by Walter T. Runn

Created on: May 27, 2011

Father's Day...a day when we commemorate the hard work our fathers put into our lives, and thanking them for everything they've done. The big question, however, is "What can/should I get him?" It seems like for Mother's Day, there are lists of things you could get her, however could I give my father that he would want, use, or treasure? There are two kinds of gifts you could give your father: objects full of practicality, or crafts full of memories and personality. 

The first type of gift is pretty straightforward, and all you need to answer is the following question when picking out a gift: How can my dad use this? If the answer to this question is either "no" or "I don't know", think of another present. Consider the activities he enjoys doing, or maybe even think of how much of a certain piece of clothing he has and will need, such as a tie, a dress shirt, etc. If he enjoys reading, figure out what kinds of books he enjoys reading, or find his favorite author, and pick up the latest book in that genre or from that author and there you have it; a gift your dad will use and cherish. 

The second type of gift is a little more difficult and takes a little more time. This gift is a craft of some sort that you can make and give to your dad. There are a few guidelines you must follow in order for this type of gift to work. First, make sure the presentation of this gift, whatever it may be, shows that you put a lot of effort into it. If you make a scrapbook, don't just put in pictures for the sake of pictures. Decorate each page and collectively organize the pictures into categories so that each page full of memories crosses over into the next page. Decoration and organization does not, by any means, need to be feminine; remember, this is for your dad. If you have a picture at a sporting event, decorate accordingly. Second, make sure that the gift has some weight to it. Make sure that the things you say, or the pictures you show points to something dear to his heart. Make sure each picture is of him or people he loves showing him love. Anything fun that your families did together, mention why it meant something to you. Lastly, make sure that you don't just hand the present to him. Take him out to dinner! Have your entire family come together and thank you together. In this setting, the presentation of a gift so special in itself will create a memory he will not want to forget. 

When you break it down, the key to presenting a gift that your father will cherish forever is just a little more time and effort. This is true for any gift. Just because this gift is for your dad does not mean he will like everything. Everyone likes being reminded that they are loved. When you receive a gift that you know the person giving the gift put thought and effort into, it is hard not to feel the love behind it. Make sure that in this year's father's day, the present you give your father is more than just an object; it is a reminder that you love him. He won't forget it. 

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