Let Dad Know You Are Thinking of Him
I don’t know that I’ve heard my own children claim this, but I know many folks think Mom is easier to buy a gift for than Dad.
In fact, I’ve always thought I was easy to buy for, providing folks knew what I wanted. A new pair of flip-flops, a fishing shirt, or some great music are always solid choices, as are a nice bottle of wine or some addition to my hockey gear or a biking tchotchke.
Whatever the gift, of course, the idea that I get to celebrate Father’s Day with my kids is more important than any other feature of the holiday. That’s why these days are more bittersweet, with both kids away from home more than not.
Whether your Dad is close by or far away, Father’s Day is a great time to let him know you are thinking about him.
If Dad is an outdoorsman, whether angler, hiker or both, he might appreciate a clever bug repellent courtesy of Thermacell, which offers powerful and portable mosquito and insect repellant in a variety of forms. From afternoons working in the yard to evenings working a big fish, he’ll welcome the extra protection from annoyance. Our friends at Bearcub Outfitters in Petoskey or the Outfitter in Harbor Springs can help with this or similar ideas.
Maybe Dad’s more of an indoor guy. No problem. There are plenty of good new books to keep him busy. “The Way I Die” by Derek Haas starts on Mackinac Island, then accelerates quickly to the West Coast, where the troubled but determined narrator Columbus navigates a good many difficulties, all while believing through each new challenge, he’s discovering “The Way I Die.” Ask the good folks at McLean and Eakin in Petoskey or Between The Covers in Harbor Springs for other suitable suggestions.
Looking for a less traditional or more personal Father’s Day gift? Why not take Dad on a picnic, or commandeer the backyard grill and let him relax until the steaks are ready. How about some concert tickets, or a trip to the movies, complete with popcorn and Milk Duds. If he’s like me, he’d also appreciate a trip to Beards Brewery for an Owlmadillow or two and some of their wonderful Pho.
Still not sure what to get? Dad is sure to make use of a Great Lakes embroidered ball cap to keep the sun off, or a leather Michigan flask to tote his favorite beverage, both from Grandpa Shorter’s.
Whatever you decide, Dad is sure to appreciate the thought and the time this Father’s Day.
