Writer

Tony Karanja 

Contributor

Hannah Randa

Guest Writer

Carole Kimutai

Waithera Mbuthia

By Limo Taboi (Bankelele)

Boniface Mwalii

Dancun Orondo

Kwame Akinyi

Chef Zilpah 

Guest Writer 

Ramah Nyang

Contributor 

Tiffany Writer

Randa

Nancy Akinyi

Leonard Okonta 

Abigail Arunga

Editor, The Picnic Site

Cheryl Otieno

Guest Writer, Mother's Delight Winner

Joyce Charlette

Tuzo Jonathan

Ashwaq Yasin

Claudia Pillay 

Publication

Bloomberg

Founder, Editor and Writer

Mercy Randa

Best of gaming

Safarirally.co.ke

Manu Molo

Safari Rally Writer

Douglas Muriithi

Kimberly Jones 

Anubhav Garg

The list

Ndugu Abisai

Michael Muyoma 

Cloy Ololo

Sharon Gwada

Michael Muyoma.

Playdates give your kids a chance to interact with their age-mates while learning some social skills including turn-taking and conflict resolutions. Choosing the right outfit for your kids is as crucial as picking their playdate partners. It would be best if you determined whether the clothes are stretchy enough, washable, comfortable and not forgetting stylish. With the numerous clothing options and great deals available today, you can go beyond the basic jeans and t-shirt style. Here are some tips to guide you through:<ol start="1"> <li>Choose functional clothes</li></ol>It might be tempting to dress your kids in fancy clothes,and as much as they will look great, the clothes might not be functional for play. It will be best if you pick some laid-back casual outfits that aren't overly fancy. For instance, you can opt for soft cotton, which prevents excessive sweating. Also, ensure that the length is excellent to avoid injuries in case the kid trips.<ol start="2"> <li>Choose comfortable clothes.</li></ol>Pick clothes flexible enough to enable your child to cross their legs or climb over a frame. Avoid too slippery fabrics that restrict your kids from crawling, standing, or moving comfortably on smooth surfaces. You may also need to ensure that you fasten the belts and shorts adequately to prevent them from continually falling, which can be a nuisance.<ol start="3"> <li>Consider the weather</li></ol>If it's cold, dress up your kid in lots of layers and thick jackets. You can consider a waterproof outer layer for the rain. In the hotsummer, look for loose pants, skirts or dresses. Also ensure the clothes are absorbent to absorb the sweat.<ol start="4"> <li>Colors</li></ol>Avoid too bright colors that can stain easily. Dress your child to get dirty, since play-especially outdoor involves getting into dirt.Bright colors will restrict the child, as they are afraid of getting dirty, and you may also need to keep changing the outfits.<ol start="5"> <li>Pick strong fabrics</li></ol>You need to shop for clothing that can hold up to several years of cleaning without wearing. Natural fabrics are always the best option for every occasion. Cotton is a good idea, since it is comfortable. Khaki bottoms are also a good sport.We will keep giving you more tips on ensuring your kids have the best fun. Enjoy and keep safe.&nbsp;‍

What to consider when picking an outfit for your kid’s playdate

It has been one heck of a year - thanks to COVID-19.When the pandemic finally got to Kenya in March 2020, we had to stop and drop everything. This has never happened to me in my lifetime. Covid-19 interrupted my hectic schedule that had turned me into a robot. The pandemic made me realize things I had taken for granted – freedom of movement being one of them. Adjusting to the new normal was not as easy as I thought.I was not alone. My friend Sonia Birdi was struggling as well. Her hot yoga studio at Two Rivers closed. Due to the strict Covid-19 health guidelines, gatherings in closed spaces had been forbidden.Mid this year, I paid Sonia a visit at her home. It was a nice sunny day and we sat outside under a tree enjoying the cool breeze. We talked and reflected about life and how the virus had interrupted our lives. I had taken to recycling bottles as a way to stay “sane” while Sonia dedicated her time to helping boys at Mukuru Promotion Centre (MPC).Since early in the year, she has been running yoga and meditation sessions with teenage boys. Most of them are former street urchins who are under rehabilitation. “In the new norm, we have to learn to be extra thoughtful and careful. I have learnt it’s about time we changed the way we give in society. Teach them how to fish,” she told me.Fast forward to December 2020... I saw a video on Facebook shared by a friend. It was a beer yoga session. Immediately it gave me an idea. “Sonia, can we pull this off?” I asked on WhatsApp. “Why not?” Sonia responded. “I will call you,” I said. Several phone calls later, we had a date, poster and a beautiful venue by the poolside.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc21337f5de9e187ce9787_1.jpg" height="auto" width="auto"> Many of my friends thought I was joking. Being Christmas season, we agreed we were going to do a beer yoga charity event to benefit the awesome boys of MPC. Entry fee was donations in cash and kind towards the MPC.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc2166b1a9873264cd3628_2.jpg" height="auto" width="auto"> The sun was out it all its glory. We stretched and sipped our drinks by the poolside. We are truly grateful to the Board of Sikh Union Club for agreeing to support this worthy cause.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc219f3325e94b59b141f7_4.jpg" height="auto" width="auto"> And what a day it was. We had about 15 people attending the two and a half hour session. Some had never tried yoga before but there was space for the regulars and first-timers. They came with donations, their yoga mats and a drink.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc2250f2c6020bf606dc32_7.jpg"> Look out for more tipsy yoga events in 2021. If you love the outdoors, make sure you join us.<img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdc2293d41db41b33866ae0_6.jpg"> &nbsp;‍

Christmas Giving: Tipsy Yoga for Charity 

The Leleshwa wine tour is not your typical wine tour. It is more like a wine farm walkabout, but one that fills you with great pride just knowing that in under 30 years, it will make it to Kenya's already decorated tourism destinations’ list.&nbsp; If you are familiar with the wine business, then you will appreciate that the wine business is not for the faint-hearted. This is an investment that requires more than just the huge capital that goes into starting it up. It also takes an insurmountable amount of patience - a rare virtue in entrepreneurs in Kenya. And even with this, its take-off and survival is still not guaranteed.&nbsp; I say this because I do not want you to compare the Leleshwa wine farm walkabout with your Stellenbosch, Franschoek or Groot Constancia experience. That wouldn’t be fair. Some of these vineyards have been around for centuries. In fact, Groot Constatncia has been around for a record 332 years.&nbsp; With that understanding, we set out on a walkabout to the famed homegrown Leleshwa Vineyard, situated at the Morendat farm in Naivasha, it is about a 2-hours drive from Nairobi by road and approximately 95 kilometres from the city. The tours are held annually between October and December. The tour fully depends on the frequency of bookings. From our booking experience, it is evident that the interest is growing and soon we may have to book months in advance.&nbsp; The tour starts at 10:00am. This means that you have to factor in your travel time especially if you are joining in from out of town. It is prudent to layer your clad as the sun peels off fairly fast. Pick sneakers over boots. You might need your sun hat and sunglasses; the scarf has no rules. Pack light, it is not that kind of a trek. The team provides drinking water and that’s a litre or so, off your luggage.&nbsp; In terms of what to expect, you will start with the beef farm. Lots of pedigree beef…sorry, cows. It is just difficult not to view the live animals as plated. My friend Esther only had visions of the handbags the hides these would produce. She has an eye.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1875px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdbaecdaf50450fe3cf20e4_tou.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure> Next we went to the actual vineyard. About 4,000 acres of in total.&nbsp; Our most treasured lesson for the day was that there is a stark difference between table grapes and wine grapes. What this means is that you cannot make wine from your everyday grocery grapes. This got me wondering if I can make cider from my table apples.&nbsp;We also learnt that for the first time, Leleshwa will bring to market the Chenin Blanc which has been in the making for 4 years. From what we sampled, the Chenin Blanc has so much potential to win some international awards.&nbsp; <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1875px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fdbaf68fcc9fc9ca276fb77_Blanc.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure> Leleshwa is also testing for Malbec. The vines have a few more months to harvest. So be on the lookout for a bottle of Leleshwa Malbec (2021) at your W&amp;S. And with all the experience, knowledge, resources and ready market, I am not putting the likelihood of a Leleshwa Gin and Leleshwa Vodka too far out.&nbsp; If you are looking for a slightly different experience than the wine farm walkabout, they should be harvesting in Q1 of 2021. Hopefully they can open up the harvesting experience to the public. We are told the harvesting starts at 3:00am in the morning. So you can plan around this. For bookings, write to winetours@kenyanut.com. The cost is 10,000/- per person and this covers an all light breakfast, a post walkabout 3-course meal paired with bottomless wine.

Leleshwa wine tour... not your ordinary wine tour

We’ve all been in a catch 22situation where you are invited to an occasion but you legit have no idea what drink to bring along. It could be a picnic, romantic date, birthday party, <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/swap-the-restaurant-brunch-for-a-diy-backyard-brunch">cook-out</a> or just a game-night. Sometimes you just want to try a new recipe and wondering which the best wine to use is. Kiss the dilemma goodbye because we understand your struggle and we went looking for the ultimate solution for you.We got talking to a sommelier from Wines of the World. Here they’re all about amazing wines and affordable prices. They are also very generous with all the information they have in matters wine. So here is how our amazing conversation went. TPS: For how long have you been in Kenya now?Sommelier: For seven years now.TPS: From your experience, what exactly do Kenyans like to drink?Sommelier: &nbsp;Kenyans love dry, medium bodied wines that are smooth for the palate. They love wines that are not so tannic. Basically smooth, refreshing, easy to drink wines. TPS: Do they for example buy wine from like a certain hemisphere?Sommelier: Kenyans buy South African wine more than wine from anywhere else in the world. Number two is Spain. We are talking about volume business and quality wine. Kenyans’ knowledge is growing and are now buying wines from, Italy, France etc. Consumers are appreciating new and good wines. Their palate is growing and getting very good, like the European type. TPS: What are you drinking? (He was holding a glass half-filled with wine)Sommelier: Right now, I’m drinking, Arnegi criantha, from Spain (he walks to show us the bottle). It is very good wine and one that has won one of the best nominations in Spain. Earlier in Spain when the wine was made, they were taught by the French people to make good wine. TPS: (Referring to his wine) what food did you match it with? Sommelier: Lamb! Mbuzi.TPS: How would you make the Mbuzi? What seasoning would you use?Sommelier: Mbuzi Choma would be okay, but any type of add up style spice would be okay. We can put some ginger, cumin etc.. would match perfectly with this. TPS: Say you’re going out on a romantic date with your partner, at the park. What sort of wine would you bring? Sommelier: (Looking a bit concerned) that’s always the problem because we are in the times of gender equality. So the Champagne is the better option for both. TPS: What Champagne’s do you have here? Sommelier: (Walking across the tavern to where the Champagnes are).. We have the great MCC (méthode cap classique) from South Africa. We can’t call it Champagne because it’s not coming from France but it’s equally the same quality. For the price quality, it’s just perfect for your date because it will match with all the types of food you’ll have. It is very versatile and matches with any type of food. TPS: We noticed for this one (referring to the MCC), it has…. Which means it’s dry so it’s a mix of red and white grapes?Sommelier: Yeah.. exactly! Champagne and méthode which the typical one which is being used to make sparkling wine has brut which means it has from0-6 grams of sugar per bottle. Then you can have demi-sec Champagne will have a higher sugar content. Right now were having only brut in Kenya but shortly, in about two weeks we are gonna have the demi-sec and sec which is a little bit sweeter – but still matching with all types of foods. TPS: What kind of Champagne are Kenyans buying? Sommelier: Kenyans are buying Moet a lot and Belaire. Brands that we don’t distribute but that are very popular. But right now, Graham Beck ,I would say is one of the favourites for Kenyans- It is really selling in all the places. But also, most of the time Kenyans tend to go to the a little bit sweeter side of the Champagne, so here at Wines of the world we have Maison Castel, which is a nice Champagne, semi- sweet, beautiful and very romantic and you can take it with ice in case you feel it’s very hot. TPS: In case we are going for a family cook-out, and they say, bring a bottle of something. What should we take? Having in mind they are cooking a lot of chicken, Nyama Choma. Lots of Mbuzi Choma.Sommelier: I would say, &nbsp;bring whites and reds. But if you want to go with one wine, just go with a Rosé.TPS: What Rosés do we have here?&nbsp;Sommelier: We have Barefoot rosé from the United States. Goes for a thousand shillings on retail, very affordable and the quality of this wine is exceptional. The Waterford would be another option, from South Africa, and is one of my favourites. It’s made from red grapes and goes pretty much with any type of food. TPS: In case we are trying out a new recipe,.. we are making Risotto with wine. We also want to have some wine with the meal later. What should I buy?Sommelier: I would advise you to buy the same wine you are going to drink with your Risotto.TPS: Which one would you recommend? Sommelier: If you want to make some nice Risotto with an affordable wine, one that you can drink and also have with your food, I would easily go with Roche Mazet from France we retail at around nine hundred shillings. It is affordable, but the quality is amazing. I personally prefer cooking with chardonnay than Sauvignon because it is more dry and transmits more acidity and a better feeling. Yeah! So there you heard it from the expert! We are sure you now know better on what drink to bring to your next occasion courtesy of these life-changing tips. &nbsp;‍

Different wines for different occasions!! Kenyans pallets is evolving fast ~ Juan Gambil, WoW Beverages

We all agree on two things:&nbsp;First, the Covid19 pandemic has hit us hard, some harder than most.&nbsp;There are those who have not been able to spend quality time as a family because of geographical challenges posed by the extended lockdowns and travel restrictions.&nbsp;Others have lost big time: with massive job losses, reduced salaries and collapsed businesses. Second, Mother’s Day holds a special significance, as the day set apart to celebrate mothers and mother-figures.&nbsp;I can almost successfully predict that come Sunday, many of us will forwarding a beautiful message or e-card to mothers in our contact list – mainly on WhatsApp, on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.&nbsp;Those not too mechanical may actually pick up their phones and call that all-important lady and wish her “Happy Mother’s Day”.&nbsp;That is all good – but without a doubt, a little effort and creativity will go a long way in making this year’s Mother’s Day a heart-warming experience for the Mothers in our lives.Our Top 5 Quick Wins for Mother’s Day: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Flowers, Chocolate and WineThere’s something magical that happens with the Deliveryman drops in with a floral bouquet and gift hamper.&nbsp;Create that magic for your mother or the mother-figure in your life – include a personal and thoughtful note.&nbsp;Nothing warms Mother’s heart than an act of love on her special day.&nbsp;If you are not able to present these to her in person, take advantage of trusted florists and gift companies that offer amazing deals and reliable delivery services. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Personalised giftAll our mothers have that special ‘kikoi’ or scarf. It is hard to find a mother without one in her bag. Those things are lifesavers – and yes, Mother knows best! It’s interesting how at the first sense of a slight draft, Mother dear will whip out that piece of cloth, and tenderly wrap it around a young child, or offer it to anyone in close proximity suffering the discomfort of the evening wind.Wouldn’t it be a great and practical gift for her this Mother’s Day? A personalized fleece-lined kikoi blanket, or a flowery woolen or silk pashmina, with her name, intricately and discretely embroidered?Another idea is to get her a hooded sweater and have her name, or ‘Queen’ embroidered on it. You can take this to her, or have it delivered. Either way, her day is made. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;E-cardOne of the benefits of improved technology is easy communication. A personalised ecard for mum is a good idea. You can write the message, include photos or videos. Then share this via WhatsApp, or mail. Reading your sweet message will definitely make her day.&nbsp;Stretch your creative juices and give Mother an extra special message, not the ‘forwards’ that we have all become so adept at sharing. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FoodWe all love some good food, especially made by our mothers. On this Mother’s Day you can let her take a break and treat her instead. Start her day with breakfast in bed (we have a few inspirations for you on our Cookbook). Make her favourite lunch or dinner.&nbsp;If it’s practical, serve her outdoors – on the lawn or patio.&nbsp;If you live in a high rise complex, it wouldn’t heart if you could explore setting up a picnic on the roof top – of course, only if it is practical and safe…remember, we don’t want the wind blowing off Mama’s fancy hat, or giving her the chills. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Spa dayTreat her to a day at the spa. She can get a massage, a scrub, manicure, and pedicure. Get one that suits your budget. There are many offers around for this special day. Let her relax from all the hard work of bringing you up, no?We would love to hear from you – other creative ideas, planned or previously done.&nbsp;Remember, we are all in this together – celebrating our mothers in style.

large_Happy.jpg

medium_Happy.jpg

small_Happy.jpg

thumbnail_Happy.jpg

Happy.jpg

5 Ways To Creatively Celebrate Mother’s Day This Year

Kids love experimenting, and you can always have them in the kitchen with you setting up different recipes for different occasions. You can have them help you create a picnic menu for your upcoming picnic. Food, drinks and snacks that the whole family would enjoy having during the picnic then create them. Once you are set on the menu they can even have special names for the meals. &nbsp;Below are some ideas for picnic meals suitable for the kidsChewy Honey Granola BarsThese simple yet delicious bars have the sweetness from the honey, chewiness from the raisins, hints of chocolate and cinnamon,and a bit of crunch. They freeze well and act as a healthy snack option, too. Mini milkshakesThere is nothing better than a perfect milkshake. Luckily, making one at home is extremely easy and your kids can even help you make some. Try making these cute mini milkshakes for your family picnic. You can go ahead and be extra by adding three flavours to suit everyone. You could try oreo, banana, strawberry or even mango and blueberry.Pizza pocketsYou can opt-out the usual large pizza boxes by making your pizzas completely portable by folding them into tasty little pockets filled with ingredients inside. They are not only delicious but they make an ideal picnic lunch for the kids. Homemade SubwayReady to eat sandwiches are always the norm at home, mom or dad gets in the kitchen, quickly whips up a sandwich, packs it and voila ready to eat. Why not try something different for your upcoming picnic with the kids? How about making-your-own buffet with different ingredients suchas salami, lettuce, tomatoes, ham and the likes for the kids to be able to choose according to their liking. Fried chicken fingersIn case eating chicken off the bone is challenging for the little ones you could opt for chicken tenders. You can use your usual fried chicken recipe or if you don't have any you can try the KFC.You can add some flavour to them by dipping them in honey or barbecue sauce alternatively you can pack aside little one's favourite tomato sauce or ketchup and for you, some chilli, just don't let the kids eat the chill if they can't handle the spiciness. Healthy Fruit popsicles Making homemade fruit popsicles is a fun way for kids and adults to experiment in the kitchen. It’s also an easy way to add more nutrients to your day without using refined sugar. You and your kids can decide on one or even 3 different flavours that you would like to add to your picnic menu, it could be a peach strawberry yoghurt popsicle, minty watermelon popsicle and an orange mango coconut popsicle. They are an easy and refreshing treat to help you cool down from the heat given the fact that you and your family will be out in the sun for most of the day. LemonadesA big satisfying gulp of cold, freshly squeezed lemonade is all your kids need to beat the heat while outside enjoying the picnic. They are a refreshing summer drink and also easy to make. Also, another advantage is that you are not only limited to lemons. You can use other fruits such as watermelons, strawberries, raspberries, peaches and any other of your liking. Pro tip: skip the sugar and use honey instead. SamosasHonestly, samosas are one of the tastiest go-to snacks to be ever invented. You can choose to fill it with any savoury of your choice. There is no limit when it comes to the fillings after all that's what makes the samosa. However, making the samosa pockets can be quite a task but the good thing is that you can always buy them from your local supermarkets. To add fun to the process, the kids can help you fill in the pockets. When packing them don't forget your sliced lemons, those two marry well. ‍

