Here's to Dads everywhere this weekend. They give of themselves, usually asking little in return, beaming in the occasional compliment from children, all the way from needy toddlers to busy teens. And they do their thing, day in and day out, without much fanfare.
Dads are half of the team that invited these children to the dance, knowing it would be a long haul loaded with a need for patience and sacrifice, but they opted in anyway. Also true, the rewards are beyond words. So, how will dads be celebrated this weekend? What gifts, not limited to the material variety, will find their way into dad's hands?
Many dads in their 50s or 60s have neglected wardrobes or have gotten stuck in a certain style. While that's not necessarily a bad thing, GQ suggests taking your older kids shopping with you and ask them to pick out some things they think you'd look good in. http://www.gq.com/style/style-guy/miscellany/200507/dad-latest-fashion-trends
If dad's a little behind the times on his gadgets, there's a very cool site at http://www.blutekusa.com/ that has an audio turntable that not onlly plays dad's old LPs, but turns them digital as well. (Ion Audio Profile LP Vinyl-To-MP3 USB DJ Turntable) and it won't break the bank. There's a solar phone charger, a series of tiny but great Flip Video camcorders and a host of other fun stuff dads might love, along with that hand-made card or collection of photos.
Nothing beats a great dad + kid photo in a cool frame, unless it's a digital one that changes pix on a timer. Lots of choices, so read this from PC mag to help you pick the one best suited to your XY guy: http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2300977,00.asp.
If dad's a little more traditional, head to this great site that offers archival frames and storage systems that keep irreplaceable images safe: http://www.archivalusa.com/. What? No great photos? Sigh. Sometimes that happens. How about scheduling an outdoor photo shoot as the gift?
The gift of time is always appreciated. No matter what material goods dad gets showered with, the best part of Father's day is the sit down, conversation rich, dad's day brunch or dinner, with everyone ... yes, EVERYONE ... regardless of softball practices or rafting excursions, bike rides or new movies ... in attendance.
Familes are dynamic and kids grow up. Time together becomes more precious as the days pile up behind us. So, Plan a little bit ahead. Do the grocery shopping, assign the duties and set the schedule Saturday morning so that on Sunday, that hour or two everyone spends together will become one of the gifts dad remembers most.