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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Dr Pepper®. The opinions and text are all mine.

Summer is here and I'm so excited. We do a lot over the summer, we have Disney, the beach, a lot of BBQs with friends and family. Picnics are one of my favorite things about summertime. What’s a better way to enjoy the warm weather than to have a picnic with family and friends?

Sometimes I like to have ‘Grown up' party, meaning no kids. I mean, I have the kids all of the time and I'm always running them around. I'm a firm believer in making time for yourself and for your friends. Kids off to the Grandparents and I'm off to have fun!

How to Have the Best Summer Picnic Ever at the Beach (without the kids)

The Invite

Leave the kids at home (or with a babysitter) and join us for an evening on the beach with good friends.

Picnic Food

I often like to pack cheese, cured meats, bread, and other finger foods because they are delicious and easy to pack and eat. Finger foods are much easier to pack. We also love to invite our friends when we have a picnic and we make it a potluck where everyone brings a dish and we grill the meats. Remember to skip the mayo unless it is packed in ice.

Pack an Umbrella

Be sure to bring an umbrella or a tent. Not only can you enjoy your picnic foods minus the glare, but you also protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. Make sure to pack sunscreen and a hat!

Use a Tablecoth

If you can't find a picnic table spread your picnic out on a tablecloth. It's lighter than a blanket—and much easier to wash.

Stock up a Cooler!

Pre-chill your food and drinks, if they are already cold, the ice will last longer instead of packing warm items that will quickly melt the ice. Pack up a cooler that is big enough to pack plenty of drinks and your food. Use lots and lots of ice.

Games and Activities

When we picnic at the beach we always surf, boogie board, and play Frisbee. We also love to fly kites when there is wind and have a fun game of Volley ball. Playing cards are also fun to play under the tent.

Location

When we search for a beach for a picnic we like to choose one near bathrooms and running water. Sometimes we even like to find one that has picnic tables.

Time of Day

Morning picnics are always fun but my favorite are late afternoon or evening when it isn't so hot and there is a nice breeze. Sunset picnics are the perfect time for an outdoor meal.

Make sure to have refreshing drinks like Dr Pepper to the beach this summer. #PickYourPepper from any #Walmart, pack a cooler, and head to the beach!

Dr. Pepper Mixed Drink

I love to spice up our parties with a good mixed drink and delicious Dr Pepper drinks make any party or occasion even more fun!

Dr. Pepper is my absolute favorite soda and makes a delicious mixed drink!

What you need

1 can of Dr. Pepper or Diet Dr. Pepper

1 oz of Whiskey

3 Moonshine Cherries

Lots of Ice!

Combine all ingredients and enjoy!

This summer June 15th through August 15th when you buy any Dr Pepper at Walmart you can upload your receipt at http://bit.ly/2pts8Qo to get the prizes below.