Have you ever had your eye on those wine picnic basketsthat are displayed so prominently in grocery and department stores? The ones lined with gingham fabric, with built-in straps, that often include pocket space for a tablecloth, napkins, wine glasses, corkscrews, and other picnic necessities? Many include a miniature cutting board and cheese cutters, as well as plates and forks. A few even come with insulated pouches for bottles of wine. Such baskets can range in price anywhere from $40 to $200, and seem to be perfect for a cheerful romantic outing.

Well, they are both fun, and romantic. There's something about an old-fashioned picnic basket that really sets a fun mood. The more traditional wicker baskets with two flaps that lift up to reveal the picnic packed with are more attractive and nostalgic, and hold more, but can get heavy. The ones that are inside a backpack might be more comfortable if you are planning to hike to your picnic spot.

Filling wine picnic baskets leaves you with a wide array of menu choices. The traditional picnic of fried chicken, potato salad and fruit is always a hit. If you want to get more creative you could include things such as cheese and bread (don't forget the knife), fresh strawberries, a bottle of wine (remember the corkscrew) and some gourmet chocolate. If you like the simple picnic you could bring ready made sandwiches or you could bring the supplies to build your own unique sandwich including such items as cold cuts, bread and tomatoes. Pack them separately to preserve their freshness.

Brrr its cold outside, and you want to do something special for your significant other for Valentine's Day. A great gift idea is the wine picnic baskets that are available. Look in to renting a secluded cabin in the woods, if it has a fireplace you could cozy up to roaring fire, light several candles, put blankets down and spread out the picnic on the floor. What could be more romantic?

You don't have to be limited to Valentine's Day. One year the kids and I took my husband on a Father's Day picnic at the Princeton Battlefield. The kids could run around to their heart's content, while my husband and I sliced cheese for one another. We brought both a bottle of wine, and a bottle of grape juice, so the kids could drink from the wine glasses, too.

It is necessary to know what else can be taken on the picnic. This depends on the age and type of people who are going. If there are children, a ball and a Frisbee are very good.If a person is alone, a valentines gift, flowers and an engagement ring that can be kept inside, and is fun.