Eight kid-approved picnic meals

The Jacaranda Propaganda. You’ve probably heard about it or come across the Hashtag Jacaranda Propaganda (#JacaradaPropaganda) on Social Media. Better yet, you may have spotted the purple Jacaranda flowers shining in the sun and littering the ground in your neighborhood. Yes, the#JacarandaPropaganda is about nature showing off through blooming Jacarandas. In Kenya, they bloom in September through to late September.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1342px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fa74f64eabba48a3f2c044e_2.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Jacarandas are an exotic blessing that was left behind by the British at the end of their colonial rule of the country and by extension, Africa. As such, they are mostly found in areas previously occupied by whites-you will not spot a Jacaranda tree in the wild. You’ll spot Jacaranda’s in Kenya's urban areas of Nairobi, Nakuru, Nanyuki, Nyeri, Kiambu, Limuru, Tigoni, Murang'a, Timau, Eldoret, Kakamega, Naivasha, Kisumu and everywhere else the British settled or administered in the early-mid 1900s.Jacarandas are attributed to Allan Cunningham, a British explorer and botanist who introduced this ornamental tree into the British psyche. The breed was then exported to Rhodesia, and then spread across the rest of the British colony in Africa. Across the continent, in the former colonies of Britain, #JacarandaPropaganda is something people look forward to.&nbsp;In South Africa for example, in Pretoria, there are an estimated70,000 jacaranda trees that bloom in spring every year. This has earned the city Jacaranda City moniker. Here, you will even spot the rare white Jacarandas. On Herbert Baker Street in Groenkloof, there are about one hundred rare white Jacarandas. Annually, in October, hundreds of Japanese retirees fly in to see this profusion of purple.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1500px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fa74ce525a4ef04e835ab5d_1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Back home, Jacaranda trees are attributed to one Frank Walter Jameson aka Jim Jameson, aka Jacaranda Jim. Jacaranda Jim was Kenya’s Town Planning Consultant in 1926 with a mandate to supervise town planning. Being a Jacaranda tree lover and given his position, Jim planted as many Jacaranda trees as he possibly could.&nbsp;In 2016, #JacarandaPropaganda started gaining popularity on social media in Kenya. When Jacaranda trees in Nairobi started to bloom to a seismic hue of purple in, KOT started taking shots of them and posting on Twitter complete with the Hashtag.The trend has continued gaining popularity among Kenyans. The photos shared are just breathtaking and have even sparked conversations around preserving the environment for future generations. Sadly, most of the Jacaranda trees in the country have been cut down and we may not experience the blooming glory as Jim Jacaranda intended. But seeing that the hashtag is picking fast, there is hope that we can preserve the remaining pieces and even plant more. If not for us, as Jacarandas take 7 to 14 years to grow enough to bloom, for future generations.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1346px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fa74fa36084e3429dde57f0_3.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>In the meantime, go out there, bask in the purple goodness, take photos and join in the #JacarandaPropaganda bandwagon and feel free to tag us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepicnicsite">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/thepicnicsiteke">Twitter </a>and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepicnicsite_ke/?hl=en">Instagram</a> . Take time to look and enjoy the scenery of purple while it lasts. Then let's wait for next year and do it all over again! ‍

Hashtag Jacaranda Propaganda - The Genesis

Yes, taking a long hot shower after a long day is therapeutic. But have you tried some good food and some relaxing music? This combo gives therapy a whole new meaning. Kenya’s Emmy nominated artist, Sara Mitaru knows this all too well and together with her husband David, have created two amazing products, ASH Music and Ash Kitchen and Grill, from the ground up. We caught up with her and she meticulously prepared a Cheesy Charcuterie board as she shared her inspirational journey, giving us a deeper understanding of what ASH is all about. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-video w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="padding-bottom:56.206088992974244%"><div><iframe allowfullscreen="true" width="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dt1Qsz1UgFY"></iframe></div></figure>&nbsp;“Ash which means Acoustic Songwriters Hub is a space where we combine great music and great food. With the pandemic we have restructured and we are bringing the music and food into people’s homes and backyards,” she starts. “Two years ago, we begun a musical experience for songwriters that grew in to a community. We are now combining that with the food aspect, which is a celebration of creative music and good food. Perfect way to blend the arts,” continues Sara who describes herself as a singer, songwriter and one half of ASH.&nbsp;“We are not trained chefs, we are Google taught, so many times and as expected, we’ve had to work twice as hard to learn and make sure that what we are cooking matches the standard or supersedes it if we can,” she confides. They pick some of the tricks from Google, specifically YouTube, then fuse that with some of their own renditions of these recipes to give it that ASH hospitality. &nbsp;&nbsp;ASH has collaborated with brands and friends who have proven to be quite reliable and helpful in the process. The collaborations have mutually beneficial. “There’s Rosemary of splendid events who makes our set ups look amazing, and Mumbi who runs Kisementi Oak farm, who gives us fresh ingredients. Collaboration has become critical,’’ continues Sara as the Cheesy Charcuterie begins to take shape.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:4032px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fad07c698861c196d1d9cea_IMG_6465-min%20(1).JPG" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;“The Covid-19 Pandemic really hit the entertainment and hospitality industries hard. As ASH, we barely had the food element going before the pandemic but then we had a series of chats with our friend Ciiru of Fun Homes who made us realize that we needed to pivot. She showed us how and since then, people have been supportive of what we do.”&nbsp;On lessons picked along the way, Sara firmly says the process has taught them the importance of changing one’s mindset. Accept the new normal, don’t have an ego, ask for help, always be grateful and give thanks to those who help and pay it forward. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:5977px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fad08c84565340e35781b74_PICNIC-54-min.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>&nbsp;“A typical day at ASH revolves around processing orders, mastering recipes from YouTube videos, testing and tasting.. y’know..just balancing work and family,” says Sara before adding that the idea of dining- in is changing since the pandemic. “People want an experience, we were lucky enough to be in the experience industry. Myself as a Songwriter and my husband David Kimanthi Muthami as a music producer and co-founder of ASH. He’s actually the one behind the great cooking and so we used that combined experience to guide us. We are now setting up in people’s homes and enjoying the intimacy of it all,” she says as she works the final touches on the Charcuterie Board. On ASH’s ultimate game plan, Sara says they hope to give an opportunity for many more creatives to get paid, keep busy and re-create the industry with the new normal.&nbsp; ‍

Cheesy Charcuterie by Sara Mitaru of ASH 

Picture this: a beautiful Sunday afternoon out in the sun, hearty laughter,&nbsp;great music and delectable finger foods washed down with a selection of premium drinks – all&nbsp;these, against the backdrop of a spectacular picnic in one of Nairobi’s hidden gems; your chief&nbsp;guest is Mama, and the occasion is Mother’s Day.&nbsp;Now think about this: the possibility of bringing this picture to life on Sunday 9th May 2021, as&nbsp;the world celebrates Mother’s Day. And it gets even better: all you have to do is craft a&nbsp;compelling story that celebrates Mama. If your story receives the highest votes from our panel of judges, we will not only elevate you as a guest contributor on The Picnic Site&nbsp;(<a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.thepicnicsite.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a>) but also present you with an all-expenses-paid picnic set-up for six people, courtesy of Vintage Picnics (<a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.vintagepicnics.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).Every day this week, we will give you an opportunity to participate in the Mother’s Delight&nbsp;Competition – each day we will publish a unique theme that captures the spirit of Mothers and&nbsp;Motherhood on our social media handles on Instagram and Facebook. We invite one and all to share with us an original, inspirational and creative narration – through a written essay or poem,&nbsp;a short video or a graphic art piece. Each day, we will evaluate the entries received by the cut-off time, and the winning entrant will secure their spot for the fabulous picnic set-up.Safety Above All&nbsp;As the world adjusts to a new normal, it is of utmost importance that we act responsibly and&nbsp;observe the Covid 19 safety protocols issued by the WHO and the Government of Kenya.&nbsp;We have taken utmost care to ensure that the Mother’s Delight Picnics will meet the highest standards of safety. Physical distancing will be a paramount feature, and each of the picnic setups will be laid out in full compliance with health and safety protocols.&nbsp;A day out in a safe space with controlled human traffic will also provide that special&nbsp;reconnection with nature, something we have all yearned for during the extended lockdowns this past year. Let us create beautiful experiences this Mother’s Day, and celebrate responsibly.&nbsp;For those who may want to do something different for Mama this Sunday, we have curated&nbsp;some content on <a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.thepicnicsite.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke </a>that can guide you as you plan the perfect Mother’s&nbsp;Day treat.&nbsp;About the Mother’s Delight CompetitionThe Mother’s Delight Competition is proudly brought to you by The Picnic Site and Vintage&nbsp;Picnics. We are passionate about the outdoors and have curated content and accessories that&nbsp;make it possible to do outdoor, smartly – outdoor activities have immeasurable physical, mental,&nbsp;emotional and spiritual benefits.We are committed to changing the script and giving Kenyans a safer and more exciting way to foster stronger social bonds and create great memories through smart outdoor living. The Mother’s Delight Competition will take place from 3rd May to 7th May, and will be&nbsp;conducted on the Competition Organizers Digital Assets as follows:&nbsp; <ul><li>Facebook Vintage Picnics The Picnic Site</li><li>Instagram vintage-picnics thepicnicsite_ke</li><li>Website <a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.vintagepicnics.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke </a> <a href="https://admin.thepicnicsite.co.ke/admin/plugins/content-manager/collectionType/application::posts.posts/www.thepicnicsite.co.ke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a></li></ul> The competition is open to all Kenyan citizens, residents and non-residents over the age of 18&nbsp;years. While multiple entries across the five different themes will be accepted and graded, an&nbsp;individual can only win one prize.All winning entries will be published on the competition organizers’ digital assets. There will be a total of five winners, each winning a picnic set up for 6 people at a location to be announced later. All prizes are not transferrable. By participating in the competition, the winners are&nbsp;expected to carefully select their party of six people who will attend the picnic on Sunday 9thMay 2021. All entries will be judged on Originality and Creativity.____________________________________________________________All Enquiries:Email hello@vintagepicnics.co.kePhone 0746 035043 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620121399/The_Picnic_Site_Mother_s_Day_campaign_1_04_05_21_2_71c9c98daf.jpg">

large_Poster.png

medium_Poster.png

small_Poster.png

thumbnail_Poster.png

Poster.png

Win it!  A deserved Mama’s Day Picnic Treat for Six

Like blossoming flowers, the outdoors is slowly coming to life after almost a year in lock-down.&nbsp; Our favourite restaurants and parks are providing the perfect backdrop for social interactions, as families and friends reconnect. Charred burgers and shawarma with all the fixings, fresh chicken salad, goat ‘choma’ grilled over a barbecue, ice-cold drinks and a large chees board —food just tastes better when served in the open.And just in case you’ve forgotten, Mother’s Day is here, that’s right, this Sunday! With warmer weather and relaxed restrictions, it’ll be hard to resist the urge to dine outside.&nbsp; A picnic is just the perfect plan to celebrate moms and hangout with loved ones.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620482562/3_fb29e35931.jpg" alt=""></figure>There are a number of things that could mess up the perfect picnic. If you are careful and conscientious, you could easily avoid common errors that can create a disaster while dinning outside. Here are some clever tips to keep in mind and how best to prepare for your next picnic.Know your picnic siteUnless you have your own green space in the backyard, consider doing a site visit to the identified location or calling in advance to confirm things like opening hours, any fees requirements, parking availability, security and the size of the crowd that frequents the location you are gunning for.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620482693/2_b5db8c9c3f.jpg" alt=""></figure>In Nairobi, for example, parks can get jammed with people because lately there has been an increased demand for outdoor spaces. Don’t be surprised to find that some sites are being overused. Nothing kills a picnic vibe like sharing a spot with hundreds of revelers. But the most important thing in avoiding crowded or common spaces is to help protect each other from exposure to coronavirus.&nbsp;Another thing you want to find out in advance is whether the picnic site has any restrictions in terms of bringing in alcohol beverages, use of plastic bottles or playing music. You might also want to find out if the location has a view to make the whole experience magical.Always ensure you consult the weather forecasts and make your preparations with this in mind. The type of weather will influence the time you go out, they type of clothing and shoes you wear, and the typeof activities you engage in.In addition, you might want to take into consideration special mobility needs, especially for the elderly.&nbsp;Some mothers prefer settings that are more private and intimate; In that case, you could explore a neighborhood park since all you need for a picnic is sufficient space to fit a mat. You can transform the mood by streaming some forest sounds on YouTube to create an ambiance of a natural and relaxed environment.&nbsp;Limit your squad<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620482969/7_005cef632e.png" alt=""></figure>If you would like to invite others to join in this special day, it’s probably best to stick to your quar-pod - these are the people whom you are not social distancing from maybe because they are members of your immediate household or you know for sure are responding to the pandemic seriously and observe all safeguarding conditions like masks, hand-washing, and social distancing. This significantly reduces risk to you and your family.&nbsp;It is also wiser to gather a limited number of people as per current Covid 19 safety recommendations but in case you have a bigger family then encourage some groups to bring their own picnic setup which will be arranged six feet apart, kind of like a picnic archipelago.Protect your skin<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483154/6_de09209120.jpg" alt=""></figure>Going outdoors sunscreen-free is not an option. No matter the forecast and even with a hat on, you are still going to catch some UV rays which could irritate the skin or eyes and increase the chances of getting painful sunburn, premature aging, or skin cancer. So whether you go for sun sprays, sunblock sticks, sun creams or gel just grab a bottle, throw it into your bag and remember to reapply every two hours.In the old days, sunscreens contained para-aminobenzoic acid but newer sunscreens contain a variety of ingredients such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and others. If you are trying to shop for the right sunscreen, experts recommend choosing SPF 50 or higher in form of lotions that are easier to apply and evenly distribute on the skin.Don’t let the bugs bite<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483355/8_0aa4d76cd0.png" alt=""></figure>Depending on the location you choose, you might get some uninvited guests that could ruin Mother’s day. Pesky pests like ants, flies, wasps, hornets, bees, mosquitoes or stingers can break the memory of a fun picnic outing by being annoying and dangerous. Some pests are just a nuisance while others sting, bite or transfer diseases. Unfortunately, what attracts most of them is the fact that they too like cheese, crackers, fruits and wine.The good news: there are some smart solutions to help you ward off those pesky beings. Most bugs don’t like acidic scents so consider setting up a few citrus candles or spraying essential oils that have the aroma of garlic, mint, rosemary or lemon. In the same spirit, you might want to avoid wearing strong scented fragrances, shampoos, or deodorants which can attract the bugs and the stings that follow.Bugs are adept at tracing sugar in any food, so another trick is to avoid displaying food or sticky sweets until you are ready to plate it. At all times food should be kept in well-sealed containers or coolers.Beware of birds<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483520/1_2783331a38.jpg" alt=""></figure>Dive-bombing birds are the most startling experiences one can have when out on a picnic. I’ll be the first one to admit that being attacked by a crow is no laughing matter (except to the persons watching the incident). Especially in the months of May and June, crows can become so territorial. Similar to our mothers, they can repetitively strike anyone that moves too close to their nest although in other instances they simply can’t resist the mouthwatering smell of ‘nyama choma’. If you notice that the location you have selected is frequented by many birds, consider bringing a big umbrella and avoid leaving meaty food uncovered.&nbsp;Keep cold foods cold and cooked foods warm<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483622/5_28e66a969e.jpg" alt=""></figure>To begin with, if everyone is bringing a little something to eat, it’s probably a good idea to coordinate menus beforehand to avoid having the same set of recipes. More importantly, when planning the menu, you want to go for dishes that do well outdoors such as crusty bread, salami, nuts, sandwiches, meat platters, cheese, grapes and some dips. The picnic might also be a great opportunity to order takeout from local restaurants.The key thing here is to observe how you pack the food to reduce risks of food poisoning. You do not want to get sick with any foodborne illness. If possible, pack cold food in an insulated cooler or add ice packs and pack hot food in foil papers or food warmers to help keep all the goodies at a safe temperature. Snacks such as sandwiches can be made at the picnic site to prevent them from becoming soggy.Remember to keep it Eco-friendly<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620483783/4_02fa4c8253.jpg" alt=""></figure>Ensure that you encourage everyone to dispose all throwaways in the garbage cans available at the park or bring a trash bag to avoid littering and conserve the beautiful outdoor spots.&nbsp;Don’t forget to pack these essentialsRemember to carry sanitizers, gloves, masks, napkins, wet wipes and plenty of water to complete your outdoor kit keeping in mind that the area may not have functioning bathrooms or running water fountains. You may also want to carry a small picnic table, foldable chairs and extra blankets.Happy Mother’s Day!

large_Capture.PNG

medium_Capture.PNG

small_Capture.PNG

thumbnail_Capture.PNG

Capture.PNG

Eight Things To Consider When Planning A Mother’s Day Picnic 

Have you wanted to take a trip and shied off because of what you have read in guide books? Well, you are not alone. This happens to the best of us as Nanjala Nyabola shares. The Kenyan writer spoke to The Guardian after her adventurous trip to Burkina Faso. Prior to her trip, Nanjala read countless guide books to arm herself with necessary tips. As you would have it, many of the books she read spelt caution during trips across Africa. Warnings of insecurities, mugging and even kidnapping kept the Kenya born writer unsure of taking her solo trip. However, she was determined to experience the western African culture, having studied there a while back. Unsure of what the future held, Nanjala set out to Burkina Faso after a short stint in Togo working for a non-profit course. Travelling alone is daring enough, if guidebooks are anything to go by, doing it on a tight budget is unheard of. However, as she moved from the historical Ouagadougou and Gorom-Gorom, she discovered how easy it was for her to blend in. All her fears of being mugged, conned or even kidnapped gradually disappeared as no one paid her attention. &nbsp; Clearly written for a different tourist, all the guidebooks Nanjala read in preparation for her travel misled her to fear her fellow race. Had she given in to this fear, she would have missed the full experience of the friendly people of Sahel and the astonishing caravans filing to the weekly market among other spectacles. Happy to have overcome her fears, Nanjala says, “Fear is a powerful and paralyzing impulse. In healthy doses, it can protect us from being a danger to ourselves and to others. In unhealthy doses, it can be the difference between living a rich, fulfilling life or ending your life as an anecdote in one of those ‘regrets of the dying’ articles”.About planning, you probably have heard seasoned travelers insist on adequate preparation. But as Nanjala discovered, sometimes you only need the passion to see places. Working with a short time and with no assurance she would ever visit the Western Africa country again, she picked a place on her map and got moving. As she further discloses, she didn’t make prior bookings for accommodation or transport. She kept hopping on the next bus and booking into any favorable space she found. In her book, Travelling While Black: Essays Inspired by a Life on the Move, you will find more details of Nanjala’s adventure. The most important lessons from her narrative is to travel whenever you can. Do not let fears meant for a different audience cripple your dream of seeing the beauty of our continent. Grab your backpack and take the bus to the destination you have always had in mind. &nbsp;To Note: This story was first published by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2020/nov/09/race-shapes-travel-backpacking-black-woman-africa-burkina-faso">The Guardian.</a>Thumbnail: Nanjala's Twitter Handle

Ditch the guidebook and get packing for that African adventure already!

