June 19, 2025
🥖 🥗 Picnic with Friends - The Slow Life Stories - Bedtime Stories for Adults - Calming Stories for Grownups and All Ages
Welcome to The Slow Life - A village filled with cozy stories for everyone. This story is called Picnic with Friends, and it’s about an interesting suggestion, the satisfying ritual of packing for a picnic, and the sweetest of centrepieces.
🇨🇦 These stories are written, edited and narrated by Jennifer Zwicker.
~~~~
Benefits of listening to cozy stories or adult bedtime stories with The Slow Life:
1. Relaxation and Stress Relief
• You want to unwind after a stressful day.
• The gentle pacing, soothing tone, and comforting narratives help calm your mind and body.
2. Help Falling Asleep
• Many people use bedtime stories as a sleep aid. We’ve been told ours help.
• A calming story distracts from anxious or racing thoughts, making it easier to drift off. Especially with a second reading as we have, because you already know what happens.
3. Comfort and Nostalgia
• You’re looking for the emotional safety and warmth that often comes with familiar or gently imaginative stories.
• Cozy stories can evoke fond childhood memories or a sense of being cared for.
4. Escape and Imagination
• A peaceful story can provide a gentle escape from reality without overstimulation.
• Listeners enjoy being transported to a calm village, a peaceful garden, or a quaint and cozy inn.
5. Mindfulness and Presence
• The slow, descriptive nature of cozy storytelling encourages a mindful focus on the present.
• It can be a form of meditative listening, grounding you, the listener, in sensory details and slow pacing.
6. Companionship and Connection
• Perhaps, for people who live alone or feel lonely, a narrator’s voice can feel like friendly company.
• It’s a quiet, non-demanding form of social presence.
🧡 Bedtime stories for grown ups
🧡 Bedtime stories for kids
🧡 Meditation story
Picnic with Friends is a story about a picnic in the park with friends. We each bring something yummy to eat and to drink. There is beauty, there is comfort. It may help put you to sleep. Calming stories to help you sleep. Relieve anxiety.
⚠️ Take care listening while driving or doing any activity that requires your full attention.
- All stories - Copyright Jennifer Zwicker 2024, 2025
1
00:00:02,009 --> 00:00:07,620
Welcome to The Slow Life, a
village filled with cozy stories
2
00:00:07,630 --> 00:00:12,810
for everyone.
I'll read this story 2 times to
3
00:00:12,820 --> 00:00:17,530
help you zone out or even fall
asleep during the second
4
00:00:17,540 --> 00:00:23,250
reading.
This story is called Picnic with
5
00:00:23,260 --> 00:00:28,570
Friends, and it's about an
interesting suggestion, the
6
00:00:28,580 --> 00:00:34,110
satisfying ritual of packing for
a picnic, and the sweetest of
7
00:00:34,120 --> 00:00:41,360
centerpieces.
It's the day of our picnic that
8
00:00:41,370 --> 00:00:44,440
some friends and I had planned
weeks ago.
9
00:00:45,720 --> 00:00:49,630
My niece arrived again this
morning to help me put the
10
00:00:49,640 --> 00:00:55,290
finishing touches of fruit and
whipped cream on to the Pavlova
11
00:00:55,300 --> 00:00:59,920
we successfully made together
over the last two days.
12
00:01:01,540 --> 00:01:05,970
I had told my friends that I
would bring along a dessert that
13
00:01:05,980 --> 00:01:09,180
would surprise and hopefully
delight them.
14
00:01:10,400 --> 00:01:15,600
Thankfully it turned out just as
it was pictured and described in
15
00:01:15,610 --> 00:01:20,810
the recipe we found, not even
knowing what this treat was the
16
00:01:20,820 --> 00:01:24,150
day prior to trying our hand at
making it.
17
00:01:25,660 --> 00:01:30,690
My niece has other plans for the
rest of the day, but as we'd
18
00:01:30,700 --> 00:01:35,110
made 2 so that we could taste
test from one of them, she
19
00:01:35,120 --> 00:01:40,130
carefully loads the second
masterpiece into her car to take
20
00:01:40,140 --> 00:01:45,360
home to share with others.
I thank her for the interesting
21
00:01:45,370 --> 00:01:50,160
suggestion and of course, for
helping to make it happen in
22
00:01:50,170 --> 00:01:56,110
time for our lunch in the park.
I turned back to the island
23
00:01:56,280 --> 00:02:01,330
where the crown jewel sits like
a cloud, topped with glossy
24
00:02:01,340 --> 00:02:04,270
whipped cream and glistening
fruit.
25
00:02:05,720 --> 00:02:11,030
I keep it on the cake stand as
it has a cover that seals it in
26
00:02:11,039 --> 00:02:14,520
well enough for the short trip
to the park.
27
00:02:15,600 --> 00:02:20,690
Most of my other packing is done
as I didn't want this dessert to
28
00:02:20,700 --> 00:02:23,610
sit for too long before being
eaten.
29
00:02:24,880 --> 00:02:30,160
I check the fancy roll of
napkins the dishes for myself,
30
00:02:30,260 --> 00:02:35,650
as we'll each have our own.
The small bottle of lemonade
31
00:02:35,660 --> 00:02:40,230
from the market is ice cold and
I've remembered to put the
32
00:02:40,240 --> 00:02:44,930
bottle opener in.
Thank goodness a knife to cut
33
00:02:44,940 --> 00:02:48,520
into the dessert is safely
packed in as well.
