Dad's birthday should be as special and thoughtful as he is.
Fatherly birthday gifts can be tough to buy, often because it's hard for sons and daughters to think of Dad as an individual and not just a father. Before buying a birthday gift for your father, dig a little deeper into who he is --- as a person --- to discover a gift you can be sure he'll be genuinely delighted to receive.
Sporting Equipment
A new set of golf clubs can stimulate Dad to get back on the fairway.
Rummage through Dad's collection of sports gear and look for items that need to be fixed or replaced as well as things that need to be thrown out and upgraded. Chances are, you'll find both, since many dads put off buying gifts for themselves. Are his golf clubs as old as you? Invest in a new set for him if you can afford it; if that's too pricey, settle for one or two new clubs and a basket of golf accessories (visor, tees, balls, etc.). If you notice things that need to be fixed, haul them into the repair shop and foot the bill. Something as simple as mending the soles on a favorite pair of hiking boots can be an especially thoughtful gift for your father.
Professional Consultation
Throw in a good book to complete your father's jump-started project.
Give your dad a little push to work on a project or activity he's been putting off for a while by arranging a consultation with a professional in the field. Does he want to remodel the back deck? Hire a carpenter to spend a few hours brainstorming and planning with your dad. Or, maybe he wants to start playing the stock market. In that case, hire a broker or financial analyst to explain the ins and outs of Wall Street and run him through a few practice buys and sells. Since the consultation will be just a one-time experience, buy your Dad the best, most authoritative book (or a couple of books) you can find on the subject.
Hire a professional to help give your dad a new look. If he is thick-skinned and has a good sense of humor, hire a style consultant to help update your dad's wardrobe and appearance. Doing so will give him a renewed sense of youth and energy. Personal shoppers can help Dad make new clothing choices.
Trip
Get the map and pick a place for you and Dad to get away together.
Spend some quality time with your dad for his birthday; take him on a trip you know he'll enjoy. Is he an outdoors enthusiast? Take him whitewater rafting or hiking on the closest mountains (or the Appalachian Trail!). Is he an admitted history buff? Plan a road trip together that takes you on a journey through fascinating historical points of interest. Does he love music? Hit the road armed with tour dates and local band calendars. Let him pick the bands and venues; you buy the tickets and enjoy getting to hang out with your dad on his birthday.
