Picnic in the Courtyard

Anna and I found this sit out, in the courtyard of a home, we visited recently. We found the setting and arrangement in the lawn highly suggestive of the frequent gatherings of the family around this fire place. The family mentioned to us about the happy occasions the family shares by being in the lawn, sitting around having supper, barbecue, or after supper desert or playing card games. etc. This family uses this place on two or three times in a week. It is also a favourite place for children and grandchildren when they come visiting. 

Although most of us live in flats or in congested surroundings, it is still possible to find little space to make it special for the family to have a picnic, without having to travel to a distant place.

One of the grand children of the family told us that they like having meals in the lawn, as it spares them from having to follow strict table manners, when they are at the dining table. The children like the leisurely time they can have around the meal, followed by family games or story telling. They are fond of this times, as the family can unwind with laughter and fun. 

We have also come across neighbours sharing such a common place and facility in one of the courtyards of their own homes, in order to give an opportunity to those, who do not have a private lawn or courtyard. Families need different contexts and settings to feel connected with each other.

What is the difference between being indoors or outdoors! We are bound or conditioned, when we are indoors by music, television, Computer, books, board gems, etc. This sometimes can become a routine and reduce other flavours needed in building relationships. When a family is outdoors, there is a sense of freedom, relaxation, participation, exploration, etc.

All families need formal times, which is what being indoors provide. They need informal times outdoors, where there is an opportunity to experience the expanse in family ties with spontaneity and originality. 

Make it  habit to have picnics in the terrace, veranda, courtyard, car boot, beside a stream or in  a unused stair case where there is a lift... let me suggest that after such an occasion, we adults would long for the next one, as much as the children.

Family life is the sum substance of all small things we do consciously to build relationships.

M.C.Mathew( text and photo)