Impromptu picnics. Sharing something you made at home with others, sometimes total strangers. Lingering a little longer than usual. These are the things of summer, and when you just can't bear to host a gathering inside your house any longer, it's time to take it outdoors and onto the blanket. It's time for a picnic club.

Basically a picnic club requires you (or someone else directing the club) to send invitations to friends and family to meet at a certain location with a towel, flatware, and something to pass around and share. I first read about the idea on Cup of Joe a few years back and it's really stuck with me. You could bring something as simple as sliced watermelon or more of a complex salad or dessert. I remember Tea from Tea and Cookies writing about Flashmob Picnics, a gathering of folks in a shared location with the pretense of lounging and sharing a bit of lunch together. Bring your own blanket. Bring your own utensils. Leave the computer and phone at home.

A Few Favorite Picnic Dishes:
• Tuna Nicoise Sandwich - Martha Stewart
• Tuscan Kale Salad - 101 Cookbooks
• Gazpacho - Ina Garten
• Baked Artichoke Squares - Shutterbean
• Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies - Dana Treat

Related: Party Menu: A Spring Picnic in Pink and Green

(Image: Elizabeth Passarella)