34
00:02:49,790 --> 00:02:55,910
It's a satisfying ritual, this
gathering of items, a quick way
35
00:02:55,920 --> 00:03:00,010
to check things as complete on
your list for the day.
36
00:03:01,280 --> 00:03:06,020
Outside, the sun is high and the
bit of breeze carries the
37
00:03:06,030 --> 00:03:11,230
lightest hint of cut grass and
lilacs taking their turn to
38
00:03:11,240 --> 00:03:15,900
bloom.
The cake stand has a wide base
39
00:03:15,990 --> 00:03:21,250
and the basket holding the rest
of my supplies locks it in place
40
00:03:21,260 --> 00:03:23,870
to keep it sturdy on the car
floor.
41
00:03:25,200 --> 00:03:30,270
The drive to the park is short
and I take it very slowly to
42
00:03:30,280 --> 00:03:36,130
keep our sweet creations safe.
Other folks are owed around on
43
00:03:36,140 --> 00:03:41,660
this beautiful spring day.
The bicycle lanes and paths are
44
00:03:41,670 --> 00:03:44,560
being used and appreciated by
all.
45
00:03:45,860 --> 00:03:48,750
Once I've parked there isn't
fair to walk.
46
00:03:49,490 --> 00:03:53,860
I see two of my friends are
there, lounging at the picnic
47
00:03:53,870 --> 00:03:58,780
table they've chosen.
They sit surrounded by willows,
48
00:03:58,790 --> 00:04:05,280
tendrils swaying gently near the
water, a perfect shaded spot by
49
00:04:05,290 --> 00:04:09,770
the small river.
They wave happily when they see
50
00:04:09,780 --> 00:04:13,810
me running over to help me with
my delicate package.
51
00:04:14,950 --> 00:04:19,829
It's a beautiful spot wherein
speckled with sunlight peeking
52
00:04:19,839 --> 00:04:24,630
through with the river curving
around the edge and the grass
53
00:04:24,640 --> 00:04:29,040
soft with butter.
Cups a duck through the willows
54
00:04:29,050 --> 00:04:32,660
branches and set the basket on
the table.
55
00:04:32,980 --> 00:04:37,920
Then pause to drop my shoulders
and look around at where we are
56
00:04:37,990 --> 00:04:43,250
in relaxation.
One of them has already laid out
57
00:04:43,320 --> 00:04:48,770
a classic checkered tablecloth
and the other is cutting slices
58
00:04:48,780 --> 00:04:53,720
of homemade brown bread.
There's the thermos of coffee
59
00:04:53,730 --> 00:04:59,120
between them and a cloth covered
plate they tell me is cheese and
60
00:04:59,130 --> 00:05:04,920
herbs scones.
I arrange my things, enjoying
61
00:05:04,930 --> 00:05:10,440
the process, starting with the
unfurling of two quilts over the
62
00:05:10,450 --> 00:05:16,040
bench seats for comfort.
Shortly after, our other friend
63
00:05:16,050 --> 00:05:21,560
arrives, waving with one hand
and balancing a round tin under
64
00:05:21,570 --> 00:05:25,490
the other arm.
As promised, she's brought
65
00:05:25,500 --> 00:05:31,440
something warm from the oven.
We say our hellos, and she tells
66
00:05:31,450 --> 00:05:36,080
us it's a tray of roasted
vegetable tartlets, smelling
67
00:05:36,090 --> 00:05:38,830
richly of thyme and sweet
pepper.
68
00:05:40,220 --> 00:05:45,350
We rearrange the table to make
room, every one nudging plates
69
00:05:45,360 --> 00:05:49,390
and baskets and bottles until it
looks like a meal.
70
00:05:49,680 --> 00:05:55,560
A springtime feast, really.
We take our seats, ready to
71
00:05:55,570 --> 00:06:00,130
sample what's in front of us.
We each take a little of
72
00:06:00,140 --> 00:06:03,980
everything, layering flavours on
small plates.
73
00:06:04,740 --> 00:06:10,110
Someone produces a jar of olives
they'd almost forgotten they had
74
00:06:10,300 --> 00:06:16,560
another, a bowl of cherries.
With everything set, we open our
75
00:06:16,570 --> 00:06:20,780
individual drinks.
We've provided mine the bottle
76
00:06:20,790 --> 00:06:26,040
of lemonade, still cold as
desired, and we toast with the
77
00:06:26,050 --> 00:06:31,460
clinking of mismatched bottles
and mugs to this picnic we're so
78
00:06:31,470 --> 00:06:36,900
lucky to be having together.
The conversation flows
79
00:06:36,910 --> 00:06:42,380
immediately afterwards, carried
along by the refilling of plates
80
00:06:42,710 --> 00:06:46,740
and jars and other dishes passed
across the table.
81
00:06:48,190 --> 00:06:52,680
Eventually, we decide to save
room for the dessert course.
82
00:06:53,090 --> 00:06:58,280
We sip our drinks and even play
a game of cards, working around
83
00:06:58,290 --> 00:07:00,650
the array of goodies on the
table.
84
00:07:01,720 --> 00:07:06,810
Just a couple of simple games,
nothing with too much strategy.
85
00:07:06,980 --> 00:07:12,480
As today is about keeping things
light, now it's time for
86
00:07:12,490 --> 00:07:17,610
something sweet.
I reach for the Pavlova and
87
00:07:17,620 --> 00:07:22,590
place it in the middle of it all
with care, lifting the glass
88
00:07:22,600 --> 00:07:26,880
cover, revealing it like a
magician's final trick.
89
00:07:28,100 --> 00:07:31,680
The others lean forward, almost
in unison.