Set on the western side of Kenya, Kisumu city is a beautiful town that offers warmer weather, lovely landscapes, delicious African food and plenty of outdoor entertainment offerings-a great place to create happy memories with your special someone.Whether you are just visiting the town or a resident who is looking to have special moments with their partner, below are some date ideas to spice up your relationship. Lunch dates by the lakePicture yourself having a delicious lunch on a gazebo-like restaurant right above the water. Feels like having a meal on deck right? An afternoon visit to the Impala Ecolodge Kisumu offers you such an experience. The gazebo,decorated with oil lamps, is set just above the lake and offers you a full view of the lake and other parts of the city as you enjoy your meal and chat the afternoon away with your partner. Also given that it's rarely crowded, it creates an intimate experience. Watch the sunset If there is one place that has beautiful sunsets, it has to be Kisumu town. To get a beautiful view, you could visit Riat hills. The place offers a lovely view of the city, Lake Victoria and distant islands across the lake.Such views accompanied by a beautiful sunset creates a romantic scene worth soaking in.‍ Visit a park or museum Parks and museums tend to be interesting adventures and also provide for an educative experience. While in Kisumu, you could visit the Impala Sanctuary set on the shores of Lake Victoria, home to different kinds of wild animals though the real stars of the sanctuary are the beautiful impalas and zebras that graze freely around the park. Alternatively, you could visit the museum and learn a few things about the cultural history of western Kenya and its people. It also hosts different kinds of snakes if you are daring enough to learn more about them. Boat rides Different points along the shores of Lake Victoria such as the Hippo point offer boat rides across the lake. You and your partner could hire a boat for a certain period and distance for a ride. The thrilling part of this activity is stopping by points where the hippos frequently emerge from the water for a short break or play.Pack a picnicPicnics are always an ideal date idea. There various picnic locations in Kisumu i.e. The Impala sanctuary, that you could go to and have a lovely time.Fill your basket with a simple spread of your favourite go-to snacks including fresh fruit and a cold drink it could be a bottle of wine and enjoy a lovely time.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f4f4fd7da5f2c13bd8a4cc5_Elderly.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>HikingHiking is a perfect way to challenge and bond with your partner. And once you make it at the top of a hiking trail,you'll be sure to enjoy the view with each other as well as take great pics to save the beautiful moments.&nbsp;Kit Mikayi inthe outskirts of Kisumu city is a good place to explore.‍If you are in any other part of the country, <a href="http://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/ideal-picnic-locations-across-kenya">here</a> are some destinations for you. ‍‍

Fun outdoor date ideas in Kisumu city

Safaricom, in partnership with Bella Safaris have done it for us, the <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/the-village-garden-just-what-who-recommended">outdoor</a> lovers. They have different but friendly packages to any local and international destination you always dreamt of visiting. The package categories are: Post Covid-19 Bush &amp; Beach Packages, Domestic Packages, International Packages, Non-Resident Packages, and Honeymoon Packages. All you need is to have some saved up Bonga Points then top it up with some cash. With only 710 Bonga Points and Ksh.1, 300 you can now escape to the Nairobi National Park on a day trip. This is an ordinary package that includes: Pick up / drop off at your House, Transport in a van, Services of English /other language speaking driver guide, Game viewing drives, Shared water/caned soda, Lunch at the Maasai lodge in Rongai and Government taxes and local levies.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:5760px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f869aee77c88a5b7ceac154_2A8A2166.JPG" loading="lazy"></div></figure>For a luxury experience at the Nairobi National Park, all you need is 1,500 Bonga Points and Ksh. 1600. The package covers: Pick up /drop off at your House, Transport in a Land cruiser, Services of English /other language speaking driver guide, Game viewing drives, Shared water/caned soda, Lunch at the Maasai lodge in Rongai and Government taxes and local levies.For a <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/game-drive-lovers-forgive-forget-and-are-back-at-the-park">getaway</a> to the Maasai Mara (Lenchada), with three days and two nights’ accommodation, all you need is 2500 Bonga Points and Ksh. 11,500. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:300px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f85e2263e4524e1db98c95a_safaricom-logo-5A2F291509-seeklogo.com.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>“Over the years, our customers have enjoyed rewards such as airtime, data bundles and affordable devices for their loyalty to the Safaricom network. However, we are cognizant of the evolving needs of our customers. That is why we are constantly looking for more partners to offer additional lifestyle propositions that provide our customers more options and freedom in how they utilize their loyalty points,” says Sylvia Mulinge, the Chief Customer Officer, Safaricom on the inspiration behind Safiri Na Bonga. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:5760px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f869b1096678cd0e224dbf0_2A8A2173.JPG" loading="lazy"></div></figure>To see all the destinations featured, details on the package and to book, check out <a href="https://bellasafaris.com/">https://bellasafaris.com/</a>. The payment process is also as easy as ABC. All you need is to: Dial *126# and select Lipa na Bonga Select ‘Buy Goods’ &nbsp;Enter Buy Goods Till No (505941) and amount of shillings to top-upEnter Service PIN and confirm amount to be paid and points to be deducted &nbsp; Receive confirmation SMS with the M-PESA transaction ID.‍Safiri Na Bonga to your dream destination. ‍&nbsp;‍

Escape to Nairobi National Park on a Day trip with only 710 Bonga Points

Young, in college, your idea of a date is a mzinga and a pass by Sonford for the signature kuku chips as you hope the babe will be super impressed to the point she will finally agree to go watch that movie that has been lying on your laptop for weeks. Yes, you have watched it before, but hey, one has to make sure it is a good one first, right? After college, truth hits you hard. Dating is expensive in Nairobi, no matter what stage you are in. One has to be creative to keep chivalry alive. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1616033837/DSC_08688_6cad8154fe.jpg"> It was February, a month people love and loathe in equal measure. I admit to not being the romantic - flowers and chocolates kind of dude, but with this babe, I had to try. “You look deep in thought” she breaks the silence. “Mmmh” I murmur. I'm just blankly staring at a family of monkeys. The notice at the entrance says ‘do not feed them', while the true warning should be just like the ones plastered everywhere mankind congregate, ‘Take care of your belongings'. After all, we share most of our DNA formation with them, always wanting to pinch on what is not ours. “You are an amazing cook,” she continues, wiping crumbs from the creases of her mouth having folded the balance of the feta samosas I had packed for our creative outing. I smile with pride, offering to wipe away the non-existent crumbs she didn’t have left on her face. See I am not half a good cook but I have learnt quite some skills during the lockdown thanks to the pandemic. Between the internet and DStv, I am ready to earn my first Michelin star. My to go to channel for quick and easy ideas for indoor and outdoor hosting is HONEY. I could spend a good chunk of my day just taking notes on how to elevate my hosting game. Just the other day I was shuffling through the channels when one caught my eye. A dude was on it, I knew of him from the social streets, and he was competing to have his recipe on the menu of a certain restaurant, ‘Making the Menu' they called it. And here, some homemade step by step plagiarised recipe had made me a cook. Nice. Back to the monkeys. They have scattered away now – I hope they leave us in peace. My mind wanders again. I marvel at the picnic set up – I am really getting good at this shot at creativity.I bought a couple of accessories from Vintage Picnics and threw in a bit of my own pieces from the house. I could literally audition as an event organizer for this new show Patricia Kihoro is hosting on DStv. The one where more seasoned organizers put together dreamy set up worthy of popping. The big question. I stare into my picnic babe’s eyes and see satisfaction and hunger all at once. She wants another picnic soon. She says this without saying it. Time flies when you are having a good time. The sun is setting and we decide to take a walk home. We get home and slump on the sofa, habitually, I turn the telly on for some background noise and I am met by the most pressurizing image on TV for the moment. A guy is down on one knee. I had left the TV on my default channel 173 and Yes!Ndio!Beeni! was in the moment. The events on the telly got me asking myself if this was the girl I have been waiting for all this time. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1616033833/Unknown_65c9b57708.jpg"> DStv, I am ready to earn my first Michelin star. My to go to channel for quick and easy ideas for indoor and outdoor hosting is HONEY. I could spend a good chunk of my day just taking notes on how to elevate my hosting game.

large_DSC08615.jpg

medium_DSC08615.jpg

small_DSC08615.jpg

thumbnail_DSC08615.jpg

DSC08615.jpg

I have been watching a lot of HONEY and it shows  

INGREDIENTS1. 1/2 kg of ground beef/mined meat.2. 2 lightly beaten eggs.3. 1/2 cup finely chopped red onions.4. 1/2 cup finely shredded spring onions5. 2 Tsp ground garlic6. 1/2 cup finely chopped coriander.7. Salt to taste8. Pinch of black pepper.9. 1 tsp paprika10. 1 tsp curry powder11. Oil to deep fry.‍DIRECTIONS1. Add 3 table spoons of oil to a sauce pan and lightly fry the onions, spring onions until soft.2. Add the garlic and fry for 1 minute while stirring.3. Add the paprika, curry and black pepper and cook for 2 minutes then remove from the fire.4. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, coriander, salt and the cooked onions. Mix well.5. Divide the mixture into 6 portions and shape them into sausage shapes.6. Coat each in the wheat flour and then dip in the egg dip.7. In a deep frying pan or fryer bring the oil to heat under medium heat. Ensure the oil is not too hot and not too cool... it should be medium heat.8. Deep fry the kebabs on medium heat as you constantly turn them until they are light brown.(about 12 minutes)9. Remove them from the oil and repeat the egg dip and deep fry again this time for about 5-6minutes.10. Repeat the egg dip a third time and deep fry for 5 minutes. remove them from the oil and drain.11. pack them in aluminium foil to keep them hot.‍SERVING: 6 PORTIONSTOTAL TIME: 45 MIN

Zilpah's Kitchen special Kebabs for your next picnic 

Accidents are inevitable and can happen anywhere. And even as we emphasize the importance of outdoors, we still need to stay safe while out there. Keep an open mind in case of an accident while outdoors. &nbsp;It is useful to be able to treat accidents quickly and, on the spot, even if it is only to stick a band aid on a cut. In case of something as serious as a huge fall or a snake-bite, always have a hospitals’ or a doctor’s number on speed dial.In case any accident happens when you’re out unwinding, here are some first aids tips you should apply:Cardio pulmonary resuscitation –CPRTake the trouble to learn basic first aid and CPR. If an emergency occurs, you will have much more confidence in dealing with it if you know exactly what to do. This includes basic first aid steps, like checking the airway of a person, the breathing and pulse rate. In case a person gets unconscious, or choking occurs, the basic steps learnt can save a life.You can get CPR classes at any hospital. First aid kitIt is advisable that you always carry a first aid kid when going out.You can buy a ready made one in a drug store, or you can make one at home. To make your own at home, here are some of the things that you will need;-Use a waterproof box or bag to hold all your first aid. Don't make your first aid kit too big though or you will be tempted to leave it behind.A list of the contents below;●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Personal Insect repellent to keep flies and mosquitoes at bay.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Antiseptic cream for cuts and scrapes.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sun screen for anyone who has forgotten to bring their own.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ointment or white vinegar for stings.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bicarbonate of soda for rashes.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Crepe bandage to immobilize limbs in case of a snake bite or sprains.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wound dressings and roll of bandage.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roll of sticking plaster.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Disposable gloves. Always wear gloves when you are treating open wounds for hygiene and safety.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Band-Aid dressings.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Triangular bandage to use as a sling.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tweezers and a needle to remove splinters and bee stings.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Matches for sterilizing needles.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Paracetamol for headaches.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ibuprofen for more severe pain.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An instant cold pack to help relieve the pain and swelling of sprains and bruises.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Small sharp scissors.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Eye bath to wash foreign bodies from eyes.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Antihistamine tablets to treat stings and hay-fever.●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A small book of instructions for simple first aid and CPR.If anyone in the group has a medical condition,remember to carry their medication. This is in case of asthmatic attacks,diabetics due to low blood sugar and others.&nbsp;&nbsp;‍

First aid essentials for your next hike

Infinix Ambassador, Wildlife Photographer and Travel influencer, Fahad Fuad says, “Smartphone cameras are on an inexorable rise in terms of redefining photography and producing the best imagery possible. With almost every smartphone company flaunting higher megapixel, multiple lenses,night mode shots and cinematic video recording, there is really nothing that stops one from taking DSLR-style shots.”<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f606442f18182220ab07519_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>For your next road trip, Fahad generously shares his top photography tips to level up your smartphone photography skills and help you document unforgettable the beauty that surrounds you.Composition is key. Compose your subject around the environment to create a story. “Don’t just focus on yourself.” says Fahad. “When you post a photo on Instagram, people don’t just look at you but rather focus on how the subject fits into the environment to create a message.” he adds. An example of composing a photo while on the road is to include trees, hills and the sky which will help you enhance the impact of your photos.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:581px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6064af72ceecc76d9855d6_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Find the light. Even the best camera is worthless with poor lighting. Unless you are creating a silhouette, the sun or source of light has to be behind the camera. This helps your phone camera bring out the details and capture great pictures. Snap during the "golden hour”. Timing is everything they say. So, plan your road trips around good light. “The golden hour happens between 6am -10am and 4pm – 6pm. This is when the sun gives a soft yellow-orange lighting. Any other time during the day is likely to have harsh sunlight which often makes pictures appear pale or burnt.” says Fahad. The big advantage of the golden hour is that it adds a touch of magic to your photos.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f60650af7ad083cf3b7591c_1.png" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Snap bursts of photos. Take as many photos as you can within one shoot so that you can review the images and select the perfect shot. This technique is also ideal for capturing objects in motion or high energy moments with your loved ones. As a photographer always shoot something that is good and you will never know a good picture until you take that shot. So don’t wait for perfect moments rather, create them.Capture the action. The most important thing to remember is to have fun during your adventures and translate that into dynamic action photos. Don’t be afraid to play around with different angles and try out new poses. Fahad says, “When you visit a place, you not only want to remember how it looked like but also how it felt. So for instance if you visit a waterfall, why not get into the water and experience the cold splash and slippery rocks? You’ll be surprised how refreshing nature can be and your photos will tell a great story.”<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f60656cdfdfd66c0235d72d_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Add a filter for impact. A good filter can improve the quality of your photos and deepen the colors of the sky, trees or lakes. When used correctly, it can make an unexposed feature such as a mountain or forest standout in the same photo. “Every smartphone has editing features on their camera. Personally,I use that together with ‘Lightroom’ which is a free editing app available for installation on your phone or laptop. Features on this app are the best for editing outdoor photos.” says Fahad.Bring a tripod. The simplest way to improve the quality of your photo is to use a tripod. This is especially necessary when you are traveling solo and you want to get clearer, steady photos. "It is important to note that tripods should be placed on a flat surface to avoid dropping your phone so be mindful of that when you are out in the wild." Your phone might not capture an award winning shot but all you need to achieve a great photo is a combination of careful planning,good timing and patience. ‍These tips will also come in handy on your next backyard <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/swap-the-restaurant-brunch-for-a-diy-backyard-brunch">brunch</a>. ‍

Tips to ace your Mobile photography on the next Road Trip 

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;When babies begin babbling, “Ma” is often the first sound they vocalize.&nbsp;This may well be the reason why in many languages, the word for “Mother” begins with either the letter M, or an iteration of “Ma” sound.&nbsp;As the world unites in celebrating Mother’s Day on 9th May, we can confidently share our top three predictions:1. Single stem white roses and elegant floral bouquets will be dished out in abundance (yay to the floriculture industry and florists who will sweat it out behind the scenes as Mamas around the world embrace the beautiful aroma from nature given in love, and received with abundant joy)2. &nbsp;There will be heightened activity on the virtual world and Google will carry the day as the search for ‘Mother’s Day card’ peaks throughout the weekend.&nbsp;Beautiful screenshots will be shared multiple times, as humanity congregates around a single mission – to extend “Happy Mother’s Day” wishes to mothers on our contact list and online communities.3. &nbsp;There are people for whom the day will evoke painful emotions. Torn between reliving the heartache of losing a mother and celebrating the rich legacy of a mum in heaven, this year’s Mother’s Day will inadvertently become a painful day to trudge through.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620379969/Heaven_f88e70d646.png" alt=""></figure>Given that we are on a mission to rewrite the script and make Mother’s Day a significant and beautiful celebration, we have gone on overdrive to empower our readers, and hopefully cancel out our first two predictions above. Our third prediction is a very delicate topic.&nbsp;It is not made easy by the fact that the commercialization of Mother’s Day has overwhelmingly tilted the scales in favour of mothers on earth.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;What many may not know is that Mother’s Day, first celebrated on 12th May 1907, was founded by Anna Jarvis, an American social activist and community organizer.&nbsp;Reeling from the pain of losing her own mother, and deeply touched by departed’s legacy, she organized a memorial service in her mother’s honour, and rallied the support of her nation’s leadership to have Mother’s Day adopted as an annual celebration, every second Sunday in the month of May.&nbsp;Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated all around the world, and is the third most popular holiday globally, after Christmas and Easter.We sought out Mueni Wambua to gain a deeper perspective on Mother’s Day for Mums in heaven. Mueni wears many hats: she is an authenticity coach, a grief recovery counsellor, and a minister under the Nairobi Baptist Church.&nbsp;Our conversation with her brought out insightful perspectives on Mother’s Day, and we are delighted to let you in on part of our conversation with Mueni.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620374871/Mothers_0720206b62.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Mueni Wambua</figcaption></figure>What is your most memorable Mother’s Day, and what is it that made the day stand out for you?&nbsp;14th May 2006 was the most memorable one as it was the first one that I celebrated as a mum having had my son exactly a month earlier. I had been diagnosed with endometriosis in 2002 and I had been told that there is a great possibility that I may never be able to have a child. So, to hold my son was a miracle and a statement of the faithfulness of God.Becoming a mum also gave me a new perspective of my own mum and I saw her in new light.&nbsp;I have profound respect for mums and what motherhood means. I can only summarise the intensity of the emotion with the quote that the day you become a mother is the day you start watching your heart walk outside of your body.&nbsp;A lot of focus on Mother’s Day tends to be on mothers who are alive and present.&nbsp;Is it healthy to celebrate mothers who have passed on?&nbsp;Mother’s Day is held in honor of all mothers – here on earth, and in heaven. We can celebrate our mothers and the memories we carry since we are because they were.This day can be full of heartache because life only gives us one biological mother and the death of a mother is a watershed event in the life of many, there will always be a life before and a life after her demise.And if to celebrate her on this day gives you comfort and has significance, by all means, go ahead and remember her in the best way you know how.How can we celebrate mothers who have left us?Grief is a very personal journey in which we grieve not over titles but over relationships.Some of the ways we can celebrate mums that have left us is to live out the lessons we carry from their lives and express love to those around us in that way. For instance, if your mum was all about family unity, you can have time together as a family to remember her.It is also important to acknowledge that sometimes relationships with mothers could have been strained or even broken when they were alive. In this case, while it may be easy to feel like there is nothing to celebrate about her, you can give yourself the gift of forgiving her and yes, still picking the lessons you can from her life even if it means learning what not to do or who not to become.Bottomline, it is important to find a way to allow yourself to remember your mother in a manner that reflects the kind the relationship you had or even the one you wish you had with her. Do this in truth and love and kindness to yourself.Our blog actively promotes outdoor living and encourages people to take excursions and enjoy quality time together.&nbsp;This is because we believe that outdoor living offers a 360- degree perspective on wholesome wellbeing (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual).&nbsp;Is it possible to heal the pain of loss by taking part in solo or group-based outdoor activities?&nbsp;Grief and loss and the emotions we experience demand expression and to deny these will have adverse effects on us. It is therefore imperative to find healthy ways to cope with our losses.The outdoors are a liberating, healthy and generally affordable way to connect with ourselves and our loved ones. Picnics, exercising together, going for walks, hikes and even engaging in gardening are all ways that can nurture us and allow us to calm our minds when everything seems overwhelming. We can also find ways to support our loved ones in their time of loss in a manner that does not endanger them or ourselves and yet it still communicates our love and presence. It is also a time to act in love, hope and faith and without obligation or condemnation.We are running away with Mueni’s closing remarks: the outdoors are a liberating, healthy and generally affordable way to connect with ourselves and our loved ones.&nbsp;We encourage everyone to seek a healthy dose of outdoor living – and yes, let’s not leave out those who have gone before us as we celebrate mothers, mother-figures and motherhood.&nbsp;You can reach Mueni Wambua on the following platforms:Email: <a href="mailto:mueni@counsellor.com">mueni@counsellor.com</a>&nbsp;| WhatsApp: +254764856489Instagram: ms_authenticity&nbsp;| Facebook: Mueni Wambua&nbsp;| Twitter: @MueniWambua&nbsp;

medium_RIP Mom.png

small_RIP Mom.png

thumbnail_RIP Mom.png

RIP Mom.png

Here’s Why We Should Also Celebrate Mums In Heaven On Mother's Day

Blackpink’s 1st album aptly named The Album is a must have in your playlist for your next road trip. The album released on October 2nd has eight songs and features collaborations from Selena Gomez on their second pre-release song ice cream and the WAP hit maker Cardi B on the track bet you wanna.In this album, the girls talk about love and hate; from being lovesick girls who have been hurt over and over but they’re still looking for love in lovesick girls to dealing with the hate they get from haters in tracks like love to hate me. The girls do a great job by having songs that are not only catchy but also easy to dance to.On the title track lovesick girls, the girls sing about looking for love even though they’re born to be alone over a very catchy guitar instrumental that leads to a more house beat on the chorus. This is that song you sing along to at the top of your voices as the wind blows in your hair and you butcher the Korean lyrics.On ice cream and crazy over you, the girls are more playful and seductive as they talk about love using tongue in cheek lyrics likening it to ice cream and also talking about how they are crazy without the love of their significant other. The songs have great beats that are bound to bring out the inner deep body rolls out of the worst dancers and make for the perfect songs to make a quick car choreo for.On tracks like how you like that and bet you wanna featuring Cardi B, the girls go from being triumphant over an ex flame to teasing a new catch. Both have amazing lyrics and groovy beats that will have your head bobbing the entire time.On pretty savage and love to hate me, the girls address hate they keep getting and talk about how they are avoiding it and focusing on doing their work and being themselves despite the haters. Both feature amazing lyrics and great raps from Jennie and Lisa and Rose and Jisoo aren’t left behind as well. Their vocals are outstanding.The album ends on a softer and hopeful note with you never know which features heartfelt lyrics, raw vocals, a soft beat and the reassurance that the girls are still themselves even after all the hate and self-doubt that comes about after. This is definitely that song to ride out into the sunset with as the drive comes to a close.The Album certainly lived up to its expectations and for such a long awaited album did above and beyond to deliver as no track on the album can be skipped. The girls did an excellent job with this album and we cannot recommend it enough for your road trip playlist.&nbsp;

Blackpink for your girls' trip

My eldest brother turned 50. That’s a milestone in anyone’s life. As a family, we wanted to get him a special gift to mark the occasion. Something timeless, something real that he would appreciate and use. Not something that he would consume in a day and forget. I asked some friends and was pointed to several online gift shops. They had a variety of offers, but none stood out. &nbsp;They were mostly special alcohol bottles. It’s nice to have an expensive bottle of whiskey, but once you open it, it’s gone in a few hours. There also does not seem to be much imagination in men’s gifts. Yes, there are Fathers Day specials, but then it’s like they set out to masculinize and adapt Mother’s Day gifts for men. Instead of wine, do whiskey. Also, change chocolate to whisky stones and a beauty package to a beard kit. But hair grooming items will not appeal to someone who has managed his hair for 30 years. Then one day, while shopping at Carrefour. I saw something that clicked. I took a picture and shared it with the family. They all agreed that it was perfect. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f3a565b0ee58d26e0dc9506_1%20(1).jpg"></div></figure> My brother loves to host guests and to grill meat. &nbsp;At family functions, he is always our resident meat chef, lighting a jiko, roasting goat legs and ribs, and carving them all before serving. While the kids are inside playing video games, and the ladies are cooking and gossiping in the kitchen, you will find him outside at his rather old grill with tongs, a bunch of rosemary twigs and marinade. Watching, sprinkling, raising the grille, turning, the meat. He’s at peace out there with a drink and a newspaper. So far the grill is perfect. I have not had a chance to taste what it roasts, but he’s very happy with and says it uses a very small amount of charcoal. He says it cooks really fast and that the first time he used it, he burnt the meat to the bone, as he got caught off by its intense heat conversion. &nbsp; So we got him, one of the three models by BBQ’s Today (<a href="http://www.bbqstoday.co.ke/" target="_blank">http://www.bbqstoday.co.ke</a>) at Carrefour &nbsp;We took a smaller one that cost about Kshs 27,000. It does two kinds of cooking, with charcoal, has wheels for easy movement, and is compact enough to fit in a station wagon. There were other larger ones, that cost about Kshs 50,000. I see lots of excitement about Builders Warehouse opening in Karen that also has several grills on its posters, and can’t wait to compare what they have. ‍

Gifts for men who picnic

Since this issue is a hiking and camping issue, we thought it would be befitting for the whole experience to have a soundtrack. Yay!! Here’s the perfect camping and hiking playlist from DJ Festa. You may also bring it along for your game drive. <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/festa254/" target="_blank">https://www.mixcloud.com/festa254/</a>

It’s like jungle bango, except it’s a mix!

