ALT-2 Why the best Fathers Day Gifts Aren’t the most Expensive
We're all feeling it. The pain at the pump and rising food prices have most of us trying to find ways to maneuver some very tight budgets. What you don't need to stress over is the price of that perfect Father's Day gift. After all, the best gifts don't necessarily have to be the most expensive.
In a world that continues to commercialize family celebrations and religious holidays, it can be easy to feel tempted to "do it big." But overextending your budget isn't a gift at all. It's not a gift to Dad and, certainly, not to yourself.
The gift your dad or any father figure will cherish most of all really won't cost you a thing. What your father wants, just like any parent, is simply some APPRECIATION. And appreciation doesn't have a huge price tag. Whether you live nearby or far, it won't cost you much to let your dad know how much he's loved. Parenting can feel like a thankless job at times, but just hearing the words "I love you" or "thanks for all you've done", make it all worthwhile.
If you are blessed with big pockets and plenty of spending money, there's nothing wrong with going "all out" for Dear Old Dad. If, on the other hand, you're having to pinch your pennies, there are plenty of ways to show Pops that he's appreciated:
A FAMILY DVD OR PHOTO COLLAGEMany of us have lots of photographs collecting dust when they were meant to be shared and enjoyed. With very little money, time, or effort these photos can be turned into priceless family keepsakes. Set to music, your photographs can take on new life as a one-of-kind DVD movie. Feeling a little computer challenged? Take those photos out of the shoebox and place them in a collage picture frame. Either way, Dad will love the nostalgia of old family photographs.
BREAKFAST IN BEDIf you're still living at home, you have a great opportunity to pamper your dad. Serving someone breakfast in bed, no matter how simple or extravagant the meal, is a wonderful way of letting them know that this is "their day."
DAD'S DAY OFFGive Dad a break from his "honey do list" and take care of some of those chores yourself. A little time and sweat is all that this should cost you and Dad will really appreciate the time off. Maybe stop by and mow the lawn or seal that deck that's been needing some attention. If you have siblings this would be a great opportunity to get together and tackle some larger projects like painting or cleaning the gutters. Just let Dad sit back in his favorite chair and channel surf.
DINNER IN OR DINNER OUTYou've got to eat too, so why not enjoy dinner with Dad? Whether you treat him to a home cooked meal or take him to a local restaurant, he will appreciate the chance to catch up over the dinner table. If you choose to dine out, there are many websites that now offer half-price gift certifates to restaurants. A $50 meal will only cost you $25. A deal like that automatically makes the food taste better.
HOMEMADE CARDSYou may be one of the many folks saying "cheesy," but homemade doesn't necessarily mean construction paper and crayons anymore. With a little time on the computer, you can create cards that are far more personal than those in your local greeting card aisle and just as professional looking. If you're having trouble coming up with your own words, you can find many websites that are offering free Father's Day poems.
You see, it doesn't cost a lot to say thanks. These are just a few of the ways to show your father how much he's appreciated. The most important thing is to not let the opportunity pass you by.
