The Haven

Next Sunday, June 19th, is known in the U.S. and a lot of other places around the world as Father's Day.  Every year on the 3rd Sunday of June we honor our fathers or father figures. So what do you give the man who has everything or wants nothing (and doesn't need a tie)?  That all depends on the man in question.  In my experience, most men don't really like the spectacle of receiving gifts in front of other people.  It seems to makes them feel awkward.  So instead of wrapping up a pretty gift, consider doing something for or with the man of honor. Host a backyard barbecue for the family and you've got a nice Father's Day for both Dad and Hubby.  Give Hubby the weekend off from that honey-do list and let him spend his time on the computer, or in front of ESPN, or whatever it is he likes to do.  Take your Dad out to breakfast, just the two of you. If you don't live nearby, send him a book you read or CD you listened to that you think he would enjo...

June brings the beginning of Summer.  The weather is warming towards hot and the kids are home from school.  It's the perfect time for outdoor fun!  Not only will you enjoy the healing rays of the sun (don't forget the sunscreen!), but the fresh air and sunshine will help burn off the extra energy kids seem to have in the summer. Make a Summer playlist for your music player and take it with you. Head to the beach, lake, or pool for some water fun. Spend the day at the park and have a picnic lunch. Create sidewalk art with chalk on your driveway or porch. Go for a walk around your neighborhood. Go to a baseball game. Plant a vegetable garden. Visit a local street fair or farmer's market. Chase butterflies, frogs, lizards, and fireflies (please don't try to keep them). If your town still has one, go to a drive-in movie. Go camping and sleep outside; even if it's only in your own back yard. Even if you don't have small children, you can still enjoy the ...