Father's Day is a tough holiday to shop for. Dads are a different bunch-- a bouquet of flowers and brunch like you got mom last month really isn't going to cut it with most dads.
I know my dad would just laugh and ask where I hid the cigars and the port. This weekend the weather should be looking good so there's plenty of activities that can be done outside -- bike rides, golf, kayaking and tennis just to name a few. Take over the grass cutting for dad on his special day and let him enjoy nature without having to work for it.
Or if your dad's more of an indoor guy, go for a movie, take him to dinner or bring him something you made. I know my dad still uses the tie rack I glued out of popsicle sticks -- he never wears a tie -- the fishing ties I made at camp -- he hates fishing and I'm sure the macaroni pictures are still on the fridge 20 years later.
Oh well, I can do what I do every year, give him a call in Alberta, wish him well and then let him take me out to dinner when he gets into town.
Happy Father's Day dad.
If your dad lives in town and you actually want to do something for him, check out some of these options:
Start Sunday off with a Father's Day Breakfast hosted by the Cedar Lions Club at Cedar Community Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. from 8 a.m. to noon. Call 245-8420.
You can follow that up with a walk in the park and check out some great music while you're at it at the Nanaimo Resource Centre Father's Day "Blues and Beats" at Maffeo Sutton Park from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. with Gerry Barnum and "Voodoo Dave" McGrath. Bring your drums and dancing shoes. Call 716-1551.
If that walk isn't enough for you and your dad, head up the mountain with a guided hike up Mount Benson summit. It starts at 9 a.m. and will take about five to six hours return. This is a strenuous hike and will require good footwear, snack food and drinking water.
There is no charge but donations are welcome. Call the Nanaimo and Area Land Trust at 714-1990 to pre-register.
After all that bonding, for those still looking for the perfect gift, the Nanaimo District Museum presents its Father's Day Blast at the Bastion. Get dad what he really wants, the chance to fire an authentic 19th century cannon.
Stop by the Bastion or Nanaimo District Museum until Sunday and enter to win. Participants must be present at draw to win. Call 753-1821 for more information.