90
00:07:32,560 --> 00:07:37,610
I explained briefly how my niece
and I made it together, how the
91
00:07:37,620 --> 00:07:42,270
meringue whipped into glossy
peaks, how we layered the fruit
92
00:07:42,360 --> 00:07:47,510
with careful hands.
There's an appreciative pause,
93
00:07:47,620 --> 00:07:50,010
followed by whispers of
interest.
94
00:07:51,010 --> 00:07:56,080
Then they're reaching for plates
again, spoons tapping softly,
95
00:07:56,270 --> 00:08:01,240
the first cut breaking through
crisp meringue to the soft,
96
00:08:01,250 --> 00:08:05,970
marshmallowy centre as bytes are
taken.
97
00:08:06,210 --> 00:08:09,280
The verdict is immediate and
unanimous.
98
00:08:09,690 --> 00:08:12,910
It's the most interesting thing
on the table.
99
00:08:14,120 --> 00:08:17,390
One friend makes a quiet,
pleased sound.
100
00:08:17,920 --> 00:08:21,710
Another is already talking about
her second slice.
101
00:08:21,760 --> 00:08:27,050
When this one is finished, I
feel a quiet warmth rising
102
00:08:27,060 --> 00:08:30,940
inside me, a soft note of
satisfaction.
103
00:08:31,870 --> 00:08:36,400
Not just that it tastes good,
but that's something made with
104
00:08:36,409 --> 00:08:40,159
so much joy is now being shared
with others.
105
00:08:41,539 --> 00:08:47,070
I make an unnecessary mental
note to tell my niece how well
106
00:08:47,080 --> 00:08:53,110
it went over, and I can already
picture her delight that our
107
00:08:53,120 --> 00:08:57,350
laughter and pride in the
kitchen carried in to this
108
00:08:57,360 --> 00:09:02,570
moment Here under the Willow
trees beside the river.
109
00:09:07,080 --> 00:09:15,730
Picnic with Friends It's the day
of our picnic that some friends
110
00:09:15,740 --> 00:09:21,160
and I had planned weeks ago.
My niece arrived again this
111
00:09:21,170 --> 00:09:26,000
morning to help me put the
finishing touches of fruit and
112
00:09:26,010 --> 00:09:31,360
whipped cream on to the Pavlova
we successfully made together
113
00:09:31,410 --> 00:09:37,120
over the last two days.
I had told my friends that I
114
00:09:37,130 --> 00:09:41,720
would bring along a dessert that
would surprise and hopefully
115
00:09:41,770 --> 00:09:46,650
delight them.
Thankfully it turned out just as
116
00:09:46,660 --> 00:09:52,030
it was pictured and described in
the recipe we found, not even
117
00:09:52,040 --> 00:09:56,930
knowing what this treat was the
day prior to trying our hand at
118
00:09:56,940 --> 00:10:01,610
making it.
My niece has other plans for the
119
00:10:01,620 --> 00:10:06,430
rest of the day, but as we'd
made 2 so that we could taste
120
00:10:06,440 --> 00:10:10,590
test from one of them, she
carefully loads the second
121
00:10:10,600 --> 00:10:15,420
masterpiece into her car to take
home to share with others.
122
00:10:16,710 --> 00:10:21,660
I thank her for the interesting
suggestion and of course, for
123
00:10:21,670 --> 00:10:25,910
helping to make it happen in
time for our lunch in the park.
124
00:10:27,480 --> 00:10:32,590
I turned back to the island
where the crown jewel sits like
125
00:10:32,600 --> 00:10:37,250
a cloud, topped with glossy
whipped cream and glistening
126
00:10:37,260 --> 00:10:42,040
fruit.
I keep it on the cake stand as
127
00:10:42,050 --> 00:10:47,160
it has a cover that seals it in
well enough for the short trip
128
00:10:47,170 --> 00:10:51,970
to the park.
Most of my other packing is done
129
00:10:52,080 --> 00:10:56,610
as I didn't want this dessert to
sit for too long before being
130
00:10:56,620 --> 00:11:00,430
eaten.
I check the fancy roll of
131
00:11:00,440 --> 00:11:05,710
napkins the dishes for myself,
as we'll each have our own.
132
00:11:07,010 --> 00:11:12,340
The small bottle of lemonade
from the market is ice cold and
133
00:11:12,350 --> 00:11:15,240
I've remembered to put the
bottle opener in.
134
00:11:15,370 --> 00:11:20,520
Thank goodness a knife to cut
into the dessert is safely
135
00:11:20,530 --> 00:11:26,080
packed in as well.
It's a satisfying ritual, this
136
00:11:26,090 --> 00:11:32,020
gathering of items, a quick way
to check things as complete on
137
00:11:32,030 --> 00:11:37,680
your list for the day.
Outside, the sun is high and the
138
00:11:37,690 --> 00:11:42,440
bit of breeze carries the
lightest hint of cut grass and
139
00:11:42,450 --> 00:11:45,320
the lilacs taking their turn to
bloom.
140
00:11:46,620 --> 00:11:51,750
The cake stand has a wide base
and the basket holding the rest
141
00:11:51,760 --> 00:11:56,810
of my supplies locks it in place
to keep it sturdy on the car
142
00:11:56,820 --> 00:12:01,000
floor.
The drive to the park is short
143
00:12:01,210 --> 00:12:06,050
and I take it very slowly to
keep our sweet creations safe.
144
00:12:07,290 --> 00:12:11,540
Other folks are owed around on
this beautiful spring day.
