I love theme parks. I can't get enough of the coasters, the log flumes or the thrill of winning one of those massive stuffed animals after shooting water in the clown's mouth and having my balloon break first. Maybe it's because I grew up on the Jersey Shore, where the boardwalk is a theme park of epic proportions. The food there is out of this world -- whether it's hand-tossed pizza or frozen custard sandwiched between warm waffles or maybe Clams Casino topped with crispy bacon. Unfortunately,no theme parks that I've ever visited have had the same type of food offerings. But don't let that stop you from having a great family meal! As an alternative to deep-fried corn dogs, why not pack up an old fashioned picnic? Come lunch time, simply head out to your car, pick up your lunch, find a shady spot and spread out your blanket. As adults, you'll probably enjoy a little break from the hustle and bustle of the park and your kids can take a minute to eat a good meal and plan out the remainder of their day. After all, once they've been inside, they will know what they simply MUST see and do before heading home.

The picnic menu I've prepared for you is easy to make, easy to carry and easy to serve. I chose fried chicken, served cold, as the main dish. You can fry your own or pick up some from your favorite restaurant. Counting calories? No problem! Try a rotisserie chicken,which also is an excellent choice served cold. Add to your chicken a picnic orzo salad with honey mustard/vinaigrette dressing, cheddar cheese biscuits and banana cake. The salad is made a day before; the biscuits and cake can be made and frozen up to two weeks ahead of time. Add some sliced, ripe tomatoes, a jar of dill pickles and a bucket of fresh strawberries and you have a delicious, portable feast your family will love.

There are a few things to keep in mind to keep your picnic safe. Cold foods must stay cold. Pack your picnic in a large cooler, using ice to keep your goodies cool. To keep foods from becoming soggy, wrap them in aluminum foil, then place them in a zipper-sealing, plastic bag. Be sure to put food that must stay the coldest next to the ice. You can layer the less perishable foods on top of those. Another helpful hint is to chill drinks ahead of time, so they'll just stay cold, not get cold. And for just the right finishing touch, pack a basket with plates, napkins or moist towelettes, utensils, serving pieces, a tablecloth or blanket, salt and pepper shakers and a trash bag, and let the fun begin!