And as the forecast shows the dramatic increase in temperature over the next five days, it is time (finally!!!) to think about hitting the beach.

A day at the beach requires little planning, but much packing. And I don’t mean just the sunscreen and towels, I mean the cooler. It is important to stay hydrated, snacks between walks and water activities and a good lunch to carry everyone through the afternoon. The food and drinks can really make or break the day.

Fruit is always a given. Fresh, juicy, crisp and cold fruit can help keep you hydrated and satisfied with the freshness and coolness you crave on a hot day. Another favorite, especially with kids, is yogurt. GoGurts, if you didn’t know already, are freezable. Keep GoGurts in the freezer and throw them in the cooler when you head out. They can help keep thinks cool and will thaw in not time to be ready for the mid-morning snack. And, not just for kids, Chobani makes the Greek yogurt tubes too; so enjoyable for all ages. Cool, refreshing, filling and protein packed…perfect.

And then, the all important lunch. There are the traditional standbys like sandwiches, but remember the sand, sometimes finger foods can be, well, sandy. That said, a nice salad, cold grilled meat, or a nice cold tortellini toss that you eat with a fork is the way to go. And following lunch, provided you have packed appropriately, the only thing you should need for the rest of the day is a beverage or two until you pack up.

And from there, you are good to go until the stop on the way home for ice cream….bliss!