145
00:12:12,330 --> 00:12:17,630
The bicycle lanes and paths are
being used and appreciated by
146
00:12:17,640 --> 00:12:21,260
all.
Once they've parked there, isn't
147
00:12:21,270 --> 00:12:26,700
far to walk, I see two of my
friends are there, lounging at
148
00:12:26,710 --> 00:12:32,300
the picnic table they've chosen.
They sit surrounded by willows,
149
00:12:32,310 --> 00:12:38,800
tendrils swaying gently near the
water, a perfect shaded spot by
150
00:12:38,810 --> 00:12:43,300
the small river.
They wave happily when they see
151
00:12:43,310 --> 00:12:47,330
me running over to help me with
my delicate package.
152
00:12:48,480 --> 00:12:53,360
It's a beautiful spot wherein
speckled with sunlight peeking
153
00:12:53,370 --> 00:12:58,160
through with the river curving
around the edge and the grass
154
00:12:58,170 --> 00:13:02,560
soft with butter.
Cups a duck through the willows
155
00:13:02,570 --> 00:13:06,180
branches and set the basket on
the table.
156
00:13:06,530 --> 00:13:11,440
Then pause to drop my shoulders
and look around at where we are
157
00:13:11,510 --> 00:13:16,780
in relaxation.
One of them has already laid out
158
00:13:16,850 --> 00:13:22,300
a classic checkered tablecloth
and the other is cutting slices
159
00:13:22,310 --> 00:13:27,240
of homemade brown bread.
There's the thermos of coffee
160
00:13:27,250 --> 00:13:32,660
between them and a cloth covered
plate they tell me is cheese and
161
00:13:32,670 --> 00:13:38,450
herbs scones.
I arrange my things, enjoying
162
00:13:38,460 --> 00:13:43,970
the process, starting with the
unfurling of two quilts over the
163
00:13:43,980 --> 00:13:49,570
bench seats for comfort.
Shortly after, our other friend
164
00:13:49,580 --> 00:13:55,080
arrives, waving with one hand
and balancing a round tin under
165
00:13:55,090 --> 00:13:59,010
the other arm.
As promised, she's brought
166
00:13:59,020 --> 00:14:04,970
something warm from the oven.
We say our hellos, and she tells
167
00:14:04,980 --> 00:14:09,590
us it's a tray of roasted
vegetable tartlets, smelling
168
00:14:09,600 --> 00:14:12,350
richly of thyme and sweet
pepper.
169
00:14:13,760 --> 00:14:18,880
We rearrange the table to make
room, every one nudging plates
170
00:14:18,890 --> 00:14:22,930
and baskets and bottles until it
looks like a meal.
171
00:14:23,220 --> 00:14:29,100
A springtime feast, really.
We take our seats, ready to
172
00:14:29,110 --> 00:14:33,670
sample what's in front of us.
We each take a little of
173
00:14:33,680 --> 00:14:37,500
everything, layering flavours on
small plates.
174
00:14:38,280 --> 00:14:43,650
Someone produces a jar of olives
they'd almost forgotten they had
175
00:14:43,820 --> 00:14:50,090
another, a bowl of cherries.
With everything set, we open our
176
00:14:50,100 --> 00:14:54,310
individual drinks.
We've provided mine the bottle
177
00:14:54,320 --> 00:14:59,570
of lemonade, still cold as
desired, and we toast with the
178
00:14:59,580 --> 00:15:04,990
clinking of mismatched bottles
and mugs to this picnic we're so
179
00:15:05,000 --> 00:15:10,430
lucky to be having together.
The conversation flows
180
00:15:10,440 --> 00:15:15,910
immediately afterwards, carried
along by the refilling of plates
181
00:15:16,240 --> 00:15:20,270
and jars and other dishes passed
across the table.
182
00:15:21,730 --> 00:15:26,220
Eventually, we decide to save
room for the dessert course.
183
00:15:26,610 --> 00:15:31,800
We sip our drinks and even play
a game of cards, working around
184
00:15:31,810 --> 00:15:34,170
the array of goodies on the
table.
185
00:15:35,260 --> 00:15:40,340
Just a couple of simple games,
nothing with too much strategy.
186
00:15:40,520 --> 00:15:46,010
As today is about keeping things
light, now it's time for
187
00:15:46,020 --> 00:15:51,130
something sweet.
I reach for the Pavlova and
188
00:15:51,140 --> 00:15:56,110
place it in the middle of it all
with care, lifting the glass
189
00:15:56,120 --> 00:16:00,410
cover, revealing it like a
magician's final trick.
190
00:16:01,630 --> 00:16:05,210
The others lean forward, almost
in unison.
191
00:16:06,090 --> 00:16:11,140
I explained briefly how my niece
and I made it together, how the
192
00:16:11,150 --> 00:16:15,800
meringue whipped into glossy
peaks, how we layered the fruit
193
00:16:15,870 --> 00:16:21,030
with careful hands.
There's an appreciative pause,
194
00:16:21,140 --> 00:16:23,540
followed by whispers of
interest.
195
00:16:24,530 --> 00:16:29,600
Then they're reaching for plates
again, spoons tapping softly,
196
00:16:29,810 --> 00:16:34,760
the first cut breaking through
crisp meringue to the soft,
197
00:16:34,770 --> 00:16:39,490
marshmallowy centre as bytes are
taken.
198
00:16:39,740 --> 00:16:42,810
The verdict is immediate and
unanimous.
199
00:16:43,220 --> 00:16:46,450
It's the most interesting thing
on the table.