Our Africa Face of the Month Patricia Kihoro embodies female empowerment and is a role model to girls and women of all ages. “I celebrate women who challenge the status-quo- women who have challenged the systems that oppress us by fearlessly living their lives as they see fit, rather than as they have been conditioned or groomed to”So, without further ado, let’s get to know Kenyan Superstar Patricia Kihoro:Fact One: She’s a woman of many talents:Patricia is a singer, actor, and comedian and enjoys each of them equally. But, if she had to pick, it would be singing as she’s done it for the longest.Fact Two: More about her career path:She was going to study psychology but an opportunity to be in a play presented itself and she deferred a semester to participate. That was her first professional performance on stage. &nbsp;&nbsp;Fact Three: Patricia is excited about local TV and Film:<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621269687/2_0c96c0bb7a.png" alt=""><figcaption>Photo Courtesy: Patricia Kihoro on Instagram&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>“Kenyans have such talent and such commitment to the industry”. She is excited to see local Kenyan originals on Showmax, such as Crime and Justice.Fact Four: As the host of Yes! Ndio! Beeni! she’s the show’s biggest advocateThe show is full of warmth, love, and beautiful demonstrations of intention and commitment between two people. Watch it Wednesdays at 19:30 CAT on HONEY, DStv channel 173.Fact Five: What’s on her watchlist?Her favourite is Room Reno, which airs on Fridays at 19:30 CAT on HONEY, DStv channel 173. You’ll also find her watching Nigerian Idol, every Sunday at 19:00 CAT on Africa Magic, DStv channel 198, and bingeing all seasons of Insecure on Showmax.Fact Six: As a content creator, she’s motivated by the launch of Showmax Kenya“It’s very motivating and I am inspired towards one day creating and seeing my ideas come to life”Fact Seven: When it comes to her free time<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621269549/1_fdededd069.png" alt=""><figcaption>Photo Courtesy: Patricia Kihoro on Instagram&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>“Bingeing is my guilty pleasure and when I have moments to rest, I’m watching entire seasons of shows and movies. I recently watched Why women kill and Knives out- both brilliantly done.” You can watch both on Showmax.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

small_Pat.PNG

thumbnail_Pat.PNG

Pat.PNG

How Well Do You Know Africa Face of the Month Patricia Kihoro?

We all strive to bring up all round healthy kids. Theirwellness is one thing that is always in the mind of any parent. When it comesto meals, sometimes we may run out of options. sometimes torn between givingthem all healthy foods and letting them be children by giving them processedtreats… it’s only human, right? &nbsp;But, wehave your back, here are some treats that will come in handy when you get tothat catch 22 situation. The beauty of these recipes is that you can make themwith your kids- something that will keep them busy and help them learn while atit: &nbsp;<ol start="1"> <li>Frozen banana treats</li></ol>Prep time 1hr 35minsIngredients●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3 medium bananas●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 cup dark chocolate chips●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 teaspoons shortening●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Toppings: chopped peanuts, toasted sweetened shreddedcoconut and/or colored jimmies.Method<ol start="1"> <li>Cut each banana crosswise into 6 pieces (about 1 in.). &nbsp; &nbsp; Insert a toothpick into each piece; transfer to a waxed paper-lined baking &nbsp; &nbsp; sheet. Freeze until completely firm, about 1 hour.</li> <li>In a microwave, melt chocolate and shortening; stir until smooth. &nbsp; &nbsp; Dip the frozen banana pieces in the chocolate mixture and allow the excess &nbsp; &nbsp; mixture to drip off. </li> <li>Dip in toppings as desired; return to the baking sheet. &nbsp; &nbsp; Freeze at least 30 minutes before serving.</li> <li>You can make as many to &nbsp; &nbsp; serve many kids.</li></ol>&nbsp;<ol start="2"> <li>Kiddy Homemade cake</li></ol>&nbsp;Prep time-50 minutesIngredients●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 cup white sugar●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;½ cup butter●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 large eggs●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 teaspoons vanilla extract●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 ½ cups all-purpose flour●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;½ cup milkMethod<ol start="1"> <li>Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease &nbsp; &nbsp; and flour a pan or line a muffin pan with paper liners.</li> <li>In a medium bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. &nbsp; &nbsp; Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. </li> <li>Combine the flour and baking powder, add to the creamed &nbsp; &nbsp; mixture and mix well. Finally stir in the milk until the batter is smooth. &nbsp; &nbsp; </li> <li>Pour or spoon batter into the prepared pan.</li> <li>Bake for 30 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven. For &nbsp; &nbsp; cupcakes, bake for 20 to 25 minutes.</li> <li>You can serve with a warm &nbsp; &nbsp; or cold drink as preferred.</li></ol>&nbsp;‍

Healthy kid recipes for healthy kids

Another Mother’s Day in the New Normal is here with us. With all the Covid-19 containment measures, the last thing you need is a celebration that breaches all the safety protocols, leaving you and your loved ones exposed and uncomfortable. This, however, does not mean that you should spend this special day stuck indoors with only tales, screen time, and predictable activities and meals. You can make this day special by taking Mum out for some sunshine and bonding. Outdoor activities in this season are a breath of fresh air, allowing us to reconnect with nature, and also get some much-needed fresh air and a dose of sunshine vitamins. We are delighted to share with you some sure bets that will add a special touch to Mother’s Day this year.&nbsp;Nairobi and surrounding regions1. Evergreen Park<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620244417/evergreen_9c00cf95e4.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>The Evergreen Park</figcaption></figure>The Evergreen Park is located Kiambu Road, some 500m to the left after the Northern Bypass overpass. This would make an ideal picnic destination for Mama. Here, she will be spoilt for choice, with a variety of activities including fishing, boat-riding, horse and camel riding, among others. The Evergreen Park provides a quiet and serene environment perfect for Instagram-worthy photo sessions. In case you are bringing Mama's grandkids along, there is enough place space for them and a bouncing castle. This will keep them busy and happy as you bond with your Mum.Entry Requirements:Ksh500 per adultKsh400 per child(3-11YRS)Ksh100 per activity2. Langata Botanical Gardens<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620244553/Langata_Botanical_53bbba362f.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Langata Botanical Gardens</figcaption></figure>Located about 20km from Nairobi CBD and less than 20 minutes from the Karen Shopping Centre, Langata Botanical Gardens is a spectacular recreational spot. Mum is bound to fall in love with the beauty and calm here. Langata Botanical Gardens is ideal for relaxation, recreation, celebration, and inspiration, giving that therapeutic vibe. Here, there are hundreds of indigenous trees, large beautiful lawns and a lagoon that has a large variety of fish. The place has bandas all around, secluded by natural vegetation and this gives you enough privacy to catch up with your mum as you relax in nature.Entry Requirements:They give custom quotations based on the activitiesOpens from: 8:00am3. Waterfalls Inn<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620382911/waterfalls_inn_5_1928e9f3d0.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Waterfalls Inn</figcaption></figure>About 45 minutes drive from the Nairobi CBD, is the Waterfalls Inn in Tigoni, Limuru, Kiambu County. The area is well known for its beautiful rolling landscapes with carpet-like tea plantations&nbsp;and so, even before you get to the destination, you're already basking in nature's glory. At Waterfalls Inn, the picnic site is set on a hill overlooking the Nairobi skyline and the Highlands of Limuru. This is a breathtaking view and you can bet that your mum will love every bit of it.Entry Requirements:Ksh: 450 per adultKsh: 200 per child(If bringing your own drinks, you'll have to pay corkage fees)4. Nairobi Safari Walk<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620383313/Nairobi_SW_33e7b4720b.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Nairobi Safari Walk</figcaption></figure>Does Mama thrive in a nature-centric location? Then the Nairobi Safari Walk, located in Lang'ata, less than 30 minutes drive from the CBD, is all she needs to make Mother's Day memorable. Here, she'll get to see a sample of Kenya's rich animal life including the rare bongo, white rhino and albino zebra as well as big cats, antelopes and primates. Nairobi Safari Walk is also home to at least 150 species of local trees.Entry Requirements:Entry Fee: From Ksh.400 for adultsOperating Hours: 9:00am-5:30pm5. Ngong Hills Nature Reserve<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620062685/Ngong_Hills_ed62ead7f3.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Ngong Hills Nature Reserve</figcaption></figure>Located in the northern tip of Kajiado County and 25km from Nairobi City, Ngong Hills Forest is managed by Kenya Forest Service (KFS). You can take your mother this Mother’s Day to enjoy a panoramic view of Nairobi and the surrounding knuckle-peaked hills. For nature-loving mothers, this location has a wide range of indigenous trees such as pine, cypress and sandalwood. The Ngong Hills is an exceptional location for hikes and picnics. For those mothers who would appreciate an adrenalin-rush, they can try out zip lining, an activity that is not for the faint-hearted.Entry Requirements:Park Entry Fee: KShs 200.00Opening Hours: 8.00am – 5.00pm, daily6. Karura Forest Reserve<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620383693/Karura_5ece0f257f.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Karura Forest Reserve</figcaption></figure>The Karura Forest Reserve is an urban upland forest on the outskirts of Nairobi offering an eco-friendly respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.&nbsp;It is a serene, safe and secure environment that has a lot to offer: scenic nature trails, archaeological sites, caves and marshlands.&nbsp;You can organize a memorable treat for Mama, combining some low-impact aerobic activities with a delightful picnic in the sun.Entry Requirements:Gate Fees: Range from KShs 50.00 to KShs 600.00 (different rates applicable for citizens, residents and non-residents)Opening hours: 06:00am- 16:45pm&nbsp;Coast Region7. Nguuni Nature Sanctuary<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620384537/Nguuni_8ad5c22950.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Nguuni Nature Sanctuary</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;It is located about 30 minutes’ drive from the Mombasa City Centre. Nguuni Nature Sanctuary in Kiembeni is home to a variety of wildlife species and birds. You can take your mum for a picnic here and share meals underneath sweeping doum palms in the company of friendly giraffes, ostriches and oryx. You even get to feed them during mealtime. The sanctuary is a bird watchers’ paradise and makes a popular site for serene sun-downers.Rates*Resident: Adult - Ksh. 350 Child - Ksh. 100*Non-Resident: Adult - Ksh. 800 Child - Ksh. 300*All payments are done in cash at the gate upon arrival.8. Butterfly Pavilion<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620384829/Butterfly_d368ed12e2.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Butterfly Pavilion - Photo courtesy of Vamos Homes App</figcaption></figure>In close proximity to Mombasa’s northern beach front lies the Butterfly Pavilion. It is a tropical paradise that hosts more than 16 species of butterfly and various antelopes. The facility is ideal for day trips and offers a range of outdoor activities to make Mother’s Day special for Mama. Its reclaimed forest, ponds and hills make it a unique picnic location. Watch out for the crafty troops of monkeys that like to swoop down from the trees to join the get-together.Rates*Resident: Adult - Ksh. 250 Child - Ksh. 150*Non-Resident: Adult - Ksh. 600 Child - Ksh. 300*All payments should be done via MPESA.Western Region9. Dunga Boardwalk<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620384984/Dunga_4d2ab24d07.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Dunga Boardwalk</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;The board walk is located next to Dunga beach on the shores of Lake Victoria, a famous location for buying/eating fish fresh from the lake and going for boat rides. It is the perfect place to take Mama for some sunshine and bird watching, hippo spotting and enjoying the amazing Kisumu by the Lake Victoria waters. The sundowners here are a picturesque affair, one that Mama would definitely enjoy on her special day.Rates:*Resident Adult- Ksh.100.*Resident child- Ksh 50*All payments made at the entrance10. Impala Ecolodge, Kisumu<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620385181/Impala_0b00d38933.png" alt=""><figcaption>Impala Ecolodge, Kisumu</figcaption></figure>Picture Mum and yourself having a delicious lunch on a gazebo-like floating restaurant.&nbsp;Feels like having a meal on a deck, right?&nbsp;The gazebo, decorated with oil lamps, is set just above the lake and offers you a full view of the city as you enjoy a sumptuous meal and chat the afternoon away with your Mama.&nbsp;The Impala Ecolodge is secluded, making it the perfect getaway for a cozy treat with Mama.Rates:These vary according to services offered.These are just some of the options you can look up and make Mother’s Day memorable for Mama.

large_Mama 11.png

medium_Mama 11.png

small_Mama 11.png

thumbnail_Mama 11.png

Mama 11.png

Here are 10 Perfect Spots for Mama's Day Picnic

Torn between pandemic safety rules and environmental concerns, many restaurants have become masters in the art of takeout services and packaging well-sealed containers ideal for trips to a park, picnic site, beaches or camping sites. These to-go options are great now that our world is literally in our phones and grabbing a clamshell of tacos or a bag of french-fries feels safer than dining inside a restaurant.Here’s an array o restaurant, café, and food truck choices serving excellent meals at modest prices that can be quickly picked up on your way to the outdoors.1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dinah’s Kitchen<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:309px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd523002bc605cf7b4603dd_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Dinah’s kitchen is the best weekend plan ever. The online restaurant has quite a number of options that are great for a family picnic, like this platter which can be served for two or four. The platter comes with portions of BBQ beef ribs, cheesy chicken wings, saucy beef meatballs, bespoke creamy chicken, creamed spinach, parsley potatoes and an avocado sauce for dipping.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:196px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd5237208d85f4ae4416a85_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>They also serve a plate of honey garlic chicken wings with sauté potatoes Ahh!! so good and perfect for that picnic with views from the beautiful Karura forest. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:521px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd523d7d000146746555039_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>For a less-meaty or vegetarian option, be sure to check out their mouthwatering salad menu. I can assure you that the Zesty Kiwi Olive Salad will be your absolute favorite.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:249px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52458db239125913ff68c_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>One more reason why I love Dinah’s kitchen is that their packaging is 100% biodegradable an indication that the restaurant is cautious about the environment. Head out to their IG page <a href="https://www.instagram.com/din.ahs_kitchen/?hl=en">@din.ahs_kitchen</a>to see menu and place your order. 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tasty Frites Loaded Fries<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:349px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd5250091a9688357d59528_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>For most of us, comfort food is a meal that is enjoyable to eat and makes us happier, but may not always be the healthiest option. For me, French fries is the ultimate comfort food. Ever ordered fries from @tastyfrites? Well you need to because these guys take it to the next level and have an Instagram feed that will make you drool. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:378px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd525837206be80fbc4616b_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Imagine having a giant plate of fries smothered with toppings like cheese, mushrooms, green onions, beef chili, bacon and chicken. Delishh!!My number one favorite had to be the soft creamy cheese, mushrooms and sprinklings of crispy bacon on top of homely fries. This combo brings out an enhanced umami flavor, perfect to serve at your next family outing. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:307px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd526078a2d3cace3e4c6e7_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>I also loved the Chili Beef fries packed with loads of savory and tangy flavors. The chili spread around it definitely comes through really well with the seasoned and minced beef. Deliciously soft and crunchy. Next time you don’t feel like a homecooked meal you know where you’re ordering from!3.&nbsp; The Goods Gourmet DonutsIf you’re a sweet tooth like me, it’s hard not to love donuts. It’s just the perfect snack to grab for a long distance road-trip. With the holiday season here, I am so impressed with how some donut shops are creating many versions of this sweet delicious snack.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:572px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd526bbbbc1756404b3542c_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>These deep fried delights are from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoodske/?hl=en">@thegoodske</a> and they taste just as yummy as they look. The donuts are not doughy or claggy and they're made in small batches throughout the day to guarantee they stay fresh and moist. Each one is little and cute with toppings ranging from oreos, to strawberry icing, kitkat, coconut sprinkles, marshmallows or even to more unique flavours like mint choco. Some versions are stuffed to the brim with custard jam or Nutella which will have you begging for more. You can order for all that in one box.I recently tried their ‘bad n boujee’ box of donuts. Soon as I opened the box this amazing chocolatey aroma hit me. Each bite was supple, spongy, thick and absolutely dripping with chocolate. I was blown away by the Chevra donut. It was so soft, stuffed with oozing goodies, covered with chocolate and topped with spicy chevra. I actually never knew that such a thing as Chevra donuts existed! The spicy chevra marries really well with chocolate and the savory sweet flavors.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:590px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd527a40fcfab06d94dcebd_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>I also had their maple bacon donut which had me drooling.Bites of the bacon cutting through the pillow soft dough and sweet maple syrupwas just perfect.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:304px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd527fece1e0eb40506974d_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>I’m so excited to try out more of @thegoodske’s donuts because they seem to have a lot more up their sleeves. Actually, I think I’ll just call them now.4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Big Dayum Heroes Love tacos? @bigdayumheroes serves a lot of it and specializes in more traditional and contemporary tastes.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:588px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd528ac1e560b99b30f3ac0_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Kudos to this joint for fixing amazing tacos that are good for the wallet and leaves a flavor-haunting palate asking for more. The soft corn tortillas are filled with salad and tender, spicy, juicy chicken and each is topped with a different sauce that gives them unique vibes. The tzatziki one which is creamy and garlicky will make your mouth water with delight. My favorite is the coriander chili one which has pepper and herbs adding extra pungency to the taco. Mmmm, I'm licking my lips just thinking about them!<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:307px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd529307382117fc5522f25_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>When I stumbled upon the food truck it was a real surprise because they had set up an outdoor grill where you could get roasted chicken, roasted vegetables, ribs, sweetcorn, sandwiches and buffalo wings. &nbsp;Perfect for bringing to the park or backyard event.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:294px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd529b7fd178221482433d6_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>The spicy glazed chicken with potato salad and some sweet corn will definitely give you that BBQ vibe. 5.&nbsp;The Cookie Bar<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:458px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52a43fb154550914341d1_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Check out these ginormous beauties! These gorgeous cookies are from @thecookieband they are simply massive. Would you believe me if I told you that the cookies are beautifully moist, have a nice crunchy texture to each bite? Yep .And they taste divine.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:480px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52a93065512fdc4a4c6b8_Capture.PNG" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>I’m a fan of chocolate chip and the coconut. The amazing thing about the chocolate chip cookie is that they taste like an explosion of chocolate sweetness in your mouth. The coconut cookies on the other hand make for a delicious flavor because of how its mild and delicate sweetness paves way to a fluffy, crunchy and mildly sweet cookie that is super delectable.

