Here is an inexpensive idea that probably is Blue Zone-friendly:

Go on a picnic.

Grab the family on nice night this week or this weekend and hit a local picnic table at a local park.

You can grill. You can toss the pigskin. You can play cribbage. You can chat.

Here are some of the best picnic spots in the area:

Edgewater Park. The best tables are on that knob down from the bandshell, which is great for Fountain Lake boat watching in three directions. Right along the water is good, too, when the Bayside Skiers perform on Thursday nights.

Northwood City Park. The Shell Rock River performs a nice bend through the scenic and serene location.

Arrowhead Point Park. This county park south of Freeborn has a nice point that juts into Freeborn Lake. There’s a nice shelter, too. Go now before the bugs take control.

Myre-Big Island State Park. Big Island itself is clearly the picnic favorite for generations of local families. Keep the tradition going.

Pihl’s Point. South of Wells there is a camping favorite. It comes complete with Faribault County wetland scenery.

Frank Hall Park. This park on Albert Lea Lake seems to be gaining in attendance and use. The horseshoes have been in high demand this summer, and the tables along the shore are popular lunch spots.

Who needs a dining room to dine, especially this time of year?