200
00:16:47,650 --> 00:16:50,860
One friend makes a quiet,
pleased sound.
201
00:16:51,450 --> 00:16:55,240
Another is already talking about
her second slice.
202
00:16:55,290 --> 00:17:00,580
When this one is finished, I
feel a quiet warmth rising
203
00:17:00,590 --> 00:17:04,470
inside me, a soft note of
satisfaction.
204
00:17:05,390 --> 00:17:09,920
Not just that it tastes good,
but that's something made with
205
00:17:09,930 --> 00:17:13,680
so much joy is now being shared
with others.
206
00:17:15,069 --> 00:17:20,599
I make an unnecessary mental
note to tell my niece how well
207
00:17:20,609 --> 00:17:26,640
it went over, and I can already
picture her delight that our
208
00:17:26,650 --> 00:17:30,880
laughter and pride in the
kitchen carried in to this
209
00:17:30,890 --> 00:17:34,520
moment.
Here under the Willow trees
210
00:17:34,590 --> 00:17:40,430
beside the river.
I wish you sweet dreams.
00:00:02,009 --> 00:00:07,620
Welcome to The Slow Life, a
village filled with cozy stories
2
00:00:07,630 --> 00:00:12,810
for everyone.
I'll read this story 2 times to
3
00:00:12,820 --> 00:00:17,530
help you zone out or even fall
asleep during the second
4
00:00:17,540 --> 00:00:23,250
reading.
This story is called Picnic with
5
00:00:23,260 --> 00:00:28,570
Friends, and it's about an
interesting suggestion, the
6
00:00:28,580 --> 00:00:34,110
satisfying ritual of packing for
a picnic, and the sweetest of
7
00:00:34,120 --> 00:00:41,360
centerpieces.
It's the day of our picnic that
8
00:00:41,370 --> 00:00:44,440
some friends and I had planned
weeks ago.
9
00:00:45,720 --> 00:00:49,630
My niece arrived again this
morning to help me put the
10
00:00:49,640 --> 00:00:55,290
finishing touches of fruit and
whipped cream on to the Pavlova
11
00:00:55,300 --> 00:00:59,920
we successfully made together
over the last two days.
12
00:01:01,540 --> 00:01:05,970
I had told my friends that I
would bring along a dessert that
13
00:01:05,980 --> 00:01:09,180
would surprise and hopefully
delight them.
14
00:01:10,400 --> 00:01:15,600
Thankfully it turned out just as
it was pictured and described in
15
00:01:15,610 --> 00:01:20,810
the recipe we found, not even
knowing what this treat was the
16
00:01:20,820 --> 00:01:24,150
day prior to trying our hand at
making it.
17
00:01:25,660 --> 00:01:30,690
My niece has other plans for the
rest of the day, but as we'd
18
00:01:30,700 --> 00:01:35,110
made 2 so that we could taste
test from one of them, she
19
00:01:35,120 --> 00:01:40,130
carefully loads the second
masterpiece into her car to take
20
00:01:40,140 --> 00:01:45,360
home to share with others.
I thank her for the interesting
21
00:01:45,370 --> 00:01:50,160
suggestion and of course, for
helping to make it happen in
22
00:01:50,170 --> 00:01:56,110
time for our lunch in the park.
I turned back to the island
23
00:01:56,280 --> 00:02:01,330
where the crown jewel sits like
a cloud, topped with glossy
24
00:02:01,340 --> 00:02:04,270
whipped cream and glistening
fruit.
25
00:02:05,720 --> 00:02:11,030
I keep it on the cake stand as
it has a cover that seals it in
26
00:02:11,039 --> 00:02:14,520
well enough for the short trip
to the park.
27
00:02:15,600 --> 00:02:20,690
Most of my other packing is done
as I didn't want this dessert to
28
00:02:20,700 --> 00:02:23,610
sit for too long before being
eaten.
29
00:02:24,880 --> 00:02:30,160
I check the fancy roll of
napkins the dishes for myself,
30
00:02:30,260 --> 00:02:35,650
as we'll each have our own.
The small bottle of lemonade
31
00:02:35,660 --> 00:02:40,230
from the market is ice cold and
I've remembered to put the
32
00:02:40,240 --> 00:02:44,930
bottle opener in.
Thank goodness a knife to cut
33
00:02:44,940 --> 00:02:48,520
into the dessert is safely
packed in as well.
34
00:02:49,790 --> 00:02:55,910
It's a satisfying ritual, this
gathering of items, a quick way
35
00:02:55,920 --> 00:03:00,010
to check things as complete on
your list for the day.
36
00:03:01,280 --> 00:03:06,020
Outside, the sun is high and the
bit of breeze carries the
37
00:03:06,030 --> 00:03:11,230
lightest hint of cut grass and
lilacs taking their turn to
38
00:03:11,240 --> 00:03:15,900
bloom.
The cake stand has a wide base
39
00:03:15,990 --> 00:03:21,250
and the basket holding the rest
of my supplies locks it in place
40
00:03:21,260 --> 00:03:23,870
to keep it sturdy on the car
floor.
41
00:03:25,200 --> 00:03:30,270
The drive to the park is short
and I take it very slowly to
42
00:03:30,280 --> 00:03:36,130
keep our sweet creations safe.
Other folks are owed around on
43
00:03:36,140 --> 00:03:41,660
this beautiful spring day.
The bicycle lanes and paths are
44
00:03:41,670 --> 00:03:44,560
being used and appreciated by
all.
