Father’s Day Is The Perfect Time To Connect With Dad

Don’t forget your Father

Now that Mother’s Day has come and gone, it is time to honor the fathers in your life.  The third Sunday in June is set aside to do just that. What better time than Father’s Day to express your gratitude and love to your dad? It’s a day to thank your father for the important role he has played in helping you become the person you are today. But don’t think you only get to celebrate with your biological father. Perhaps there is another father figure in your life, such as a step-father, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle, mentor, or friend who deserves to be honored.

Good Beginnings

It was 1910 when Father’s Day was first celebrated. And contrary to what many believe, it wasn’t instituted as another money-making ploy by greeting card companies. Rather, Father’s Day was originated by Sonora Smart Dodd, who was motivated by a Mother’s Day sermon.  Along with her five siblings, Sonora was raised by her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran, following the death of her mother.  Not having a mother, Sonora was inspired to begin a day that honored fathers. Since her father’s birthday was in June, Sonora decided Father’s Day should be celebrated in that month.

Sonora tirelessly worked to bring about such a holiday and soon the idea of Father’s Day was popular all over the country. President Coolidge recommended Father’s Day as a national holiday in 1924, but it wasn’t until 1972 that President Nixon officially created Father’s Day as a national holiday.

The Nitty Gritty

So what is a good way to honor the fathers in your life? What would show dad how thankful you are for him? What would your dad appreciate most from you as a sign of love? Many families have their own traditions for Father’s Day. Some give cards, some make dad breakfast in bed, some go out to eat at dad’s favorite restaurant, some send him to the golf course for the day. One of the best and easiest ways to show dad you love him is to give him your time. Below are a few creative ways to do just that.

Play Ball! What father wouldn’t enjoy a day at the ballpark? A baseball game is the perfect summer outing. It doesn’t have to be a major league game. All that matters is that you’re out there together, rooting on the home team.

Eat Up! Another great way to spend time with dad and the whole family is to go on a picnic. Find a local park and pack dad’s favorite summer foods or pick up fried chicken on the way. Don’t forget to take the frisbee or whiffle balls.

Pedal to the Metal! When the weather outside is nice, a great, economical family outing that everyone enjoys is a bike ride through a scenic national park or your neighborhood. You could even bring a picnic lunch with you or stop for food on your route. If bikes aren’t available, slide on the hiking boots and go for a walk in the mountains.

Hook, Line, Sinker! Many fathers enjoy fishing and would probably enjoy some company for an afternoon on the lake or river. Even if it’s not everyone’s favorite activity, it shows dad you care enough to spend time doing what he enjoys.

Game Time! If the weather isn’t ideal, you don’t have to sit around apologizing. Improvise with a day of board games or movies. Have everyone choose a favorite and be sure to bring out the popcorn and drinks. For many families whose lives are way too busy, an evening to just rest and relax in the family room is just what they may need. Just don’t forget to play dad’s favorite games first.

However your family chooses to celebrate dad this year, make sure that when the day is over, dad has been reminded of how much he is loved and cherished by all.

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