With Mother's Day over and gone, Father's Day will be here before you realize it. Here are some ideas to help you with your gift-giving ideas. Whether you're gifting your husband, father, or father-in-law, he is sure to appreciate your thoughtfulness.
#1 Technology Accessories
Think about the technology your father does and doesn't have, consider his skill level and interest also, then try to do some snooping. Does he have a laptop or car phone, but no adapter? Does he have a computer, but no clue what a flash drive or thumb drive is? Is he always looking for the remote control to the tv and system? All these practical gift items can be found at your local electronics store, along with some inspirations you may never have heard of, and the clerks there can assist with any compatibility issues.
Does he have a Wii, Xbox/Xbox 360, or Playstation that you could supplement with a new game or another remote control? For example, the Wii racing steering wheel just came out a couple months back along with the game to go with it.
#2 Go Green
This can be taken two ways in my family. The first “green” category includes earth friendly gifts. Many gift possibilities exist that will help everyone because they're kind to the earth. Plant a tree in his honor; Elm trees, according to local lore, are great due to mushrooms growing near them. Smaller trees can be planted also, like ornamental or dwarf versions of Blue Spruce, Redwood, Weigela, or Weeping Cherry. Even ornamental shrubs and bushes like a Dogwood or Barberry are good for the environment.
The other green-and it's definitely the favorite with my father-is anything John Deere®. About 20 years ago, these gifts were harder to come by and more expensive. Now the loyal Deere customer can find everything from socks to rain gauges, with everything in between.
#3 For the Fisherman
Why not offer to buy Dad his fishing license? In Indiana, this doesn't cost much, so you might as well throw in some bait and offer to go fishing with him. You can also add supplies that he needs replenished like his old, rusty needle-nosed pliers or the bobbers he lost last season. He might be interested in fish finder technology to detect schools of fish or even an electric fisherman's knife.
#4 Creative Crafts from the Kids
Framed Artwork Magnetic Frame from the Kids
These sentimental favorites are my picks, and it's also what my husband is getting this year. I love craft ideas that involve the kids' (or family's) pictures. One idea is to find a favorite photo and take it to a photography center to create next year's calendar, a t-shirt, a mouse pad, a mug, or a photo button. Another idea is to purchase 81/2" X 11" magnet sheet (sold in many stores in the office supplies section) and create several refrigerator magnet frames for his favorite photos; these are great for work or home (for filing cabinets, his tool box,the camper fridge, etc.). A final idea is to take a piece of art your child has created, frame it, and perfecto-instant office art. Not only is this great for creating memories, but it's also very nice on the pocketbook. (I got this frame for $1 at the local dollar store.) That may be the best gift you can give him if he's overwhelmed with orthodontist's bills, college tuitions and such.
#5 Netflix
I gave this to my father last year, even though he was hesitant about it. Having dial-up computer, my parents didn't want to bother with updating their queue. So I found that Netflix allows you to subscribe for someone else, and it's pretty simple. At the time when I registered, I just created a queue for him and then occasionally added a new one as he mentioned wanting to see a movie. While this is always a great gift for the dad who has everything, he may appreciate it more during the winter months when outdoor recreation is limited.
#6 Gift Cards
With gas prices skyrocketing, dad may appreciate a pre-paid gas card. Summer months are quickly approaching, so the extra gas may allow him to go on that weekend trip to a theme park or go camping with the family “guilt free.” If not gas, I like restaurant or theater gift cards because these are treats the whole family can enjoy.
#7 Take Him Out to Eat
While you may think this isn't a lasting, nostalgic kind of gift, you can turn it into one. Invite all your siblings and their families to join you at Dad's favorite lunch spot. Try to find a spot in which many people can get reservations and fit comfortably. Take some photos and jot down some of the conversational highlights (jokes, family news, what you love and appreciate about your father) and present these to him later in order to remember the special times. Some might scrapbook the moment, others might create a uniquely matted frame, while others might choose to purchase a digital photo frame that talks (or keychain version). Whatever the choice, time with family is probably the most valuable gift you can offer a father in these busy days. Your work in organizing your family's schedules is a way to tell him of your love for him.