45
00:03:45,860 --> 00:03:48,750
Once I've parked there isn't
fair to walk.
46
00:03:49,490 --> 00:03:53,860
I see two of my friends are
there, lounging at the picnic
47
00:03:53,870 --> 00:03:58,780
table they've chosen.
They sit surrounded by willows,
48
00:03:58,790 --> 00:04:05,280
tendrils swaying gently near the
water, a perfect shaded spot by
49
00:04:05,290 --> 00:04:09,770
the small river.
They wave happily when they see
50
00:04:09,780 --> 00:04:13,810
me running over to help me with
my delicate package.
51
00:04:14,950 --> 00:04:19,829
It's a beautiful spot wherein
speckled with sunlight peeking
52
00:04:19,839 --> 00:04:24,630
through with the river curving
around the edge and the grass
53
00:04:24,640 --> 00:04:29,040
soft with butter.
Cups a duck through the willows
54
00:04:29,050 --> 00:04:32,660
branches and set the basket on
the table.
55
00:04:32,980 --> 00:04:37,920
Then pause to drop my shoulders
and look around at where we are
56
00:04:37,990 --> 00:04:43,250
in relaxation.
One of them has already laid out
57
00:04:43,320 --> 00:04:48,770
a classic checkered tablecloth
and the other is cutting slices
58
00:04:48,780 --> 00:04:53,720
of homemade brown bread.
There's the thermos of coffee
59
00:04:53,730 --> 00:04:59,120
between them and a cloth covered
plate they tell me is cheese and
60
00:04:59,130 --> 00:05:04,920
herbs scones.
I arrange my things, enjoying
61
00:05:04,930 --> 00:05:10,440
the process, starting with the
unfurling of two quilts over the
62
00:05:10,450 --> 00:05:16,040
bench seats for comfort.
Shortly after, our other friend
63
00:05:16,050 --> 00:05:21,560
arrives, waving with one hand
and balancing a round tin under
64
00:05:21,570 --> 00:05:25,490
the other arm.
As promised, she's brought
65
00:05:25,500 --> 00:05:31,440
something warm from the oven.
We say our hellos, and she tells
66
00:05:31,450 --> 00:05:36,080
us it's a tray of roasted
vegetable tartlets, smelling
67
00:05:36,090 --> 00:05:38,830
richly of thyme and sweet
pepper.
68
00:05:40,220 --> 00:05:45,350
We rearrange the table to make
room, every one nudging plates
69
00:05:45,360 --> 00:05:49,390
and baskets and bottles until it
looks like a meal.
70
00:05:49,680 --> 00:05:55,560
A springtime feast, really.
We take our seats, ready to
71
00:05:55,570 --> 00:06:00,130
sample what's in front of us.
We each take a little of
72
00:06:00,140 --> 00:06:03,980
everything, layering flavours on
small plates.
73
00:06:04,740 --> 00:06:10,110
Someone produces a jar of olives
they'd almost forgotten they had
74
00:06:10,300 --> 00:06:16,560
another, a bowl of cherries.
With everything set, we open our
75
00:06:16,570 --> 00:06:20,780
individual drinks.
We've provided mine the bottle
76
00:06:20,790 --> 00:06:26,040
of lemonade, still cold as
desired, and we toast with the
77
00:06:26,050 --> 00:06:31,460
clinking of mismatched bottles
and mugs to this picnic we're so
78
00:06:31,470 --> 00:06:36,900
lucky to be having together.
The conversation flows
79
00:06:36,910 --> 00:06:42,380
immediately afterwards, carried
along by the refilling of plates
80
00:06:42,710 --> 00:06:46,740
and jars and other dishes passed
across the table.
81
00:06:48,190 --> 00:06:52,680
Eventually, we decide to save
room for the dessert course.
82
00:06:53,090 --> 00:06:58,280
We sip our drinks and even play
a game of cards, working around
83
00:06:58,290 --> 00:07:00,650
the array of goodies on the
table.
84
00:07:01,720 --> 00:07:06,810
Just a couple of simple games,
nothing with too much strategy.
85
00:07:06,980 --> 00:07:12,480
As today is about keeping things
light, now it's time for
86
00:07:12,490 --> 00:07:17,610
something sweet.
I reach for the Pavlova and
87
00:07:17,620 --> 00:07:22,590
place it in the middle of it all
with care, lifting the glass
88
00:07:22,600 --> 00:07:26,880
cover, revealing it like a
magician's final trick.
89
00:07:28,100 --> 00:07:31,680
The others lean forward, almost
in unison.
90
00:07:32,560 --> 00:07:37,610
I explained briefly how my niece
and I made it together, how the
91
00:07:37,620 --> 00:07:42,270
meringue whipped into glossy
peaks, how we layered the fruit
92
00:07:42,360 --> 00:07:47,510
with careful hands.
There's an appreciative pause,
93
00:07:47,620 --> 00:07:50,010
followed by whispers of
interest.
94
00:07:51,010 --> 00:07:56,080
Then they're reaching for plates
again, spoons tapping softly,
95
00:07:56,270 --> 00:08:01,240
the first cut breaking through
crisp meringue to the soft,
96
00:08:01,250 --> 00:08:05,970
marshmallowy centre as bytes are
taken.
97
00:08:06,210 --> 00:08:09,280
The verdict is immediate and
unanimous.
98
00:08:09,690 --> 00:08:12,910
It's the most interesting thing
on the table.
99
00:08:14,120 --> 00:08:17,390
One friend makes a quiet,
pleased sound.
100
00:08:17,920 --> 00:08:21,710
Another is already talking about
her second slice.
