Eric Call knows the best gift you can receive this Father’s Day is quality time spent with those who matter most.
Submitted photo
Deciding on a Father’s Day gift may seem like a monumental challenge. Dads often appear to have everything they need and don’t ask for much. When they want or need something, they just go buy it. When you think of the things he likes, you don’t know what kind of fishing rod or what brand of golf balls to buy. This may all be true, but don’t stress. Dads are actually easy. All we really want is some of your time.
I know I’m not an easy person to buy for. I’m overloaded on outdoor gear, and my girls wouldn’t have a clue as to what may be missing from my wish list. If they figured it out, they’d have a hard time affording whatever I’m dreaming about. Therefore, by far, the most valuable gift my girls could give me is a peaceful, relaxing day together.
Ask anyone at the end of their life what mattered the most to them, and I guarantee you are going to hear stories about experiences with the people they’ve loved along the way. You’ll likely never hear someone say the center of their life was any material possession. Time is our greatest resource. Treat time like a treasure and be willing to share. If you focus on building bonds with your family and friends, you’ll be rich beyond your wildest dreams.
Your thoughts may be spinning now on what experience you can create for the man or men in your life you’ll be celebrating on Father’s Day. Again, us dads are not that complicated. You can’t go wrong with a cookout. Hamburgers, hot dogs, a cold drink and a comfy lawn chair is a recipe for success with most men. Add in a little fishing, boating, golfing, shooting or whatever your man loves, and I guarantee you’ll put a smile on your special guy’s face.
The key to this special day for dad is to make it hands off for him. Plan the day and handle the work. This means buying the food and planning the activities. Bring the supplies needed. Dad probably won’t give up the grill, but if that’s something he enjoys, let him do it. You can handle the clean-up and the transition from one activity to the next.
There are a few good options for places to go for a fun and affordable day with dad. None are better in my mind than a state park. Most state parks are going to have a number of outdoor activity options. Hiking trails, swimming beaches, fishing lakes and picnic areas allow you to have a cookout and participate in something fun, all for a minimal expense.
His own backyard is another option. It may sound unexciting, but just staying home, relaxing and enjoying loved ones at home is a priceless experience. Throwing bags, playing bocce ball, or any other lawn game can be a fun experience. If you’re deadset on buying a gift, then consider a tree or some perennial flowers. Help with the planting. Then each time he looks at the tree or beautiful plants, he’ll be reminded of your love.
Father’s Day is meant to be a celebration, so don’t make it stressful. Food, family, friends and a little time spent outdoors is all most of us guys really want. Just plan the day, purchase the supplies and make it a peaceful experience. I don’t know how any fella could argue against this idea.
To all the dads out there, I hope you have a great Father’s Day. If you’re blessed to have strong relationships with your children, then be thankful for this blessing. If you’re in an unfortunate situation where your relationship may be strained, then perhaps this is your opportunity to mend the fence. Start small. A phone call can go a long way. If you have the opportunity, find a way to be together. We don’t have enough years with our parents, and my many friends who have lost their fathers will tell you, they give just about anything to simply sit under a shade tree and talk with their dad one more time.
See you down the trail…
Brandon Butler writes an outdoors column for The Republic. Send comments to sports@therepublic.com. For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on www.driftwoodoutdoors.com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.
