A Tribute to Dads
By: Paul Banas
Dads spend their lives thinking about their families. They slog hard at work so that they can bring home the bacon. They allow their own preferences to play second fiddle to others at home, and they routinely forgo their own happiness to bring a smile on the lips of their children.
In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson declared Father's Day a holiday, to be celebrated on the third Sunday of June. Father’s day presents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate fatherhood. It’s a day to reflect back on the special, if often unacknowledged, role dads play in our lives. It’s a time to remember the innumerable sacrifices fathers make for us, and repay them by saying those simple words dads love to hear, “Thanks dad, I love you.”
Here are some ideas to help you celebrate Father’s Day:
1. Dad doesn’t have to wait for his next birthday to feel special. If there is a shirt, a watch or tickets to a game that dad has wanted to buy for a long time but just never had the time for, let him know you took the time to care.
2. Dads may not be sentimental around the house but they love to display their Father’s Day cards at work with pride. Give your dad a card. If you have the time, make your own card, letting dad know how much you love him.
3. Treat your dad to dinner at a local restaurant. Better still; surprise him by cooking up his favorite dish at home. (If you don’t cook, order out from his favorite restaurant and have a quiet intimate evening with dad.)
4. Get your dad a Father’s Day gift that is personal and expresses the measure of your love for him. Give something you know your dad will love and use often. This way, your dad will remember you every time he uses the gift. Above all, remember, it’s not the gift, as much as the thought behind it that counts—especially, with dads.
5. Spend some quality time with your dad. You could stay home and make the day a special family occasion by watching a movie together, playing a game or listening to some of his favorite music. Or, treat your dad to a popular “dad” type destination:
Historical museum: If dad’s a history buff and loves to talk and point at the same time, then let him lecture and explore to his heart's content at a local historical museum. Don’t forget the souvenirs and photographs on your way back home.
Ballgame: There’s nothing that dad loves better than to root for his favorite team with rousing support from the family.
Golfing: If you are getting dad some top quality golfing equipment this Father’s Day, then you might as well pack up a picnic and caddy for dear dad out on the greens.
Jazz and Blues Festival: Live classic performances are great for dads and will make the night one to cherish and remember.
Rent-a-fantasy-car: Check for this service in your area to rent your dad a Porche (or any other fantasy car) for the day. Let him take his very own speed trip (with insurance, of course!)
Rollercoaster: If fancy cars are not his style, then dad will love a good old fashioned rollercoaster ride. Make sure it’s a big scary one that takes him to the moon and back.
No, matter what you do, don’t let the day pass without letting your Dad know that you love and appreciate him.