Make Dad happy with less traditional gifts

Every year children (and their moms) fret over what to purchase for the special man of the house. Maybe Dad has a hobby or interest that makes choosing gifts easy, but often figuring out a Father’s Day present can be a challenge.

Although neckties top the list of go-to gifts, chances are Dad wouldn’t be upset if he didn’t unwrap one this year. Instead, think about these gift ideas:

• “Of the month” club: Enroll Dad in one of those series subscriptions that sends him a new item to try every month. From fruit to books, there are many opportunities to find something he’ll enjoy. Plus, this shows him he’s special more than one day during the year.

• Food basket: If the “way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” a gift basket filled with his favorite treats will be a winner. Look for specialty items that he enjoys but seldom buys.

• Sports game: Buy tickets to attend a game when Dad’s favorite sports team will be playing nearby. Wrap the tickets with some team memorabilia, like a new hat or T-shirt.

• Dinner for two: Although Father’s Day is to celebrate the special bond Dad has with his children, a father who often sacrifices his time to be with his children might not have many private moments with the other special person in his life. Arrange dinner reservations for two, so parents can go out and enjoy some adult time.

• Fish aquarium: Tending to and watching fish can be a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. Purchase Dad a new fish tank and accessories and make a date to go together to pick out fish to fill it.

• Something to make chores easier: Think about the chores that Dad does but might not enjoy. Arrange for an easier way to get those chores done. For the father who doesn’t relish mowing and tending to the lawn, reserve a lawn-care service for a month or two to ease his workload.

• Automotive accessories: Oftentimes, a car or truck is viewed as an extension of its owner. Dad might adore his ride, and items that will help him wash, wax and buff it into a pristine vision will no doubt be appreciated.

There are many Father’s Day gifts to purchase or arrange that go beyond the stereotypical gifts bestowed year after year. Children can make this celebration even better with gifts that really show they care.

Food Gift Baskets

Food Gift Baskets

Copyright (c) 2009 Pat Brill

Quality food baskets are a great gift idea to give to others. Everyone loves receiving these edible delights. You can stay within budget and still present a beautiful gift by creating your own basket. All you need is a little bit of creativity and some time.

Now, how do you go about creating a basket? Ask yourself:

*Who is receiving the basket and for what occasion?

*How much do you want to spend?

*Think about the recipient. What does he/she like to do or eat? Is it an indulgence for someone? What is his lifestyle?

Food Gift Baskets are the perfect solution for the difficult-to-shop-for person or for the one who has everything. Food baskets that you purchase are usually expensive and this is a great way to save some money. Handmade food gift baskets carry a nice personal touch and the recipient feels you have taken the time to think about him or her specifically. The personal touch brings a smile to the face of the special people in your life.

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Here are some potential items that can create a fun and delightful gift:

*Special theme basket – for example, Italian meal, Scottish foods, Sushi, Barbecue. Add a cooking utensil to complement the special theme.

*Gourmet foods – desserts, crackers and cheese, and of course chocolate!

*Occasions – birthday, holiday or graduation gift baskets can be created with special items that add to the celebration.

*Personalized – find a company that creates personalized wrappers for their favorite food and wrap up the items in the basket with the recipient’s name.

*Organic – create an organic food basket for the health conscious person on your list. Include nuts, dried fruit, organic grains and spices along with a note stating the organic basket was created to honor their lifestyle.

*Tea or Coffee Time – you can go gourmet on this one or go to your local market and gather a collection of different teas or flavored coffees. Throw in a box of cookies or a bar of yummy chocolate to compliment.

*Wine or Champagne – surround your bottle with fruit or chocolate to compliment the taste.

*All Around a Sweet Tooth – here you can indulge the taste buds of a “sweets lover”. Treat them to cookies, candies, chocolates or their favorite decadent dessert.

*From the Kitchen – if you love to cook or bake, this is a perfect time to showcase your talent by creating a special home cooked gift basket .

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