101
00:08:21,760 --> 00:08:27,050
When this one is finished, I
feel a quiet warmth rising
102
00:08:27,060 --> 00:08:30,940
inside me, a soft note of
satisfaction.
103
00:08:31,870 --> 00:08:36,400
Not just that it tastes good,
but that's something made with
104
00:08:36,409 --> 00:08:40,159
so much joy is now being shared
with others.
105
00:08:41,539 --> 00:08:47,070
I make an unnecessary mental
note to tell my niece how well
106
00:08:47,080 --> 00:08:53,110
it went over, and I can already
picture her delight that our
107
00:08:53,120 --> 00:08:57,350
laughter and pride in the
kitchen carried in to this
108
00:08:57,360 --> 00:09:02,570
moment Here under the Willow
trees beside the river.
109
00:09:07,080 --> 00:09:15,730
Picnic with Friends It's the day
of our picnic that some friends
110
00:09:15,740 --> 00:09:21,160
and I had planned weeks ago.
My niece arrived again this
111
00:09:21,170 --> 00:09:26,000
morning to help me put the
finishing touches of fruit and
112
00:09:26,010 --> 00:09:31,360
whipped cream on to the Pavlova
we successfully made together
113
00:09:31,410 --> 00:09:37,120
over the last two days.
I had told my friends that I
114
00:09:37,130 --> 00:09:41,720
would bring along a dessert that
would surprise and hopefully
115
00:09:41,770 --> 00:09:46,650
delight them.
Thankfully it turned out just as
116
00:09:46,660 --> 00:09:52,030
it was pictured and described in
the recipe we found, not even
117
00:09:52,040 --> 00:09:56,930
knowing what this treat was the
day prior to trying our hand at
118
00:09:56,940 --> 00:10:01,610
making it.
My niece has other plans for the
119
00:10:01,620 --> 00:10:06,430
rest of the day, but as we'd
made 2 so that we could taste
120
00:10:06,440 --> 00:10:10,590
test from one of them, she
carefully loads the second
121
00:10:10,600 --> 00:10:15,420
masterpiece into her car to take
home to share with others.
122
00:10:16,710 --> 00:10:21,660
I thank her for the interesting
suggestion and of course, for
123
00:10:21,670 --> 00:10:25,910
helping to make it happen in
time for our lunch in the park.
124
00:10:27,480 --> 00:10:32,590
I turned back to the island
where the crown jewel sits like
125
00:10:32,600 --> 00:10:37,250
a cloud, topped with glossy
whipped cream and glistening
126
00:10:37,260 --> 00:10:42,040
fruit.
I keep it on the cake stand as
127
00:10:42,050 --> 00:10:47,160
it has a cover that seals it in
well enough for the short trip
128
00:10:47,170 --> 00:10:51,970
to the park.
Most of my other packing is done
129
00:10:52,080 --> 00:10:56,610
as I didn't want this dessert to
sit for too long before being
130
00:10:56,620 --> 00:11:00,430
eaten.
I check the fancy roll of
131
00:11:00,440 --> 00:11:05,710
napkins the dishes for myself,
as we'll each have our own.
132
00:11:07,010 --> 00:11:12,340
The small bottle of lemonade
from the market is ice cold and
133
00:11:12,350 --> 00:11:15,240
I've remembered to put the
bottle opener in.
134
00:11:15,370 --> 00:11:20,520
Thank goodness a knife to cut
into the dessert is safely
135
00:11:20,530 --> 00:11:26,080
packed in as well.
It's a satisfying ritual, this
136
00:11:26,090 --> 00:11:32,020
gathering of items, a quick way
to check things as complete on
137
00:11:32,030 --> 00:11:37,680
your list for the day.
Outside, the sun is high and the
138
00:11:37,690 --> 00:11:42,440
bit of breeze carries the
lightest hint of cut grass and
139
00:11:42,450 --> 00:11:45,320
the lilacs taking their turn to
bloom.
140
00:11:46,620 --> 00:11:51,750
The cake stand has a wide base
and the basket holding the rest
141
00:11:51,760 --> 00:11:56,810
of my supplies locks it in place
to keep it sturdy on the car
142
00:11:56,820 --> 00:12:01,000
floor.
The drive to the park is short
143
00:12:01,210 --> 00:12:06,050
and I take it very slowly to
keep our sweet creations safe.
144
00:12:07,290 --> 00:12:11,540
Other folks are owed around on
this beautiful spring day.
145
00:12:12,330 --> 00:12:17,630
The bicycle lanes and paths are
being used and appreciated by
146
00:12:17,640 --> 00:12:21,260
all.
Once they've parked there, isn't
147
00:12:21,270 --> 00:12:26,700
far to walk, I see two of my
friends are there, lounging at
148
00:12:26,710 --> 00:12:32,300
the picnic table they've chosen.
They sit surrounded by willows,
149
00:12:32,310 --> 00:12:38,800
tendrils swaying gently near the
water, a perfect shaded spot by
150
00:12:38,810 --> 00:12:43,300
the small river.
They wave happily when they see
151
00:12:43,310 --> 00:12:47,330
me running over to help me with
my delicate package.
152
00:12:48,480 --> 00:12:53,360
It's a beautiful spot wherein
speckled with sunlight peeking
153
00:12:53,370 --> 00:12:58,160
through with the river curving
around the edge and the grass
154
00:12:58,170 --> 00:13:02,560
soft with butter.
Cups a duck through the willows
155
00:13:02,570 --> 00:13:06,180
branches and set the basket on
the table.
