Recently (during quarantine) my two boys decided to experience some male bonding by pitching a tent in our backyard. What a great idea, I thought. If they move out to the tent, there will be less mess to deal with inside the house. “Perfect! Go to it boys” I responded. In minutes that tent popped to life. I forgot just how big that sucker was. While Southern California has plenty of campsites where families can take in the beauty of the local landscape, the farthest this family has made it with the tent was twenty feet away from the kitchen door.

Growing up in a family that every year rented a winnebago to drive a mere two hours to stay a few nights at Hotel Hershey, a family favorite amusement park we frequented every summer, you kinda get the picture why I would own a tent that never left the Pegula property. To be fair, as a family of eight traveling in a Winnebago seemed the most logical way to transport all of us in one vehicle.

Well as it happens with teens, this idea lasted all of a minute. But it did inspire my creative side and I want to share this post for Father’s Day gift ideas. So without further ado, read on to find some items your dad may enjoy. But don’t fret, a winnebago is not one of the suggestions.

Given the current state of our world, safety is at the forefront of most everyone’s mind. With that said, the latest advice from the Center for Disease Control strongly advises the use of facemasks to prevent the spread of the deadly coronavirus. I happen to stumble upon some perfect facemasks to showcase dad’s favorite sports teams (from the MLB to the NFL) that will surely do the job while keeping dad in style at the same time.

Obviously I have to include a tent for camping. Personally we have one by the popular outdoor brand Coleman. They have a great assortment to choose from broken down by the number of campers needed to accommodate (from 2 - 10.) The best feature I love and appreciate when it comes to Coleman tents is the ease of use. Tents assemble in minutes practically on their own. Way to go Coleman!

These days my quarantine-wear has mostly consisted of sweats and a t-shirt, that is until I found some great buys at target.com. Now I’m mostly hanging in lounge wear that is not only comfortable and stylish but wait for it...affordable. Check out these comfy, cool pants (they also have comfy shorts) from the private label Goodfellow & Co. Target never seems to disappoint.

Check out more lounge pant styles at target.com

To compliment these cool lounge clothes you definitely want to keep your feet comforted. Ugg slippers are a favorite in my home. In fact, my wife got me a pair for Father’s Day a few years past and I still have to fight my boys to wear them cause they keep stealing them. Oh well, I guess it could be worse, they could be stealing my clothes! Oh wait, they do that too! Arrgh!

The unrest our country is experiencing these days and the political nightmare we are living through will force anyone into a tailspin. Chances are you need assistance in calming down your mind and spirit. I for one have been on the path of teaching myself some deep meditation techniques to keep my inner world sane. Check out these books for some food for the soul. I hope you like them as much as I do:

Becoming Supernatural The Impersonal Life The Four Agreements

**Calm Down Your Mind**

Techniques to keep my inner world sane!

*Fun Fact - Elvis Presley was a big fan of Benner’s writings. In fact, during the last 13 years of his life, Presley gave away hundreds of copies as gifts and this book was allegedly with him on the night he died.

If you really want to make an impression on dad, one that will be sure to tug at his heart strings, make him a “I Love Because…” book to show how much he means to the entire family. What is an “I Love You Because…” book?

A book made by you that states one reason on each page why you love dad. It can be statements as simple as “I Love You Because… you give the best hugs.” Or “I Love You Because… you always read to me before bedtime and make me feel safe.” Include some pictures with dad and the kids or simply have your little ones add their artistic flare with crayons. Whatever you choose, dad will definitely appreciate seeing your words come to life on paper.

A page from my book I Love You Because….

A Dad Coupon Book is another route to go. What’s a Dad Coupon Book? Well it’s simply a book of coupons devoted to making dad feel #1. Create coupons Dad can redeem at his leisure like: Good for One Hug and A coupon for Dad and Me alone time. Get creative and let dad know how special his relationship is to you and the entire family. How can you go wrong when you create a gift that speaks from the heart.

A perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy

These are just a few thoughts to get the ball rolling. Remember at the end of the day, the most important gift you can give to your father is a simple phrase expressing how much he means to you.

Cheers to your big day, Dad. Hope this year your Father’s Day is filled with peace, love, joy and above all good health!

Father's Day 2020