Where to get takeout on your way to a picnic

Barack Obama’s annual summer playlist tweet for 2020 went out just in time for me to compile it and bring it out with me on my walk. Of course, I did not walk for 3 hours and 36 minutes but by the time I was returning home, I had already decided that the phrase that best describes this list is Vintage Hip. &nbsp;My nods gradually turned into bobs and my wry smile widened as I added artists to the playlist I was compiling to share here. &nbsp;I discovered some new artists; learnt that Frank Ocean is back, this time silently after that stunt he pulled in 2016. Bob Dylan has new music. Billy Porter also samples Kelly Rowland’s Stole to create ForWhat It’s Worth which he performed this morning on Day 1 of the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Barack’s list indicates which other artists will be performing at the week-long convention. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f3bd0bb52a68c70f3720ba8_1.jpg"></div></figure>&nbsp;Forgive me for belaboring just how much range 44 has. This list somehow manages to bring out the harmony from a very diverse list of artists and genre. Songs ranging 7 decades from folk music to TikTok hits, this is truly a playlist for everyone, and you can also enjoy it in solitude.&nbsp;Perfect playlist for a nature walk.<a href="https://music.apple.com/ke/playlist/barack-obamas-2020-summer-playlist/pl.u-a6Zuz452Ab">{Link to Playlist}</a><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f3bd19b75b9f81983aea30e_Barack%20Obama_Playlist%202.jpg"></div></figure>‍

Barack Obama’s Vintage Hip 2020 Summer Playlist 

Good hiking is good food for the soul. You get to stretch those muscles, breathe some fresh air and enjoy the scenery. However, a good hike is preceded by good planning or you will wish you never left your house. It is therefore essential to know what to put in your hiking bag before you set foot. We spoke to Robert of outdoors.ke, who gave us some amazing tips that will not only prepare you for your day out but also give assurance of a safe and comfortable hike. Read on.Outdoorer.ke is a company that was started four years ago with the sole aim of helping more people enjoy the outdoors. The team is dedicated to offering affordable and accommodative hiking and camping services. The charges are dependent on the location and duration of the hike or camp. They have scheduled hikes, some fortnightly and others annual. They also offer customized events, tailoring them to meet your needs.According to Robert, what goes in your hike bag depends on the location of your hike, and also the time you’ll spend on the hike. For a day hike, you will need basics, like water, rain gear, snacks, band aids and any emergency meds. Having the right gear in terms of clothing and hiking boots is also key in the making of a successful hike. Walking on rocky or rough terrain in unsuitable gear is not only uncomfortable but poses health risks such as bruises and falls.For an overnight hike and camp, you will need to pack your supplies which include food, warm clothes for the night, and sleeping gear. This is in addition to all the things you pack for a day and vital safety equipment. Below, we have listed the items Robert pointed out as essential for your next hike. Better still, we have added the prices to make your preparation hustle-free. Mountain Equipment And Gear checklist1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 or 2 Thermal tops --for keeping warm, especially at night (From Ksh. 800)<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:600px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fbec059aa750c7cebd03ac3_Thermal%20base%20layer.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Thermal Base layer</figcaption></figure>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 or 2 Thermal bottoms-- for keeping warm, especially at night (From Ksh. 800)3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At least 4 T-shirts. Preferably, polyester material. Avoid cotton.4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 or 3 pairs of trousers (quick dry and light)5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 or 2 Fleece jackets-- for keeping warm while hiking (From Ksh. 1,500)6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 pairs of Fleece pants - for keeping warm while hiking (From Ksh. 1,800)7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 or 2 Rain/windjackets -- waterproof and protects you from wind and rain while hiking (From Ksh. 1,800)8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 or 2 Puff Jackets --for keeping warm at night (From Ksh. 2,500)9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 or 2 pairs of waterproof gloves (From Ksh. 900/pair)<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:600px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fbec0ae7a9618a94ec080b3_Gloves.jpeg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Gloves</figcaption></figure>10. 1 or 2 pairs of woolen gloves -- for keeping warm at night11. 1 Balaclava (monkey hat) -- for protection against wind and frostbite<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fbec114528a43727a7d2fc8_Hat.jpeg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Monkey hat</figcaption></figure>12. 4-6 pairs of thin socks -- for hiking13. 4-6 pairs of thick socks(synthetic or wool) -- for keeping warm at night and during summit day14.&nbsp;A pair of water-proof hiking boots -- go for one size higher to accommodate thick and thin socks(From Ksh. 3,500)15.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sandals or slippers -- to allow your feet to rest after a long day16.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sleeping bag (For sale from Ksh 1,900; for hire at Ksh. 250/day)17.&nbsp;Water bottle (At least2 liters) or Water Bladder (From Ksh. 1,650)18.&nbsp;Hiker’s bag (This contains your gear and is carried for you by the porter) – (For sale from Ksh4,500; for hire at Ksh. 400/day)19.&nbsp;Day pack (your bag having all requirements you will need during the day) From Ksh. 2,50020.&nbsp;Torch (Head torch preferable but not mandatory. Carry spare batteries. LED torches are better than bulb torches.) (From Ksh 900)<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:600px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fbec15359897957af97d1b0_lIGHTING.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Head-torch</figcaption></figure>21.&nbsp;&nbsp;Toiletries (include wet wipes since bathing is difficult at very low temperatures)22.&nbsp;&nbsp;Towel (Small size)23.&nbsp;&nbsp;Energy sweets and snacks --nuts, lunch bars, biscuits and other high-energy snacks24.&nbsp;&nbsp;Painkillers, small bandages, cotton wool for personal first aid25.&nbsp;&nbsp;Poncho (optional if you have a raincoat) -- for protection against rain<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:721px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fbec2414b887a05bc4e8448_RP.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Rain Poncho</figcaption></figure>26. 1 Baseball cap (optional) -- for protection against sunburn27. 1 pair of Sunglasses(optional but recommended) -- for protection against snow glare during summit day28.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sunscreen (optional but highly recommended for fair-skinned people)29.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bandanas or neck gaiters(optional) -- for shielding your neck against wind, sun and frostbite30.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hiking shorts (optional)31.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rain trousers (optional if you have a full-length raincoat)32.&nbsp;Hiking pole/ walking stick (Optional) From Ksh. 1,300&nbsp;Luckily, most of these items are available in their online shop at <a href="https://outdoor.co.ke/">www.outdoor.co.ke </a>or in-store Imenti house, 2nd Floor, Zodiac Stalls Z58, Cabral Street, Nairobi CBD.T o learn more about OutdoorerKe and hiking, check them out at <a href="https://outdoor.co.ke/">https://outdoorer.ke/ </a>‍

Plan your next hike, hustle free!

The streets of Nairobi are looking lush, hey! Come October, Jacaranda trees start to blossom with a purple hue on the backdrop of blue skies. Fallen flowers turn sidewalks and roads into works of art as they knit a violet carpet for pedestrians strolling through the streets.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:768px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f97208a980b598dc2ef35da_f94bad0e-bd31-4684-910b-3a34678327d7.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>If the Jacaranda season is your jam, then you know it’s the perfect time to pull out your favorite styles and enjoy views of the beautiful purple haze. To make sure that you stay looking fresh, we have rounded up some of the chicest outfit ideas and fashion forward accessories that fit the bill.So keep scrolling for a bit of visual and shopping motivation to push the envelope in your jacaranda season outfit game.Floral PrintsIt’s hard to go wrong with floral prints during spring time just as it’s hard to go wrong with sweaters in winter. But at this point, floral prints have worked their way from being just a trend into becoming a staple section of our closets. So whether it’s a wedding or a simple picnic date, we guarantee that you’ll see a couple of dresses on our list that will tickle your fancy and you’ll want to flaunt beyond the jacaranda season. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:455px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f97211f7f95d917fbf240cd_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Dress: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b_trendy254/?hl=en">b_trendy254</a> Ksh. 1700, Slides: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shoes_ke/?hl=en">shoes_ke</a> Ksh. 1800, Straw bag: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vaafricabaskets/?hl=en">vaafricabaskets</a> Ksh. 1800 , Boater Hat: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samuraifashionhouse/?hl=en">samuraifashionhouse </a>Ksh. 1000</figcaption></figure>This beauty is easy to dress up or down and allows for comfort and style all day long. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:495px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f9723ccaa688d59fccf4531_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Dress: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ace_kollections/?hl=en">ace_kollections</a> Ksh. 2000, Earrings:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/romani_jewelry/?hl=en"> romani_jewelry</a> Ksh. 500</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:343px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f97247b0fce617788b264fe_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Shoes: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ladieschoice254_/?hl=en">ladieschoice254_</a> Ksh. 1800</figcaption></figure>‍We stan a floral dress with a flattering belt and this color combination will be hard not to compliment.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:448px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972527f9c5efb13d3d63d0_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Dress: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b_trendy254/?hl=en">b_trendy254</a> Ksh. 1600, Sandals: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/uniquesandals_ke/?hl=en">uniquesandals_ke</a> Ksh. 2200, Rattan Bag: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vaafricabaskets/?hl=en">vaafricabaskets</a> Ksh. 1800, Boater Hat: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samuraifashionhouse/?hl=en">samuraifashionhouse</a> Ksh. 1000</figcaption></figure>If you’re into wearing black, then this dress is for you. This two piece looks way more expensive than 1700. It deserves a lovely brunch with family or friends, and so do you.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f9726924401d48350b667f6_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Two Piece: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ace_kollections/?hl=en">ace_kollections</a> Ksh. 1700</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972730e1af8f13c4a7486a_qq.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Shoes: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/glam_shoes_ke/?hl=en">glam_shoes_ke</a> Ksh. 2800</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:341px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f9727a2f78ee112509ab345_qq.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Earrings: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/romani_jewelry/?hl=en">romani_jewelry</a> Kshs 500</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:551px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972825820af43c5b0cc1b5_qq.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Maxi Dress: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/malikalikenya/?hl=en">malikalikenya</a> Ksh. 1400, Sandals: <a href="https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALeKk02c9mpyTAw-5JAQdCOpchhQnuW4ig%3A1603741911156&ei=1yiXX6ybCe7O1fAPsY-auAQ&q=instagram+elegant+stylez+kenya&oq=instagram+elegant+stylez+kenya&gs_lcp=CgZwc3ktYWIQAzIHCCEQChCgAToECAAQRzoLCAAQsQMQgwEQyQM6CggAELEDEBQQhwI6BQgAELEDOggIABCxAxCDAToICAAQyQMQkQI6BQgAEJECOgIIADoCCC46BQgAEMkDOgYIABAWEB46CAgAEBYQChAeOgkIABDJAxAWEB46CAgAEAgQDRAeOggIIRAWEB0QHjoFCCEQoAFQtxVYz8UCYN3HAmgAcAJ4AIABnASIAY41kgEKMi0xLjE4LjAuMZgBAKABAaoBB2d3cy13aXrIAQjAAQE&sclient=psy-ab&ved=0ahUKEwjs4rOXhNPsAhVuZxUIHbGHBkcQ4dUDCA0&uact=5">elegant_stylez.ke</a> Ksh. 1800, Purse: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebraggybag/?hl=en">thebraggybag</a> Ksh. 2100</figcaption></figure>Made with breathable, carefree fabric, this design will definitely make you standout.Shades of PurpleWhen it comes to incorporating colors into an outfit, purple is typically a bold color choice. For this Jacaranda season, why not try different shades of purple or mix and match with accessories of different colors to add some spice to a head-to-toe outfit. &nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:452px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972a62e56deb7a11ea3d7a_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>&nbsp;Bandage Midi Dress: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b_trendy254/?hl=en">b_trendy254</a> Ksh. 2300, Earrings: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/romani_jewelry/?hl=en">romani_jewelry</a> Ksh. 500</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:322px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972b005d1f9f8317478c43_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Shoes: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shoes_ke/?hl=en">shoes_ke</a> Ksh. 2500</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972b937f32ae31c6b44ed5_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Pouch Bag: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebraggybag/?hl=en">thebraggybag</a> Kshs 4000</figcaption></figure>‍Purple-yellow is definitely a combo you never thought you needed. Draped to flatter your curves, you can pull off this look for meetings or margaritas.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:489px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972c17f4d273860406789a_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Palazzo pants: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ace_kollections/?hl=en">ace_kollections</a> Ksh. 1300, Weaved Mules: <a href="http://Weaved Mules: @house_of_chic_kenya Ksh 2800">house_of_chic_kenya</a> Ksh 2800, Dior Bag: <a href="https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALeKk02c9mpyTAw-5JAQdCOpchhQnuW4ig%3A1603741911156&ei=1yiXX6ybCe7O1fAPsY-auAQ&q=instagram+elegant+stylez+kenya&oq=instagram+elegant+stylez+kenya&gs_lcp=CgZwc3ktYWIQAzIHCCEQChCgAToECAAQRzoLCAAQsQMQgwEQyQM6CggAELEDEBQQhwI6BQgAELEDOggIABCxAxCDAToICAAQyQMQkQI6BQgAEJECOgIIADoCCC46BQgAEMkDOgYIABAWEB46CAgAEBYQChAeOgkIABDJAxAWEB46CAgAEAgQDRAeOggIIRAWEB0QHjoFCCEQoAFQtxVYz8UCYN3HAmgAcAJ4AIABnASIAY41kgEKMi0xLjE4LjAuMZgBAKABAaoBB2d3cy13aXrIAQjAAQE&sclient=psy-ab&ved=0ahUKEwjs4rOXhNPsAhVuZxUIHbGHBkcQ4dUDCA0&uact=5">elegant_stylez.ke</a> Ksh. 2800</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972d1ac59bfe2749866705_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Top: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nessa.fashions/?hl=en">nessa.fashions</a> Ksh. 500</figcaption></figure>This look may seem basic but wide-leg trousers are forward and of the moment. The exaggerated sleeves on the top and weaved sandals complete this effortless outfit. We also recommend matching the pants with an orange top, cardigan or shoes.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972dc2f179eb18ba1537cb_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Wrap Dress: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thrift001_/?hl=en">thrift001_ </a>Ksh. 900, Shoes: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabbellas_kenya/?hl=en">fabbellas_Kenya</a> Ksh. 3200, Bag: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zeetrendy_/?hl=en">zeetrendy_</a> Ksh. 2800</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:462px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972e9e602eaf2879251882_qq.png" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Earrings: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/romani_jewelry/?hl=en">romani_jewelry</a> Ksh. 500</figcaption></figure>This can be the go-to dresses you throw on without thinking twice.&nbsp;You may opt to pair the dress with brown boots to give it some edge.Go whiteForget all the stringent rules and everything you’ve heard about how delicate white outfits are, instead consider combining this neutral color with bold accessories. Incase it’s not warm enough feel free to layer the dresses or jumpsuits with a cream or dark coat. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:485px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f972f41b05e60133cf61bce_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Dress: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b_trendy254/?hl=en">b_trendy254</a> Ksh. 1800, Sandals: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/uniquesandals_ke/?hl=en">uniquesandals_ke</a> Ksh. 1000, Tote Bag: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/_treasured_gems/?hl=en">_treasured_gems</a> Ksh. 6000, Boater Hat: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samuraifashionhouse/?hl=en">samuraifashionhouse</a> Ksh. 1000</figcaption></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:449px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f9730747c562b27eb916097_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Sunnies: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/feurhome_ke/?hl=en">feurhome_ke</a> Ksh. 800</figcaption></figure>Don’t be afraid to experiment with boots or strappy heels.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:608px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f97310101d1ad94a1f4a71e_qq.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Jumpsuit: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/malikalikenya/?hl=en">malikalikenya</a> Ksh. 1600, Shoes: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shoes_ke/?hl=en">shoes_ke</a> Ksh. 1500, Box bag: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebraggybag/?hl=en">thebraggybag</a> Ksh. 3500, Hat: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/samuraifashionhouse/?hl=en">samuraifashionhouse</a> Ksh. 900, Shades: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/feurhome_ke/?hl=en">feurhome_ke</a> Ksh. 500</figcaption></figure>‍A jumpsuit can be fun too. The addition of an eye-catching floral box bag ties this sophisticated look together.Don’t forget to share pictures of your jacaranda season inspired look and tag <a href="http://@thepicnicsite_ke">@thepicnicsite_ke</a>‍

Chicest ways to achieve a fresh look this Jacaranda season

<a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/ideal-picnic-locations-across-kenya">Picnics</a> and <a href="">outdoor brunch </a>require minimum-effort, high-impact makeup that won't look caky or melt off your face; but rather allow you to feel the fresh breeze on your skin especially if you have been cooped up indoors for long. Not to mention, having to wear a face mask on top of heavy makeup as you make your way to your picnic site is just not feasible.So forget the full coverage foundation, smoky eyes, wedged liner and red lipstick. Instead, go for a light concealer, moisturizing lipstick or gloss, waterproof mascara and an eyeliner.The aim here is to highlight your natural features, conceal flaws and blemishes if any- all to reveal a fresh and lively appearance. You want to maintain a subtle look because the sunshine makes heavy makeup look more apparent. Don’t forget your sunscreen for high level protection from ultraviolet rays because despite the coolness, the nose, cheeks and chin can get burnt.Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to achieve sun-kissed picnic look in just 10 minutes.Prepare before makeup (1 minutes):1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Clean face with warm water or a cleanser.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Apply toner followed by a moisturizer, spread evenly to T-zone and neck.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Apply SPF sunscreen with special attention under the eyes. This blocks off 97% of UVB rays.Face(5 minutes):1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Begin with the concealer applying a few lines on the chin, under eye and T-zone. Using concealer instead of a foundation keeps the makeup light.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Splash some setting spray on a sponge and blend. This trick helps the concealer absorb evenly without looking caky while hiding fine lines and large pores.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Use what is left on the sponge to blend around the forehead and nose.4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Add translucent setting powder under the eye using the same sponge.5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Grab a neutral shade of bronze or soft highlight and lightly brush on top of your cheek bones and temple. 6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; To add a peachy glow to your face, go in with a light blush using an air pro brushBrows(2 minutes):1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Runa brown brow mascara or eye pencil through the eyebrow to define its shape.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Take a little concealer using a small brush to clean up any mascara marks on the skin.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As needed, use tweezers to remove extra hairs4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Set the brow with brow gel to keep hair in place. This is especially helpful if you have messy brows.5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Do the same for the other brow.Eyes(1 minute)1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lift your lashes with black mascara2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Apply eyelinerLips(1 minute)1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; To complete the look, apply a thin layer of contour lip pencil to define the lips.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Then add a beige or a natural berry lip gloss to protect your lips when outside.Sprinkle a protective spray for more durability of makeup and you’re ready for the picnic!&nbsp;‍

