The sun is shining, the weather is warming up, and the great outdoors are calling. Picnic weather has finally come, and people across the country are taking their picnic blankets and coolers down from the shelf and thinking about going out to that perfect picnic spot. Whether you're going to a park or beach or taking a scenic drive, it won't work to just throw whatever you have into the cooler and go. It's much better to plan ahead and to do something a little special with the foods you bring on your picnic. Here are some ideas.

Potato salad: This old picnic classic is a nice, light side dish that stores well and keeps a good flavor even after sitting in the cooler for several hours. There are many great homemade potato salad recipes, and you should be able to find a nice well-made salad at your local deli.

Watermelon: One of the best things about watermelon is that everyone loves it, including kids. It's refreshingly juicy and sweet, and it's easy to clean up. If you want, you can cut up a watermelon beforehand and pack the chunks or slices into a plastic container, or you can get a pre-cut water melon at the store.

Bread and cheese: This one is so simple that you hardly have to do anything, yet it's also delicious. Before going on your picnic, go out and get a fresh baguette and your favorite type of cheese. Slice them at home, pack them up, and you have an instant delicious treat.

Deviled eggs: Deviled eggs are one of those foods that are good all the time, even though they seem to be best for certain situations. Picnics are one of those situations. When you're out relaxing in the sun, there's something about a deviled egg's mixture of creaminess and crunchiness that just hits the spot. It's also an easy finger food that can be eaten in one or two bites.

Lemonade: When you're out on your picnic, you're probably going to want something to drink. Pack a large thermos full of fresh lemonade, and bring some ice and cups. The lemonade will be perfectly refreshing, with a little bite and a little bit of sweetness. It goes great on its own, but it's also the perfect complement to your picnic snacking.

Mixed vegetables: When it comes to vegetable mixtures, there are almost no limits. For example, you can bring some carrots and celery along with a vegetable dip, or you can make a delicious salad out of your favorite vegetables. You might also consider making a pasta salad out of macaroni, your favorite vegetables, and a little bit of cheese.

Sushi: If you're a fan of exotic foods, sushi is a great treat to take on a picnic. It stores well in a cooler, and it doesn't have to be warmed up, which makes it perfect. Either get some take-out sushi from a local restaurant, or find some pre-made sushi at the grocery store.