Day for Dad

In case you didn't already know, Father's Day is June 17th, which means you don't have much time left to plan for Dad's day. Most Fathers I know, including my own, will just wave their hand and say not to make a big fuss over them. But a father is an important figure in anyone's life, kid or adult, and here are some great ideas to celebrate his day.

- Decorate according to his likes or dislikes. This day is all about him, so if he loves listening to punk rock music and everyone else hates it, deal for one day. If he has a specific hobby, such as baseball or another sport, decorate the main rooms of the house with memorabilia of his favorite team.

- Make his favorite meal. I do this for both my parents on their special occasions, and sometimes I wonder if they don't enjoy this more than the gift-wrapped presents I give them. If you Dad has one particular meal that he absolutely adores, laboring in the kitchen to make it for him will really touch his heart. This is especially cute if young children help out.

- Handmade gifts are the best. This has been said so much it's almost a cliche, but it's still true. Especially with children, actually taking the time to make something for Dad is much more sentimental than just having Mom buy something in their name. When I was about 9 years old I came up with a Father's Day poem, and hand-drew a card for him with it. To this day I remember his reaction to it, because it was the best smile I've ever seen him give when receiving a present from me.

- Ask him what he wants! A lot of people want the element of surprise, but really, if you have no idea whatsoever to get your Dad (or anyone for that matter), it is perfectly acceptable to ask. I usually ask all my family members for a "wish list" for such events, because if you have a list of things to choose from there is at least a small element of surprise.

- Indulge him in his favorite activity. Does your Dad love doing something that no one else likes to do? Such as wandering through a stuffy museum, or hiking up that ridiculously steep trail through the hills? Well, this IS Father's Day. Let you Dad do the things he normally wouldn't be able to do - and joining him even though he knows you don't necessarily enjoy it will be very touching.

Most importantly, this is Dad's Day. I wouldn't go so far as to say "let him do whatever he wants," but it should be a day focused primarily on him. Let him sleep in, let him eat his favorite meal without worry of calories, but most importantly, let him know he is loved!