Quick sun-kissed makeup for a picnic  

After a week-long of meetings and beating office deadlines, the outdoors are always refreshing. And we are suckers for great outdoor experiences; always out there trying out new activities and discovering new places to hangout. Our latest discovery is the Xina Horse Riding and Stables in Kiambu along Ridgeways Road. The place is calm and ideal to anyone who wants out from the hustle and bustle of the city.When we got there, we were treated to a warm reception and our meal orders taken. They have a wide range of cuisines on their menu to choose, delicately prepared by their in-house chef on order. As we waited for our orders, we took a trip around the stables.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:2250px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f96aea533e01cb2810bb92d_IMG_9644-opt.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure> At Xina, there are a total of four horses, four ponies and one cob all notably clean and healthy. They are divided into three categories, the big, medium and small for easier allocation to those seeking to ride them. They are allocated depending on the size and age of the rider. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1500px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f96ae3228fe3c0d749f6240_1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Our order was ready in no time and as we sat to eat, Wairimu Githuka, Director Xina Horse Riding, patiently took us through the activities they offer and what they are about. “Xina is a result of our love for the outdoors and our belief that kids should grow around animals-any kind of animals. Animals teach children responsibilities. We are also about breaking the stereotype that horse-riding belongs to a certain social class,” she says. “We chose horse riding because the activity is therapeutic. It is hard work but a very relaxing activity. It also helps with physical fitness,” she continues. Apart from the horse-riding lessons, they offer training for unique horse sports such as polo, horse-racing, dressage and show jumping. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1500px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f96adb97334bb2aae0d9441_2.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>‍On what sets them apart from the rest of horse riding schools, Wairimu says they are very particular about safety. “Our safety standards are very high. We put safety before the profit and as such, we provide full protective gear to children included in the package. Our prices are also quite affordable as compared to competition”. You can check out their pricing and packaging <a href="https://www.facebook.com/XinaStables/">here</a> . Xina also gives parents an environment where they can leave their kids for a while as they run errands. Parents can leave their kids for up to four hours during which they are taught how to care for the horses, feed them, groom them, communicate with them and ultimately ride them. There is so much for kids as young as three years to learn. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1066px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f96adfd7334bbf28f0e04ff_4.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Wairimu says that the horse riding culture is picking and parents are signing up their children for lessons and this just shows how much Kenyans are embracing the outdoor culture. Parents are also going out of their way to give their kids the experiences they never had growing up. While the activities here are mostly kid-centered, there’s a lot for adults to learn as well. This we discovered when we finally took the horse-ride.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1599px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f96af4a64750a5c2be63b95_IMG_9672-opt.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>We had a brief introductory session from Macharia, arguably the best horse riding trainer in the country. He taught us the basic dos and don’ts of horse riding. He then took us through all the parts on a horse involved during riding before we actually got to the riding. The experience was harder than we expected but it was very exciting. This is one activity that requires a lot of flexibility and the aftermath was waking up the following morning with sore thighs and butts. In Macharia’s words, kids tend to learn horse riding faster as compared to adults due to their flexibility. Apart from the warm reception, good food and an exciting experience, the washrooms- which pose a headache to most parents in mass gatherings, in this facility are very clean. If you wish to alternate that bouncing castle date with something else, we’d highly recommend the Xina Horse Riding School and Stables. ‍

The horses neigh, bring the kids to the stables 

It’s really happening, guys. The third wave of COVID-19 is here with us.We’re in a second lockdown, and we have no idea how long this curfew is going to last this time. We have to try and take the lessons from the last lockdown, exactly a year ago, into this one, as best as we can. <blockquote class="ql-align-justify">And what did we learn? Well, I don’t know about you, but I learnt that I like being outside more than I originally thought I did. Having the option to even go to the supermarket is something I had no idea I felt so strongly about! And who knew that tissue would become such an important commodity in such a short period of time?﻿</blockquote><blockquote class="ql-align-justify"> </blockquote>Kenyans are nothing if not adaptable. Within weeks everyone was masking up and using sanitizers. We barely even hug each other now – we only&nbsp;gota,&nbsp;or wave, which honestly, is kind of great if you’re not a very social person, I confess. People were and are trying really hard to take care of each other in the middle of a pandemic – and we tried even harder to take care of ourselves. That little thing I talked about earlier, wanting to be outside, but also not wanting to put anyone at risk? We adapted to that too. Did you notice how many events and interactions, within the past year, have moved to the big open spaces all around us? Kenya is lucky in that our country generally has a beautiful ‘outside’ – whether you’re talking about walking on the pristine beaches of Diani (how I miss Diani!) or cruising the desert sands at the Chalbi, or finding a quiet memorial park right at the heart of the city to just sit with your friends, be socially distanced and hang out. We’re fortunate that we have access to these places, and in spite of us being locked down, we can still go to them. Picnics, of course, became super popular as our various lockdowns wore on. There were a lot of events and spaces, restaurants, and even personal chefs catering to those people who were fighting cabin fever and grabbing joy where they could find it during Corona. It’s interesting to watch people fit and figure out what they can and cannot do now; whereas beforehand, all it took to go outside was a decision and a WhatsApp group, now, you have to consider, in a very deliberate way: where are we going? Who can come? How many people are we allowed to have? What will we bring? That last question is particularly important now because you can’t order at restaurants or bars. You’re either doing takeout in your car or cooking at home and using food tins and hotpots to carry around food. But how are you carrying them around?The great thing about the Vintage Picnics hampers is that it allows you to eliminate trying to manoeuvrer how to carry those hotpots! And each hamper has a certain number of people for it, so literally, all you have to do is bring yourself and the good eats. Yes, the hamper covers plates, cutlery, and a picnic blanket all wrapped into one, but also caters to some things a little more decadent and enjoyable for a perfect afternoon: if you want a bit of wine, there are wine glasses and a stand for your convenience. If you’re a cheese connoisseur, there’s a mini cheese board to put your jams and grapes and cheeses, or whatever delicious accompaniment you have decided on for your meal. So however you choose to take a break for self-care in these times or do a date night – date day! – or see your homegirls, Vintage Picnics has a hamper for it – for rent, or for sale – so that you can still enjoy everything Kenya has to offer, safely. What’s not to like? <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1618254263/DSC_08384_09ec28f4bf.jpg">

large_IMG_9320.jpg

medium_IMG_9320.jpg

small_IMG_9320.jpg

thumbnail_IMG_9320.jpg

IMG_9320.jpg

Here Are The Lessons I'm Bringing With Me After The First Lockdown

<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:492px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8edef87bc9ed9ef586c9_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Rakesh Young Okuku is the founder of Baiskeli Adventures - a cycling tour company that organizes cycling trips across different parts of the country. Having spent the last 30 days on his bike touring the countryside, TPS catches up with Rakesh and he shares his experience going solo for a cross-country bike ride.</figcaption></figure>Tell us about this particular trip?&nbsp;I've been cycling for the last one month from Nairobi heading to and exploring the western side of Kenya. Currently I’m in Port Victoria but my next destination from here is Kakamega. I have gone through Suswa, Naivasha, Mau Narok, Njoro, Maili Sita (Nakuru), Lake Solai, Subukia, Lake Bogoria, Tenges, Nyaru, Kipkabus, Nandi Hills, Kisumu, NdereIsland, Mbita, Mfangano Island, Usenge, Mageta Island and River Yala.&nbsp;&nbsp;How many kilometers do you plan to cover?I have no set distance in mind for this but daily I ride between 50-100km depending on the specific destination of the day and how I feel. This is more of an easy tour, for once. Previously, I'd ride 150km plus per day on 5-day trips.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:451px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8c9d5254084a2a397fd7_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>What’s the longest distance you’ve covered?In a day, 180km (but not in this particular tour). In a week, 930km.&nbsp;Do you stay in hotels on your bike rides?&nbsp;I do a mix of camping and cheap lodging. I carry a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat but if I feel too worn out, I stay in a hotel.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:600px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8cdc94e910c6388a3366_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;How do you prepare yourself for an epic bike ride? The biggest component is the mental preparedness. I have to envision myself completing the whole tour before setting out because only then can I feel confident enough to start. I plot outa rough route picking random locations on the map and saying I want to go here and here and here then try to connect them using the roads I see on the map. However, I also prefer to leave a whole lot of the route to chance, let it surprise me. For one, I prefer dirt roads over tarmac roads. The more mysterious or remote the route seems, the more appealing it is to me. &nbsp;And what's in your bag?Currently, on top of my camping equipment, I'm carrying a change of clothes (2 t-shirts, 2 pairs of shorts, a pair of trousers, 2 sets of cycling clothing, a pair of shoes, a warm sweater, several pairs of socks, a pair of sandals, a rain jacket, camp light and basic toiletries.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:610px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8d51f87bc916e5f47292_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>What makes you believe that you'll make it (cross-country)?I suppose it's experience that's given me the confidence. I've been doing solo bike touring since 2014 so I'm confident in my physical and mental capabilities. I also trust my equipment. I have a sturdy mountain bike that's taken me over many treacherous trails comfortably.&nbsp;&nbsp;What landscapes have impressed you? Any places you’d like to revisit?Oh they are too many to count. The most surprising ones though were on the route from Kongoni (Naivasha) to Mau Narok; going around Menengai Crater from Olorongai; riding along Lake Solai or descending into Subukia Valley; and climbing the 24 hairpins from Chebutei to Nyaru. But ultimately, nothing beats the views across Lake Victoria especially at sunset, be it atop Gembe Hill or on any of the islands.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:623px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8dc20a44c1f10aba7eb5_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>What challenges have you faced so far?Besides occasional bad weather(rainstorms) and a case of stomach flu, I've had my phone stolen by a young man I requested to take a photo of me on Gembe Hill. I turned my back on him for a few minutes and he simply took off downhill with my phone. It was actually hilarious. Thankfully, that was my old phone though it had a better camera than my new one.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:677px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8e047d118d6c379d556b_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;Are there a lot of people taking up biking? How are they pushing themselves to cover more kms?Oh the cycling community has grown tremendously in the recent years and even more this year, fueled by theCovid-19 situation I believe. Lots of people are keen to push their bodies to the limits and then some more just to see what they are made of. I know a couple of guys who cycled from Nairobi to Mombasa (approximately 500km) in under 24hrs. Actually 15hrs to be precise. That aside, cycling for 100km+distances has become a weekend norm for most people now.&nbsp;&nbsp;How often do you manage to get out on your bike?I get out as frequently as I can and want; really since it's also my job. I used to commute with my bike in Nairobi a lot more before but I see myself getting more inclined towards trail and cross country riding instead. It's more peaceful this way.&nbsp;&nbsp;Do you go cycling by yourself or in a group?I cycle alone when I need to unwind and discover places. I do group rides for work.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:560px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f6c8e5f85c2a575da898d33_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img></div></figure>Do you listen to music when cycling?Oh yes, but only on days when the mood is low and I need a little motivation to keep going. I usually prefer not to listen to music while riding because I like concentrating on the voices within my surroundings.&nbsp;&nbsp;How do you see the impact of Covid-19 as you pass through the countryside?There are many remote places where tourism as well as local businesses have been severely affected. A shopkeeper in Kamukunji, Solai area, told me how since the pandemic begun, his sales at the shop have dropped as people now struggle to prioritize their expenditures. Many hotels and attraction sites I visit also speak of a decline in visitor numbers this year. However, the more interior I go, the more I realize that the curfews, physical distancing and mask-wearing protocols don't seem to apply.&nbsp;‍

30 days around the countryside with Baisikeli Adventures

Every year different Kenyan cities get to experience the beauty that comes with the blooming of Jacaranda trees and from as early as September, Kenyans are able to enjoy the purple haze that dot their cities.I too decided to join the party this year.Though to be honest my ticket to the party was in the form of an assignment.&nbsp;This past weekend I was on a mission to spot jacaranda trees around Kisumu city and take pictures of them for our #jacarandapropaganda project. In Kenya, the trend was started around 4 years ago by <a href="https://twitter.com/Nanjala1">@Nanjala1</a> (Nanjala Nyabola) on twitter.&nbsp;Initially it first felt like just another field work under the hot sun but the more I continued spotting the trees boasting of their pretty purple flowers the more intrigued I became and ditched the whole ‘this is just another field work’ mentality.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1920px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fac2ce2fc5055617ee87033_jacaranda-268926_1920.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Photo Courtesy </figcaption></figure>Before I left home, I had a few ideas on where to spot them, Milimani estate being one of them of course. Though to be certain I had to confirm with Google though the information was scanty.&nbsp; Luckily I managed to find a tour guide, a friend of mine who is well versed with the area more than I am. In my defense I haven’t been around that area since 2017, I digress.&nbsp;We selected Milimani estate as our main focus area because that’s the one location we were sure we would see the blooming jacaranda trees.&nbsp;After a few trips around the estate, we were able to spot a few trees along Nehru road, Busia road and Got Huma road. With some growing in clusters and others alone yet proudly wearing their purple crowns.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:960px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fac2d33ac5336f483b5d41d_JT.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div><figcaption>Photo Courtesy </figcaption></figure>We later went to Jamhuri Victoria park located Off Achieng Oneko - Ridoch Road, which I think should be renamed to purple haze park or something in that line given how the Jacaranda trees hug the park with their bell-shaped leaves swaying above majestically to the rhythm of the wind.&nbsp;The trees have also dominated inside the park setting a great picnic scene decorated by its purple carpet from the fallen leaves.&nbsp; An added advantage is that the park is quite peaceful especially with everyone relaxing as vendors sell their goods.&nbsp;Shifting over to the Great Rift Valley, Nakuru, jacaranda trees are perfectly lined along old Nairobi road and Solai road forming purple umbrellas decorating the roads. While driving through the town, one can also spot the trees in people’s compounds, churches, schools like shiners girls high school as well as next to restaurants, petrol stations along the Nakuru-Nairobi road.&nbsp;<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1920px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fac2d6e095c050733a02e61_jacaranda-537027_1920.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Photo Courtesy </figcaption></figure>Over to the capital city, Nairobi, her residents have been able to enjoy the purple rain as early as September. In areas such as Karen, Kilimani, Tom Mbeya street, Upperhill, Kenyatta avenue, Railway museum, Jevanjee Gardens, Koinange street- just to mention a few, Nairobians are being treated to breathtaking sceneries. On social media, they are not shy when it comes to sharing photos of these trees, in their full glory and bloom.&nbsp;On the Nothern region of Kenya, Marsabit to be specific, the jacaranda trees in that area also gracefully take part in #jacarandapropaganda. The trees form a line venturing deep into Marsabit forest.&nbsp;And on the Eastern region, residents of Wamunyu town in Machakos County also get to bask in the glory of Jacaranda trees every October.&nbsp;

#JacarandaPropaganda:  Fifty shades of purple across Kenya 

Our mothers are the reason most of us have made it this far in life. You know how mothers are constantly giving? Sometimes even putting their own needs aside to cater to their near and dear?&nbsp; Why don’t we switch things up a bit and treat Mama like the Queen she is?You can make a special meal plan for Mum this Sunday.&nbsp; As you do this, take into consideration any special dietary needs that she may have, and also be sure to prepare something that she is sure to enjoy.&nbsp; Mama has always served you healthy, wholesome meals with a touch of love.&nbsp; You can still keep it healthy and wholesome for Mama, by recreating classic recipes.&nbsp;We have two ideas for Mama’s treat this Sunday – blueberry pancakes and chicken marsala .&nbsp;Blueberries are one of nature’s superfoods – low in calories and high in nutrients.&nbsp; Chicken marsala is a flavourful dish combining the best of American and Italian cuisine that Mama will definitely enjoy (either at lunch or dinner time)&nbsp;Blueberry pancakes<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620480019/1_cee4eb5cef.jpg" alt=""></figure>Ingredients1 ¾ cups self-rising flour2 tbsp. sugar½ tsp vanilla extract1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries½ tsp salt2 large eggs1 cup of milk1 cup sour cream1 stick butter, melted½ tsp lemon zestMethodSift the flour, sugar, and salt into a large mixing bowl. In a separate large bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. Add the milk, sour cream, half the melted butter and the vanilla, whisking to blend. Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour the egg mixture into it. Whisk the ingredients together just until blended. Fold the blueberries and lemon zest into the batter.&nbsp;Heat a large pan over medium heat and coat with some of the remaining melted butter. For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the hot skillet. Cook 3 or 4 pancakes at a time, depending on the size of the skillet. If the batter seems too thick, thin it with 1 to 2 tablespoons milk. When bubbles begin to form and "pop" on the pancake's surface, after about 1 minute, and the outer edge looks done, flip it over and cook briefly for about 30 seconds on the other side.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620480261/2_2c3d4d207d.jpg" alt=""></figure>You can serve with tea, milk or coffee depending on her preference.&nbsp;Dinner &nbsp;Chicken marsala<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620480512/3_522626f44f.jpg" alt=""></figure>Ingredients2-4 boneless chicken breast halves1 tsp salt, and ground black pepper to taste3 tsp butter, divided2 tbsp. olive oil5-10 white mushrooms sliced1 shallot onion, minced1 tbsp. all-purpose flour1 cup marsala wine2 cups chicken stock2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley1 tsp cold butterMethodSeason chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper.Melt 1 1/2 tablespoons butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts, skin-side down, in hot butter and oil until browned, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook until breasts are almost cooked through, about 5 minutes more. Transfer chicken breasts to a plate.Melt 1 1/2 tablespoons butter in the same pan over medium-high heat. Sauté mushrooms with a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper in hot butter until mushrooms are golden, 5 to 7 minutes. Add minced shallot; cook and stir until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the top and cook and stir until the bitterness of the flour cooks off, 3 to 4 minutes.Pour wine into pan and bring to a boil; cook and stir until wine reduces and sauce thickens, 3 to 4 minutes. Add chicken stock; bring to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced, 3 to 5 minutes more.Return chicken breasts to the pan, reduce heat to low, and cook chicken, turning once, until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.Remove the chicken from the pan, leaving the sauce.Stir parsley and 1 teaspoon cold butter into the sauce, stirring constantly, until sauce is shiny and butter is completely melted.&nbsp;Serve the chicken breasts to plates and spoon mushrooms and sauce over the top.Let us know what Mama thinks.&nbsp; Happy cooking!

small_4.jfif

thumbnail_4.jfif

4.jfif

Mother’s Day Is Almost Here.  What’s cooking?  And Who’s Cooking?

Our picture-perfect picnic this past Sunday almost&nbsp;ended prematurely.&nbsp; We got off to a late start after the heavy downpour the previous night.&nbsp; As the sun broke through the cloudy sky, the parasols went up, creating an aesthetically appealing atmosphere complete with bright-colored mats and overlays, food hampers and great music.&nbsp; Our guests had just completed their first task of the day and settled down to sample the charcuteries and cocktails that they had meticulously created.&nbsp; The Digital Weatherman had assured us that the heavenly taps would open in another 3 hours or so, and we were happily soaking in the lively atmosphere when the skies unexpectedly released a sudden and steady drizzle, disrupting our pristine programme.Once it started to drizzle, the music stopped, as the sound crew sought shelter for their pricey equipment; instinctively, everyone reached out for the priceless possessions, securing them safely under the parasol; two of the parties sought shelter in an adjacent hall, while the other three braved it out under the parasols.&nbsp; Some expertly projecting their gazes skywards and proclaiming that ‘this was rain was just passing by”.&nbsp; As we “waited for the rain to pass” we enjoyed the canapes, cocktails and conversations, indoors and under parasols.&nbsp; Thankfully, the day did not go to waste, and soon enough the rain stopped, the music came back on, and the party continued into the late afternoon.&nbsp;Looking back, I can safely say: do not let the rain reign on your parade; trust the weatherman, but also prepare for the unexpected. Remember, what they said about planning for a rainy day? Here are six guidelines to help you make the most of a rain-drenched picnic:Relax and embrace itYour attitude and ability to adapt to the rain is what determines how the picnic experience will go under the circumstances. The first thing you need to do is to hold the perspective that it is a small shower that will pass so taking down the whole set up or canceling the day as a total wash out should not be an option..&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620839747/Cheers_1387dbcda9.jpg" alt=""></figure>Go undercoverHave a look at your surroundings with a brighter perspective in order to create some quick solutions. Your priority is to identify a dry spot where you can temporarily relocate to. If there are kids around, you’ll also have to improvise a temporary and secure rain shelter.&nbsp;Consider investing in an outdoor canopy or a picnic umbrella which can serve as shelter to protect you from the elements. With a canopy you can easily rearrange things to fit in under and still havet enough room for everyone to take shelter. The good thing about it is that its practical and you can easily peg it into the ground without needing the support of trees.Keep your picnic accessories dryYou might want to grab any vulnerable picnic gear that can get damaged by being exposed to water such as cushions, baskets, sling chairs and stereo system and relocate them to the identified dry spot until the rain stops.&nbsp;You could also cover the gear with plastic bags to shield them from getting drenched. Trash bags can also be quite handy because you could also use the same to make ponchos to keep you dry.Layer up&nbsp;As it starts to get chilly, layer up with long sleeved clothing or blankets. The most suitable clothing for picnics are those that are made from breathable fabric like nylon, polyester or wool rather than 100% cotton which absorbs water, making it difficult to dry up. The rule of the thumb, thought, is to stay dry, rather than drying out after getting rain-soaked.Enjoy the food, hearty conversations and the view<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1620839682/p_IC_afd73c7189.jpg" alt=""></figure>There’s nothing that gets you cozied up like delicious snacks (sandwiches, cheese, nuts, grapes) on a rainy day. If you are concerned about the food getting cold or soggy, pack it inside tightly sealed containers or a cooler and keep the party going.&nbsp;Sip your wine, mimosa, whiskey or juice as you enjoy the therapeutic view and sound of rain drops. Be warned, though - the alcohol may warm your heart but blur your memory when taken in copious quantities.Keep the music playingPart of enjoying a picnic is getting entertained through good music which will irresistibly get you dancing the chills away. We actually have the perfect playlist for you. Click&nbsp;<a href="https://thepicnicsite.co.ke/categories/5f168dd02f926a0118f87534">here</a> to visit our Songbook and find some of our favorite mixes. This could also be a great opportunity to play cards or board games.&nbsp;Remember, if you get it right, rain can actually be the magical ingredient that makes your picnic a memorable event.

