Father’s Day falls at just the right time in June. In early summer, when the days are long and weather is warm, we can celebrate dads with outdoor activities.
This day is bittersweet for me. I lost my father to cancer soon after my college graduation. On Father’s Day, I always reflect on my childhood days with him. I loved growing up with a funny and supportive father who encouraged my endeavors and loved to travel and celebrate life with his family.
Since having children of my own, I focus on celebrating their father, my husband Mike, on Father’s Day. He is fundamentally a homebody. He loves typical dad activities like grilling heaps of meat for dinner, smoking big fat cigars on the patio, and playing weekly rounds of golf. My kids’ dad is also a talented painter, a voracious reader, and a daily (mostly) workout devotee.
Thinking of his passions and pastimes and all extra dedication he has contributed to our family during our time in quarantine, with everyone home all day every day, makes this Father’s Day even more significant. I have a feeling that most dads who are currently home with kids have been pulling their weight and more these past few months.
Most dads have likely been working from home, helping with meals and household chores, and spending a lot of time with their kids. This summer will have families hunkered down at home more than usual. The home front will be the place where it all happens. With this Father’s Day looking different than most, I cannot help but think of gifts that will enhance a father’s mundane everyday experiences or give him a little break from the routine.
I have compiled a collection of gifts for all types of fathers with a focus on being close to home. Ideas for outdoor dads call out things like the amazing indestructible metal garden hose from Hammacher Schlemmer, a chic copper fire pit for cozy nights, and a custom bean bag toss game.
My family loves our Samsung Frame smart TV. Its easy-to-use apps and amazing HD picture have gotten us through many a quarantine night.
For the preppy dad, I love the special edition Stubbs and Wootton “STAY HOME” slippers and the iconic Boast track suit. He can wear the slippers around the house now and with his tuxedo when special occasions rev up again. My other favorite shoe, the Hoka One One Speedgoat 4 is great for a running man or a guy who likes to walk the dog in comfort.
Whether the dads in your world like to cook, exercise, or read, or you want to help spruce up their WFH zone, I hope you find something for them here.