156
00:13:06,530 --> 00:13:11,440
Then pause to drop my shoulders
and look around at where we are
157
00:13:11,510 --> 00:13:16,780
in relaxation.
One of them has already laid out
158
00:13:16,850 --> 00:13:22,300
a classic checkered tablecloth
and the other is cutting slices
159
00:13:22,310 --> 00:13:27,240
of homemade brown bread.
There's the thermos of coffee
160
00:13:27,250 --> 00:13:32,660
between them and a cloth covered
plate they tell me is cheese and
161
00:13:32,670 --> 00:13:38,450
herbs scones.
I arrange my things, enjoying
162
00:13:38,460 --> 00:13:43,970
the process, starting with the
unfurling of two quilts over the
163
00:13:43,980 --> 00:13:49,570
bench seats for comfort.
Shortly after, our other friend
164
00:13:49,580 --> 00:13:55,080
arrives, waving with one hand
and balancing a round tin under
165
00:13:55,090 --> 00:13:59,010
the other arm.
As promised, she's brought
166
00:13:59,020 --> 00:14:04,970
something warm from the oven.
We say our hellos, and she tells
167
00:14:04,980 --> 00:14:09,590
us it's a tray of roasted
vegetable tartlets, smelling
168
00:14:09,600 --> 00:14:12,350
richly of thyme and sweet
pepper.
169
00:14:13,760 --> 00:14:18,880
We rearrange the table to make
room, every one nudging plates
170
00:14:18,890 --> 00:14:22,930
and baskets and bottles until it
looks like a meal.
171
00:14:23,220 --> 00:14:29,100
A springtime feast, really.
We take our seats, ready to
172
00:14:29,110 --> 00:14:33,670
sample what's in front of us.
We each take a little of
173
00:14:33,680 --> 00:14:37,500
everything, layering flavours on
small plates.
174
00:14:38,280 --> 00:14:43,650
Someone produces a jar of olives
they'd almost forgotten they had
175
00:14:43,820 --> 00:14:50,090
another, a bowl of cherries.
With everything set, we open our
176
00:14:50,100 --> 00:14:54,310
individual drinks.
We've provided mine the bottle
177
00:14:54,320 --> 00:14:59,570
of lemonade, still cold as
desired, and we toast with the
178
00:14:59,580 --> 00:15:04,990
clinking of mismatched bottles
and mugs to this picnic we're so
179
00:15:05,000 --> 00:15:10,430
lucky to be having together.
The conversation flows
180
00:15:10,440 --> 00:15:15,910
immediately afterwards, carried
along by the refilling of plates
181
00:15:16,240 --> 00:15:20,270
and jars and other dishes passed
across the table.
182
00:15:21,730 --> 00:15:26,220
Eventually, we decide to save
room for the dessert course.
183
00:15:26,610 --> 00:15:31,800
We sip our drinks and even play
a game of cards, working around
184
00:15:31,810 --> 00:15:34,170
the array of goodies on the
table.
185
00:15:35,260 --> 00:15:40,340
Just a couple of simple games,
nothing with too much strategy.
186
00:15:40,520 --> 00:15:46,010
As today is about keeping things
light, now it's time for
187
00:15:46,020 --> 00:15:51,130
something sweet.
I reach for the Pavlova and
188
00:15:51,140 --> 00:15:56,110
place it in the middle of it all
with care, lifting the glass
189
00:15:56,120 --> 00:16:00,410
cover, revealing it like a
magician's final trick.
190
00:16:01,630 --> 00:16:05,210
The others lean forward, almost
in unison.
191
00:16:06,090 --> 00:16:11,140
I explained briefly how my niece
and I made it together, how the
192
00:16:11,150 --> 00:16:15,800
meringue whipped into glossy
peaks, how we layered the fruit
193
00:16:15,870 --> 00:16:21,030
with careful hands.
There's an appreciative pause,
194
00:16:21,140 --> 00:16:23,540
followed by whispers of
interest.
195
00:16:24,530 --> 00:16:29,600
Then they're reaching for plates
again, spoons tapping softly,
196
00:16:29,810 --> 00:16:34,760
the first cut breaking through
crisp meringue to the soft,
197
00:16:34,770 --> 00:16:39,490
marshmallowy centre as bytes are
taken.
198
00:16:39,740 --> 00:16:42,810
The verdict is immediate and
unanimous.
199
00:16:43,220 --> 00:16:46,450
It's the most interesting thing
on the table.
200
00:16:47,650 --> 00:16:50,860
One friend makes a quiet,
pleased sound.
201
00:16:51,450 --> 00:16:55,240
Another is already talking about
her second slice.
202
00:16:55,290 --> 00:17:00,580
When this one is finished, I
feel a quiet warmth rising
203
00:17:00,590 --> 00:17:04,470
inside me, a soft note of
satisfaction.
204
00:17:05,390 --> 00:17:09,920
Not just that it tastes good,
but that's something made with
205
00:17:09,930 --> 00:17:13,680
so much joy is now being shared
with others.
206
00:17:15,069 --> 00:17:20,599
I make an unnecessary mental
note to tell my niece how well
207
00:17:20,609 --> 00:17:26,640
it went over, and I can already
picture her delight that our
208
00:17:26,650 --> 00:17:30,880
laughter and pride in the
kitchen carried in to this
209
00:17:30,890 --> 00:17:34,520
moment.
Here under the Willow trees
210
00:17:34,590 --> 00:17:40,430
beside the river.
I wish you sweet dreams.