large_pIC.jpg

medium_pIC.jpg

small_pIC.jpg

thumbnail_pIC.jpg

pIC.jpg

Here’s How To Stop The Rain From Ruining Your Perfect Picnic

Choosing a hydration vest for running might be challenging given the fact that options are endless. Whether you like hiking, going for daily jogs, cycling, you’ll need a pack that is substantial, easy to carry and sizeable for all the essentials, be it snacks, fluids, your phone etc.How to choose the best optionWhen choosing a hydration vest, there are certain things you need to consider. You will need a vest that offers maximum comfort. The shoulder, chest and waist straps should offer you that. When it comes to the shoulder straps, they need to be padded and wide enough allowing it to distribute weight evenly. As for the fit, it would be best to consider how the vest feels on your back and how well it compliments your natural position. The capacity of the vest matters too. Depending on how much you like to carry while on a hike, trailing or cycling. A 5-12litres vest usually offers more than enough room to fit all your belongings- be keen not to over pack. Here is our budget friendly option you can consider while shopping for hydration vests:Topspeed 5L lightweight Multipurpose hydration vestBest for cycling, Hiking and running.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:2500px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f95cc36ee9ba48db944f34d_running.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Features:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2L Water bladder included in the price.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Super-light elastic fabric to help you go farther every time. Empty weight: ~260 grams.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Breathable back and shoulder straps for maximum comfort.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reflective edges to keep you safe while cycling or jogging at night.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Empty capacity: 5L.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Extendable capacity in shoulder strap pockets can fit additional small items.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Available in black, red and grey.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Price: Ksh2799/=.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Where to purchase: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/outdoorer.ke/?hl=en">outdoorer.ke </a>‍

A budget friendly Hydration Vest for your next hiking adventure 

Game drives are a fantastic way to connect with nature and wildlife and appreciate their true beauty. However, deciding on what to wear might be quite a challenge sometimes. While selecting what to wear, you need to factor in that you will be sitting most of the time during the drive and so the main key is being comfortable. Here are outfit options and where to shop them for your next drive: Midi dress &amp; safari hatMidi dresses have proven to be chic and a perfect choice for summer times. However, while going for a drive, you need to lean towards the khaki or linen side. Both fabrics are cool and perfect for the hot temperatures. To accessorize, add a safari hat in order to elevate your look. Making you look chic while having a great time embracing nature.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fa29c46f078fef350f3c_2.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>If you are looking to cop one, you can get a variety at <a href="https://wearvelvet.com/product/watamu-midi/">Velvet Kenya</a> as for the sunhat you can get them at <a href="https://www.langatalinkshops.com/product/kristy-hat/">Langata link shop</a>.Jumpsuits&amp; sneakersThe beauty of jumpsuits is that they are comfortable, practical and stylish. For a game drive, it would be best to go for the khaki type given how comfortable they are. Pair it with a good pair of sneakers and you are set to enjoy the drive. Tsavo two pieceThe <a href="https://wearvelvet.com/product/tsavo-two-piece/">Tsavo two piece</a> by Velvetx Hali is also an ideal choice to add onto your game drive wardrobe. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fa1c2fbdcc762f78e39e_Tsavo-1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>The set looks simple and chic and can be worn different ways depending on your style. SunglassesBe sure not to forget your sunglasses. And in case you don’t have a pair, you can always get affordable ones either from Mr. Price or Miniso. ScarvesTemperatures tend to fluctuate dramatically during game drives, so layers—and scarves—are key.Backpacks<a href="https://www.langatalinkshops.com/product/backpacks/">Backpacks</a> are also an essential during outdoor trips. You should opt for one that is easy to carry around and can fit your necessities like, phone, bottle of water, wet wipes just to mention a few. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f87fa6d16f94b5bee230e7f_1.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>In order to be on the safe side be sure to the check out the weather update on that day, it will help guide you on what to wear. &nbsp;Also its important to note that you shouldn’t wear bright colored clothes while on a game drive. Its distracting to the animals. ‍

Look, we have got you that safari look plug!

Honestly 2020 has been a rough year. This is something we all agree on, no debates. And even though the year is coming to an end, we are somehow grateful but cautious about the coming year. All the same, this should not stop us from unwinding and making the best out of this festive season. If you are looking to get out into the world without sacrificing all the comfort from home, then glamping should be at the top of your list. It has easily become a trend in the travel world over the past few years and most hotels and resorts are jumping aboard with aesthetically pleasing rooms and tents for an ultimate glamping experience. Here are a few glamping sites you can find across the country<a href="https://www.segera.com/">Segera Retreat</a><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1475px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52fdc1b6de9636fd66582_segera%20retreat.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Luxury has no limit at Segera Retreat.Located in the heart of Laikipia, the wildlife sanctuary and eco safari retreat aims to offer guests a magical experience in the wild. &nbsp;The retreat offers four types of accommodations: A farmhouse, Segera house, Villa Segera and the garden villa which comprises of 6 garden villas. &nbsp;The houses and villas have aesthetically pleasing layout ad interior décor which differs from most eco retreats layout. Some of the activities that one can do while at the retreat include: game drives, wild picnics, outdoor cinema, gathering wild honey just to mention a few. The retreat also boasts of well trained and experienced game drivers who are well versed with wild animals and the sanctuary at large.Their current 2020 accommodation rates are US$ 1485 per person sharing per night during the low season and US$ 1760 per person sharing during the high season. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The rock and sea bubble ecolodge<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1200px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52f4515146591d8d5cfba_Bubble%20hotel%20watamu.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>When the sandy beaches call we have no choice but to listen. If you are looking to try something new from the normal hotels and resorts at the coast, the rock and sea bubble ecolodge in Watamu promises to offer you an unforgettable experience. The bubble lodges are not only bubble shaped but also fully made of glass offering you a new outdoor experience. Honestly, nothing seems exciting as sleeping in a glass bubble while admiring the beautiful well displayed stars in the sky. The ecolodge also has an amazing panoramic restaurant built on a coral rock at over 40 metres above sea level. &nbsp;Some of the activities at the ecolodge include: snorkeling, sea diving, kayaking and kite surfing among other interesting activities. The accommodation rates depend on the type of lodge or tent you select.Entumoto safari campThe private tented safari camp is title refers to meeting point in the Maa language. The title is inspired by the location of the camp where the plains meet the hills and where valleys come together. Located in the hills of the Rift valley, Entumoto offers its guests breath taking views and sunsets over the Mara plains. Some of the activities in the camp include, game drives, cultural trips, sundowners, open air bush meals and other interesting activities.They are currently offering three nights for 2 for the rest of 2020. Most of their rates are tailored for all-inclusive deals. Mara Explorer<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5fd52f92718dbb474ac49248_mara%20explorer.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure>Located in the very heart of Maasai Mara National Reserve, the 10 luxury tents offer guests prime views of the game as well as the yearly wildebeest migration which takes place between July and September. Guests also get to see herds of elephants and rhinos from the luxury of their verandas.The tents have been uniquely designed to open up to the sky and, on a deck on one side, a Victorian claws-foot bathtub which offers secluded open-air bathing – and a unique new perspective of the African bush.Both the luxury twin tent and luxury double tents rate start from $610 all inclusive. &nbsp;&nbsp;‍

The festive season is here, we are going glamping 

What to wear to an outdoor book club<div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n0zJuAjDuS0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Once again it’s that time of the month for your book club meeting and this time round, your club members have decided to meet outdoors. The outdoors set a refreshing scene for any kind of meeting, good vibes, great conversations a glass of wine and book reviews.However, you might be wondering what to wear and so here are four easy style ideas to keep you looking both casual and polished when you go for the meeting. You might also decide to mix or swap some of the fits with each other to suit you.&nbsp;Short, t-shirt, converseShorts and outdoors go well together. Not only do they make you feel young, comfortable and free but they also make your legs look good. Add a graphic tee, a pair of converse or any of your favourite sneakers and sunglasses to complete the look. Pack your book, wallet phone and few necessary items that you may need in your fave kiondoo and you are good to go. Remember your mask too!<figure class="image"><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f2effd49f29b738268d48d8_Untitled-2.jpg"></figure>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@angelabaileyy?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Angela Bailey</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/clothes?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>Jeans, cardigan, flatsThis look is super simple and comfortable. Pair your favourite jeans with chic ballet flats, a top and a cardigan. It is the ultimate go-to outfit for when you are late but still want to look put together. Alternatively, if it's a super-hot day you can trade your cardigan for your favourite kimono. Don’t forget your tote bag.T-shirt dress converse comboThe t-shirt dress and converse combo have proven to be one of the most stylish yet comfortable combos. Because it is a simple fit you can accessorize with a simple pair of mini gold earrings, a few midi rings and a sling bag that fits your book of the month wallet and phone.Mom JeansIn case you would like to drift away from your regular skinny jeans you can always go for the mom jeans. Mom jeans have proven to be the most versatile and timeless pieces of clothing you can own. There are so many different ways of styling them. You can opt to style it with a chunky bright sweater and sneakers for a warm look. Or you could pair it with a beautiful coloured or print blouse with a pair of mules for a well-put fit. Whatever style you choose to go with you will definitely look great and be comfortable at the same time.‍

What to wear to an outdoor book club

We’ve been on a sort of a prolonged holiday, since the pandemic landed and our children have almost exhausted all the means we had to keep them busy indoors. And while outside is not as safe as we used to know it to be, kids can still have some fun engaging in some outdoor activities. Just remember to mask them and remind them to observe social distance while outside.Here, we have compiled an exciting list of fun activities your children could engage in:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roller skatingFor this one, you don’t even have to take your kid(s) out of town… not even out of your estate. If you have skates at home, you can skate the afternoon away on that smooth path next to your house. Just beware of traffic. If you live in Nairobi and/or its environs, you should consider taking the young one(s) to the Aga khan Walk on a Sunday afternoon. Here they will meet other skaters of all ages, something that is bound to excite them and make them competitive at the same time. You'll be surprised to see the prowess of even five year olds in that field here. The beauty of this is that you can either carry your roller skaters or even hire if the visit was unplanned.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ice skatingYou thought you could only ice skate in Iceland? Well, there is an ice rink at the Panari Hotel along Mombasa Road where you can go for that experience. The ice rink that operates on alternate hours is usually open from morning to evening. Ice skates are provided once payment is made, and there are also guides to help the learners here. Remember to carry jackets, and a pair of socks for the children, it can be a bit chilly. Maybe a change of clothes, because they might fall on the ice too. You can also enroll your children for ice hockey lessons, and also ‘ice dancing’ lessons-like in Frozen.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;BowlingMost of us have only seen this in the movies, right? The experience has been brought closer to us now and we have no excuse. You can take the children to Village market - <a href="https://villagemarket-kenya.com/">https://villagemarket-kenya.com/</a>,or the Nextgen mall- <a href="https://www.nextgen.co.ke/">https://www.nextgen.co.ke/</a>,for this. This is probably a good experience for the older children aged 10 years and above. The beauty of these locations is that they have different games for the younger ones.. Like bouncing castles. Eateries are also strategically positioned so you’ll not have to worry about packing up meals. 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;BikingKids love their bicycles; despite the many injuries they give them. You and your children can bike the afternoon or the evening away as you unwind, and bond with them. You can visit a nature park, or Karura forest- https://www.friendsofkarura.org/ for this. You can still do it on a regular basis, on that road close to where you live, which will cost you nothing. Just carry your water bottles for hydration sake. And don’t forget helmets.5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Animal parks.We all loved animal parks when growing up. Well most of us.This is a fun place to take the children as it is also a learning point. We have the animal orphanage in Nairobi, the snake park the David Sheldrick elephant orphanage &nbsp;and others. These are fun places where you take your children. You could even help and encourage then to adopt an elephant here, and title it after them.Remember to observe the Covid-19 containment rules in all the places you visit, stay safe and remember to send us some photos. &nbsp;‍

Fun outdoor activities for your kids during the holidays

After dragging an extra-large sized watermelon home, I can’t say I wasn’t out of breath, but &nbsp;it was all worth it because nothing beats a juicy, refreshing, sweet slice of watermelon on a sunny day. While a simple slice of watermelon is an absolutely delicious snack, there are many fun ways of spicing up the flavor and presentation of this moisturizing summer fruit. We have put together super simple watermelon salad <a href="https://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke/blog/here-are-some-quick-fix-snacks-for-your-picnic">recipes</a> that taste like summer in every bite.1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Watermelon&amp; Avocado Salad Ingredients<ul> <li>½ Watermelon, cut into &nbsp; &nbsp; cubes</li> <li>2 Creamy avocados, diced</li> <li>10 mint leaves</li> <li>Black pepper</li> <li>Salt</li> <li>1 Lime</li> <li>1 tbsp. Olive oil &nbsp; &nbsp; (optional) </li> <li>1 tbsp. of chia seed &nbsp; &nbsp; (optional)</li></ul>&nbsp;To make (Prep time: 10 minutes)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In a salad bowl, place watermelon cubes, diced avocado and mint leaves. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;II.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In a smaller bowl, mix olive oil, pepper, salt and lime. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;III.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Next, pour the dressing all over the ‘avo-watermelon’ mix and stir gently. &nbsp;&nbsp;IV.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Let it sit in the fridge for 30minutes then top with chia seeds before serving. &nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Watermelon PizzaIngredientso&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 Watermelon slice, (2-3 inches thick and round)o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 cup of mixed fresh berries(strawberries sliced in half, raspberries, cherries, blueberries)o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 Kiwi fruit, cubedo&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 cup yogurt of your choice o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;½ Cup cream cheese/ricotta(optional)o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1 tbsp. honey/maple syrupo&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8-10 leaves of fresh mint&nbsp;To make (Prep time: 15 minutes)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Combine yogurt, honey and ricotta in a small bowl. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;II.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beat until mixed well then set aside. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;III.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Using a sharp knife cut a round slice of watermelon, about 3 inches thick. &nbsp;&nbsp;IV.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Grab a spatula and evenly spread the yogurt mixture leaving some space where the “pizza crust” is. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;V.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Top it with the berries. Kiwi and mint to decorate as you like. &nbsp;&nbsp;VI.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Use a roller blade to divide the watermelon pizza into six pieces and enjoy!3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Watermelon Feta SaladIngredientso&nbsp;&nbsp;½Cubed watermelono&nbsp;&nbsp;4Cucumbers, choppedo&nbsp;&nbsp;6Mint or Basil leaves, choppedo&nbsp;&nbsp;1Limeo&nbsp;&nbsp;2tbsp. Extra virgin olive oilo&nbsp;&nbsp;¾Cup feta cheese, crumbledo&nbsp;&nbsp;Black Peppero&nbsp;&nbsp;Seasalt, to taste&nbsp;To make (Prep time: 10 minutes)To prepare the dressing:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Whisk together olive oil, lime, black pepper and salt in a small bowl. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;II.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Add watermelon and cucumber in a large serving bowl and drizzle the dressing over the salad. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;III.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Top with the crumbled feta and mint/basil leaves and mix gently to integrate all the ingredients. Serve.Health benefits: Besides being loaded with sweet and savory flavors, these salads have an added benefit of being bikini friendly because they contain low calories and nutrients which help prevent stress, heart diseases, cancer and muscle soreness. Notes-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The hardest part is usually slicing the watermelon but you can ace this by using a sharp knife. This also helps ensure you get nice and even slices.-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These salads are best served immediately so you might want to prepare them within the hour of serving. ‍

Discover these three watermelon salad recipes perfect for hot days 

Naivasha, Kenya, May 28, 2021: World Rally Champion Sebastien Ogier, navigated by Julien Ingrassia driving a Toyota Yaris WRC is among 58 world’s top drivers_34 of them Kenyans_ in the 2021 Safari Rally, June 24-27, according to the entry list released today by the International Motorsport Federation (FIA) in the lake town of Naivasha, 91km west of the Kenyan capital Nairobi.All the three factory teams in Rally1 cars_Toyota, Ford, and Hyundai_ will field all their top drivers who have complimented the entry of 11 of the second-tier Rally2 machines leading pilots. Interestingly Kalle Rovanpera of Finland in a Toyota Yaris Rally1 is the youngest aged 20 while Sobieslow Zasada, 2nd in 1972 Safari Rally, and last here in 1997 is the oldest aged 91.The Pole will drive Ford Fiesta ST Rally3. Besides Ogier, Toyota’s other drivers are 2021 WRC Portugal champ Elfyn Evans, Rovanpera, and Takamoto Katsuta.The 2019 world champion Ott Tanak, Dani Sordo, Thierry Neuville and Pierre -Louis Loubet wraps up the Hyundai Mobius WRC Team assault. The 2002 WRC Safari winners M-Sport will field Gus Greensmith, Adrien Fourmaux and Lorenzo Bartelli in the Fiestas R1.Ford has also entered entered Teemu Suninen and Martin Prokok in the R2 class. Andreas Mikkelsen is the top R2 driver in a Skoda Fabia Evo. The seeding will be done later, according to the WRC Safari Rally CEO who led the short ceremony at Acacia Gardens with Hippos in the lake Naivasha shores background.The ARC Equator Rally champion Carl Tundo and his regular navigator Tim Jessop in a VW Polo Rally2 is one of the top Kenyans in the race. Others in this category are Onkar Rai/ Drew Sturrock (VW Polo); Tejveer Rai/Gareth Dawe (VW Polo) and Karan Patel/Tausheef (Ford Fiesta). National champions Baldev Chager and Ravi Soni (Mitsubishi Lancer EVO10) Eric Bengi/Peter Mutuma (Mitsubishi Lancer EVO 10) and McRae Kimathi/Shameer Yusuf (Subaru Impreza N12) are the top leaders in the R3 class.WRC Wales Rally GB Clerk-of-Course, seconded by the FIA to assist Kenyan organisers said he was impressed by the entry list. “This is a competitive list. At first, I was pessimistic but now I am overwhelmed to see this in the first overseas WRC event since March 2020. It is a challenge. The competition will be good,” he said.Deputy Clerk of-Course Nazir Yakub added: “It is a fantastic entry we have. These are unknown drivers locally coming to an unknown territory. We have had a challenge with the weather recently and will return to the route on Saturday for more inspection.”Kimathi said it will be an interesting Safari especially on how the old and the young will perform. He said the sponsorships have been very good and thanked Toyota Gazoo Racing for shipping in a replica WRC Yaris to improve Safari Rally visibility. He said the government led by President Uhuru Kenyatta has played a major role to ensure the success of the Safari.&nbsp;

large_SR.jpg

medium_SR.jpg

small_SR.jpg

thumbnail_SR.jpg

SR.jpg

World Champion Ogier Among 58 Drivers Confirmed For WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2021

