This time of year is perfect for star gazing.

Meteor showers and gorgeous weather make it a great time to get outside and enjoy life under the stars.

When you gather your group together, make sure to have lots to nibble on — we don’t want any hungry (read:  grumpy) star gazers in our midst. You need something hearty like burgers or anything BEEF!

Keep ’em happy with these star-studded recipes…

Need more recipe inspiration? Head on over here and you’ll be sure to find whatever tickles your taste buds.

Enjoy your star-studded party!

Photo and recipes courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

The next meteor shower (Perseid) peaks between August 10 and 13. Will you be watching? I will!

It’s fun to create a watch party and enjoy the beauty of nature. And what do you need for a great meteor watch party?

1. Binoculars. Self explanatory.

2. A blanket and chairs. You want to be comfy out there under the stars.

3. Great food. The bacon-wrapped filets above should do nicely, but just make sure it’s something special. Meteor showers don’t happen every day!

4. Great company. Surround yourself with people who share your vision. Otherwise, well, your night could come crashing down.

So what do you think? Will YOU have your eyes toward the heavens for Perseid?

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

Since it’s National Picnic Month (what, you didn’t know that?) let’s get outside and pack the perfect picnic foods!

Now, there’s all sorts of ways we can do this.

1. You can go the safe route and pack bologna sandwiches and chips. Boring.

2. You can grill something delicioso, pack it up and head outdoors.

-OR-

3. You can bring along a portable grill to your picnic destination, grill up some goodies and have yourself a real PICNIC!

I choose #2 or #3.

Honestly, the enjoyment of the picnic is proportionate to the quality of the food you bring.

Your picnic spot may not be conducive to portable grilling. I get that. So #2 is your best bet. Just be sure to grill JUST BEFORE you leave, pack those kabobs/steaks/burgers/what have you in airtight containers and enjoy right away.

Don’t forget all the proper utensils, condiments, plates, drinks, napkins etc. for your picnic foods. Sometimes a change of scenery makes us lose our minds. Just think through your meal as if you were sitting down at your own table. Only this time, you’ll be sitting on a blanket. Outside. Enjoying nature.

Oh. And pack a blanket.

You really can enjoy just about any meal in picnic form. I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t try spaghetti out there. But grilled foods are perfect! Especially ones you can eat with your hands.

So get out there and enjoy your own customized picnic this month and join all the other revelers outdoors who are celebrating National Picnic Month, too!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.