Instagram is cool. But after hours of endless scrolling and double tapping, the need to disconnect your brain from smartphones’ vice-like grip inevitably checks in. When that happens, it’s probably time to hit the outdoors. For Atieno Radido, nothing offers better respite from the infinite world that exists on smartphones and computers than a garden, some wine and a movie. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f587b810636a36a9fa0882c_Atieno-min.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>The lovely Atieno Radido</figcaption></figure>“Since Covid happened, I can’t travel as much so I break the monotony of working from home by doing refreshing outdoor activities,” she says. In an attempt to make the most of a bright and sunny Wednesday afternoon, she recently found herself at Chez Sonia, a rustic outdoor eatery located at 68 Peponi Road. Tucked away on the fringes of Nairobi’s upmarket Westlands neighborhood, the ‘House of Sonia’ is quite easy to miss. Until recently, it has remained a well-kept secret despite being in operation for over a year. The Moroccan themed outlet has gained popularity for its serene ambiance, French gastronomy and the latest addition to its weekly schedule of activities; Screen on The Green.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f587b58f10ff314103e7d99_Screen%20At%20Chez-min.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Screen at Chez</figcaption></figure>“I don’t like blockbuster movies,” explains Sonia, the lively proprietor who also doubles as the restaurant’s resident wine sommelier. “Here,we screen different genres from classic European films to contemporary movies depending on the mood of the day.”Some of the movies that have been showcased at the event include Queen &nbsp;&amp; Slim - a tear jerking drama about love in a racially divided America and The Untouchables - the classic true story of notorious mafia kingpin, AlCapone. Currently in their third installment, the weekly screening shave attracted a growing community of movie lovers with a majority being blissful couples as well as savvy young ladies. Attendees have to part with Ksh. 300 to attend the event with two separate screenings scheduled at 2.00PM and 5.00PM every Wednesday.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f587c1c3c4dafa24b2fd79f_Sonia%202-min.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>The bubbly Sonia</figcaption></figure>“I like coming here because the space has a homely, laid back atmosphere,” notes Ms. Radido. “They also serve good food and the staff are amazing.”Chez Sonia’s menu offers a diverse range of treats including the popular “oeuf cocotte” breakfast special, non-alcoholic mock tails for a relaxing afternoon and a variety of cheese infused meals.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f587ca111a59299957d9772_pizza-min.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>Yummy Pizza</figcaption></figure>Since the introduction of curfew restrictions that came into place at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of daytime visitors to Chez Sonia has increased dramatically despite the fact that the establishment has not been serving alcoholic beverages. According to Sonia, this has forced the restaurant to introduce hot-meals to their menu which initially mainly comprised of cold cuts.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f587cbff0f82c24ece39da3_mocktails-min.jpg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>On that mock-tails vibe</figcaption></figure>Chez Sonia also serves premium French and Spanish wines for the same price as the more common “mass produced” wines that are sold in most outlets across Nairobi. There are plans to upgrade the house into a private membership program with exclusive offers for regular patrons.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f587d25963a967347faf381_Chez%20Front.jpeg" loading="lazy"></div><figcaption>The Chez front </figcaption></figure>‍<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img></div></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img></div></figure>‍<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img></div></figure>‍‍

Chez Sonia; Normalizing Daytime outdoor movie dates

COURTESY OF BEYONCÉ.Rotten Tomatoes scored it absolute excellence!! 100%Tomatometer with a 93% audience score with potential to rise. Black is King indeed...or is it Queen? The new Black is King visual album by Beyoncé was released on 31st July 2020 on Disney+. We cannot do it any justice by reviewing it because it is lit, people. You need to watch it if you haven’t, and rewatch it if you have.Black is King is about a journey of a young king cast out of his family into a harsh world,where he has to find his way back home. He goes through betrayal, love andself-identity on a journey to reclaim his throne, utilizing guidance of his ancestors and childhood love. The film serves as a visual companion to the 2019 album; The Lion king-The Gift, an album curated for the remake of the movie The Lion king.As the title suggests it is a celebration of Black people, Black culture, where we’ve come from, where we are and where we are going. It is a tribute to our ancestors. It is also about one finding out about their true self, and tracing us back to our roots.The visuals are stunning and will keep you glued to the screen all through, from the desert, to the rivers, to the seaside. From the jungle to the castles. From the cars to the horses. There is even a Moses basket story look alike.Let’s not forget the dance moves. Queen B got moves. It got me trying some moves with my two left feet. We also get treated to some moves, and vocals from Blue Ivy…yaaas!!!.The album has special appearances from a number of celebrities, some from Africa and beyond.The likes of Kelly Rowland, B's best friend, Yemi Alade, Tiwa Sawage, Wizkid,Pharell Williams among others. Our very own Lupita Nyong’o is also featured.Queen B’s hubby and American rapper Jay-Z also gives an epic performance.There are quite a number of costume changes throughout the album, which the queen seems to handle with ease and finesse. Dialogue fromThe Lion King and poetry is used to bridge the gap between songs. The narrative loosely follows the story of Simba taking his place in the Circle of life. Allin all, this is an awesome album, more so for one trying to find their identity, and their path. We are now spending our free time practicing the dance moves!! If you spot my girls and I at park near you, be sure to join us. Staysafe. &nbsp;&nbsp;‍

The Queen’s 'Black is King' is indeed King

‘Spoke n Lace’, an all-girl cycling group will for the first time attempt to complete an arduous feat of cycling a Tricentury(300km) within 24 hours to encourage more Kenyan women to take up cycling as a fun, healthier, safer, greener and more efficient means of transport. The race dubbed‘Sparta Ride’ will take place on August 15, 2020 from Nairobi to Oloitoktok and back. The event is open to all female cyclists who would like to see a change in the culture of cycling in Kenya, including improvement of infrastructure and equal rights for all road users. “We are determined we are going to make it within 24 hours because we have been training regularly especially during the lockdown period when we had more free time.” said JodeeMisere, one of the founding partners. Women interested in joining should message@jodeemisere via Instagram. &nbsp;'Spoke n Lace' comprises of 13 women brought together by their love for cycling and on a mission to create awareness on the importance of making roads in Nairobi more cyclist-friendlyand to sensitize other road users about the necessity of sharing the road.They focus on riding within Nairobi and nearby counties including Machakos,Taita Taveta, Magadi and Kajiado. They also have a social monthly event called Critical Mass held on the last Saturday of every month where cyclist bike through Nairobi promoting a culture and a passion for cycling. “Two-wheel commute has largely been dominated by men. Most women are either terrified of riding in Nairobi’s traffic or perhaps haven’t cycled for many years and need toregain their confidence to get back on their bike or are new to cycling and looking for company. Spoke n Lace stands for empowering women to use cycling as a mode of transport and a sport.” added Jodee.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;‍

Setting the bar high: ‘Spoke n Lace’ Group enjoying the outdoors while keeping fit

The convenient thing to do once you have emptied that bottle of your favorite tipple is to trash it in the garbage bin, right?&nbsp; Assume you partake of three bottles monthly, a quick calculation tells me you trash about 36 bottles every year.&nbsp; Now, that’s just you.&nbsp; Think of your circle of friends, the bars and restaurants in your locality, and all the solid waste, in glass form, that they generate: you quickly start to appreciate how your modest consumption contributes to the estimated 40,000 tonnes of solid glass waste that is generated in Kenya every year.<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621446495/2_59a61873af.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Some of Rintari's work&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>While many people give very little thought to what happens to that waste once they have disposed of it, a growing army of innovative craftsmen is busy at work, transforming trash into treasure, and lending beauty to nature and homes through their creative genius.&nbsp;Meet Rintari Joel, a self-made contemporary glass artist who takes pride in working with empty glass bottles transforming them into an elegant array of glassware.&nbsp; The Picnic Site recently caught up with Rintari at his workshop, along Ngong Road, Nairobi. His is an inspirational story of a man who has been able to plug passion and talent into a profitable venture that also minimizes environmental degradation.&nbsp; We share with you snippets of our conversation with him:What inspired you to do what you do?What started as a curiosity to learn the art of glass cutting and engraving has turned into a passion project on youth empowerment and climate action. My talent made me realize the true impact my work has on the community. My workshop has provided opportunities for countless people and has played a major role in reducing glass and plastic waste in the environment. My entire operation is based on recycling and up-cycling, and this has given me the drive and the passion to keep at my work.Where do you source the raw materials?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621446632/1_8132947a4a.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Some of Rintari's work&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>Well anywhere and everywhere really. My team and I work closely with establishments that use or retail products contained in glass and have a large disposal rate. They dump it, and we take it to make beautiful and well-crafted accessories and curios.What kind of stuff do you make?Functional items, such as household goods, mementos as well as furniture, all to the preference and specifications of my clients. It’s truly fulfilling to see customers brag about their pieces from Rintari Joe!&nbsp;How do you market yourself?The bulk of my customers come to me through referrals. It is common to find customers who desire a piece they came across at a friend’s home.&nbsp; Social media has also served as a great platform for showcasing and marketing my creations.What are some of the challenges you face in your line of work?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621448042/3_891a8ef3da.jpg" alt=""></figure>As any creative would tell you, the lack of support from the general public and corporate sector is one of the greatest setbacks in this industry. It takes a while to build a brand as a creative and to get the well-deserved rec&nbsp;ognition for the hours of work, sweat, and tears you put into your craft. Though we keep the hope alive, it takes weeks or even months to get big contracts that require bulk orders to stream in. We hope to expand further to incorporate a marketing department to tell the public, art enthusiasts, and corporate clients to buy and build the Rintari brand and product lineCould you share with us your vision and prospects?<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621922229/2_05f073ffd3.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Rintari at work&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>My vision for my glass workshop is to attract investors who can pump in the funds into machinery and a larger space to produce more and display more. My dream is to rebrand and open a gallery store that would allow walk-in clients to browse, select and purchase glass items at their pleasure. Currently, silent investors have been my biggest cheerleaders! What’s next or who is next? The Universe will reveal in good time!&nbsp;___________________________________________________________________________________&nbsp;In the true spirit of The Picnic Site, we encourage our community to support local talent and celebrate our planet heroes who make the world a better place. You can reach Rintari on his Facebook page, “Rintari Joel”, and also visit his workshop on Ngong Road.&nbsp;____________________________________________________________________________________

medium_Hero.jpg

small_Hero.jpg

thumbnail_Hero.jpg

Hero.jpg

This Planet Hero Is Crafting Elegant Glassware From Trash

Desperate for a get-together with friends and family? You’re not alone! &nbsp;Isolating and staying home has been tough on everyone.&nbsp; The dreaded Covid-19 disease has had an unprecedented impact on almost every facet of our lives.&nbsp; With most governments effecting stringent protocols to minimize transmission of the Coronavirus, our greatest responsibility is to reduce the risk of exposure by observing the necessary safety precautions.&nbsp;Whether you choose to stay in, go out, or host intimate groups, the important thing to ensure is that you do so creatively and responsibly. Some ideas to help you along the way:Planning to host a small group?Take it outside.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621264255/Friends_d7a75e21a6.png" alt=""><figcaption>Partying outside, always a vibe!</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;Make the most of our beautiful weather by dining al fresco! &nbsp;With fresh air and more space between people, the risk is reduced. Ensure you have enough room to accommodate your guests with social distancing. Guests should be at least 1.5 meters apart. &nbsp;Place hand sanitizers liberally, and encourage guests to use them regularly.&nbsp; Also, have a stock of disposal masks on hand.Hello hand sanitizer&nbsp;Show your care by greeting guests at the door with hand sanitizer. Go the extra mile by sanitizing the bottom of their shoes or having them leave their footwear outside. Stock up on single-use napkins or serviettes for guests to dry their hands.Dishwasher or disposable&nbsp;If you have a dishwasher, put all used cutlery and crockery on the hottest and longest cycle. Alternatively, ditch the clean-up with some pretty paper plates and cups. Bamboo plates or repurposed sugarcane fiber plates are a great environmentally friendly alternative. Bonus, the sugarcane plates are water and oil resistant and microwaveable and can be recycled after use.&nbsp;Hands-offBuffets are out as guests can’t all touch the same serving spoon to serve themselves. Instead, delegate one person to do all the dishing up and ensure they stay masked up for the process.&nbsp;Stay home if you are sick<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621264398/Unwell_b5edc5268a.png" alt=""><figcaption>Stay home if unwell</figcaption></figure>If you’re showing flu-like symptoms, stay home. Yes, you don’t want to miss out, but you definitely don’t want to be a super spreader! That goes for the guests as well. Rather cancel if you think you may have the coronavirus.&nbsp;Staying indoors? Go virtualBeing stuck at home doesn’t mean a life of loneliness and boredom.&nbsp; You can still have fun in new and unconventional ways.Go tech and host a virtual party event:&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dn4vattmg/image/upload/v1621264493/Virtual_812ca691b0.png" alt=""><figcaption>Virtual parties for the win</figcaption></figure>With multiple video call applications and web platforms, you are one step away from creating a party of a lifetime unhindered time and space. &nbsp;Themed parties, live sports viewing, movie nights and even wine tasting can easily be incorporated as part of your hosting, bringing together loved ones for some much- needed bonding and camaraderie.The Covid 19 pandemic may have brought a sudden halt to life as we know it, but that has not dampened creativity. A case in point, Hoot, cook, go&nbsp;an African cooking competition with a twist.&nbsp; Packaged as a television show, it features three teams preparing a home-cooked meal in just one hour. But, once they hear the hooter, it’s time to get in the car and move on to the next team’s house. The best meal, as judged by the teams, takes the prize.&nbsp;Catherine Ndashe Phiri, Executive Producer of the Zambian segment, explains how they pulled it off in the time of the Coronavirus. “This was a very interesting new concept for us, and filming was a challenge. We also didn’t want to date the show, so the contestants didn’t wear masks on camera, which meant we had to be extra careful.”The large number of people on set meant filming time was shorter to ensure everyone’s protection, but this also led to delays in production.&nbsp;“We especially struggled with the transport aspect. We had to get more cars to allow for more spacing between people, and this was challenging for the camera work,” she explains. “We only had to film four episodes, but some filming happened during Zambia’s much more dangerous second wave. If someone tested positive, we all went into quarantine, which meant we again pushed shooting schedules out.”She adds, “But entertaining can still happen, provided everyone is careful, considerate and follows protocol. Wearing masks and frequent use of hand sanitiser is essential.”&nbsp;Catch Hoot, cook, go on DStv channel 173. Thursdays, EAT (18:00)&nbsp;&nbsp;

medium_Thumb.png

small_Thumb.png

thumbnail_Thumb.png

Thumb.png

Kicking Out The Cabin Fever Responsibly: Entertainment In The Era Of Social Distancing

I’ve slept in a lot of tents, from the good old days camping as a girl scout, right up to enjoying a one-day hike turned campout and the occasional weekend glamping in spaces with a king size bed. With it came some hard lessons and experience in terms of knowing what kind of tent is worth investing in. There are so many great options to choose from to ensure that you are cozy when catching some Zs outing the wild. To give you the best advice on this front, we’re combining expertise a from backpack traveler, cyclist and photographer who knows a whole lot about outdoor adventures and what makes an ideal camping tent with our own personal camping experience. We checked in with Malicky Boaz who spends more time than most in a tent often backpacking on solo trips or cycling cross-country. Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thatkaguruguy/?hl=en">@thatkaguruguy</a>So whether you’re heading into the wilderness over the weekend or planning to camp in your backyard with the whole family discover some of the best tents equipped with varying levels of quality and reliability to suit your needs.‍Dome/Bow Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f886eb7a88ead2da2423bc2_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>This is the most popular type of tents among campers, easily identified by it’s semi-circle structure. Dome tents are designed to have 2 or 3 flexible poles crossing each other at the top to create a wider floor area. Some models have features such as lights, porch area and premium storage although these amenities come with a weight penalty.The 3poled dome tents are much stronger and can be used for a wide range of camping trips. “One can easily set it up and they have spacious headroom. The only disadvantage is that they are not ideal for extreme weather conditions such as high winds or heavy rainfalls.” says Malicky.Backpacking Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:429px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f886f1c413e6ed79d35e766_qq.png" loading="lazy"></div></figure>“At the end of along hike, the last thing you need to is pitch a tent. Built with hikers and lazy people in mind, backpacking tents are compact and lightweight. They are easy to carry so in bags or bikes over long distances without spending too much calories.” says Malicky. <figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://d3e54v103j8qbb.cloudfront.net/img/image-placeholder.svg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>They are easy to set up and contrary to the dome tents, they can withstand harsh weather conditions. The only downside is that they have less headroom making it difficult to move around inside or accommodate more than one person.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f886fb25f47e834e9b9ed91_qq.png" loading="lazy"></div></figure>“I think backpacking tents are ideal for hiking campers only” he adds.Cabin Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f8870e45a96fe9b97c0cf3d_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure><figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:594px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f887142289c0af44213d882_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Cabin tents are a perfect choice for family camping and adds some luxury to the outdoors. They are essentially more stable than most tents because the poles are made up of aluminum and the walls made of waterproof canvas or polyester to create huge space that is square in shape. Some designs have dividers which can create separate rooms if needed.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center"><div><img src="https://d3e54v103j8qbb.cloudfront.net/img/image-placeholder.svg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Malicky says that cabin tents are spacious enough for one to stand while inside or fit in a kingsize bed. Interestingly, they tend to be fairly cheap because they are cheaply made. Unfortunately, most designs are too heavy and quite complicated when pitching.Rooftop Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:1280px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f8871af6138d50965bb9ae4_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Rooftop camping can most certainly be an exciting experience if you’re more of a road-tripping kind of camper. “Stepping away from the traditional tents where you sleep on the ground at muddy, rocky or less-than-ideal campsites, rooftop tents offer you the experience of sleeping while elevated off the ground.” says MalickyThey can be set up anywhere your car can go, only that you have to ensure that your car has roof bars for attaching the tent and is strong enough to handle a tent packed with many campers. Other desirable features are that it easily opens up and folds backdown and it comes with a ladder to help you access the car roof.“The biggest impediments of this tent is that its associated with a higher price tag and heavy bulk. Additionally, the tent can consume a lot of space limiting campers from carrying bikes or a roof box.” he adds.Pop Up Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:873px"><div><img src="https://d3e54v103j8qbb.cloudfront.net/img/image-placeholder.svg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>Pop-up tents, as the title suggests, are designed to pop up when opened without much intervention. You then fix it to the ground for stability. Its design is well known among campers for its simplicity, flexibility and ability to accommodate up to two people.Hammock Tents<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:672px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f88727adf255ff2ed2123ab_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>This category &nbsp;is ideal for minimalists or camping in situations where sleeping on the ground is not an option due to wet or rocky uneven surfaces. Hammock tents, as the title suggests, are suspended off the ground with two straps tied to two trees opposite each other. This feature offers better protection from animals and more comfort when sleeping out in the rough wild.Most come with built-in bug nets and a roof to protect you from bugs and the rain. It is very easy to set it up and becomes very small when packed down.<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width:672px"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5f168dd02f926aa17ef8751f/5f8872dde0f788f44b625563_qq.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>&nbsp;Happy Camping.‍‍‍‍‍‍

Pitch it perfect; tents for this and that

Yaas!!! We got our <a href="https://thepicnicsite.co.ke/win-it-a-deserved-mama-s-day-picnic-treat-for-six-2">Mother’s Delight Competition</a> winners and we can’t keep calm. The four, Charlette Joyce, Ashiq Yasin, Tuzo Jonathan, and Charity Wafula, had the most compelling stories celebrating mums.&nbsp;The winners will be elevated as guest contributors on our website, The Picnic Site (<a href="http://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a>) and will also receive an all-expenses-paid picnic set-up for six people, courtesy of Vintage Picnics (<a href="http://www.vintagepicnics.co.ke">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).The Mother’s Delight Competition kicked off on Tuesday and each day we published a unique theme that captured the spirit of Mothers and Motherhood on our social media handles on Instagram and Facebook.&nbsp;We then invited everyone to share with us an original, inspirational, and creative narration – through a written essay or poem, a short video or a graphic art piece. At the end of each day, our judges evaluated the entries received by the cut-off time. The winning entrant is who shared the most compelling narration. That is how our winners secured their spot for the fabulous picnic set-up.A hearty congratulations to our winners from all of us at The Picnic Site (<a href="http://www.thepicnicsite.co.ke">www.thepicnicsite.co.ke</a>) &nbsp;and Vintage Picnics (<a href="http://www.vintagepicnics.co.ke">www.vintagepicnics.co.ke</a>).!!!! We love and value you!&nbsp;

What to consider when picking an outfit for your kid’s playdate

Christmas Giving: Tipsy Yoga for Charity

Leleshwa wine tour... not your ordinary wine tour

Different wines for different occasions!! Kenyans pallets is evolving fast ~ Juan Gambil, WoW Beverages

5 Ways To Creatively Celebrate Mother’s Day This Year

Eight kid-approved picnic meals

Hashtag Jacaranda Propaganda - The Genesis

Christmas Giving: Tipsy Yoga for Charity

Leleshwa wine tour... not your ordinary wine tour

Different wines for different occasions!! Kenyans pallets is evolving fast ~ Juan Gambil, WoW Beverages

5 Ways To Creatively Celebrate Mother’s Day This Year

Eight kid-approved picnic meals

Hashtag Jacaranda Propaganda - The Genesis

Subscribe