Get a gift for . . . DAD

Next up in our gift-giving extravaganza is dad. Dads can be either one of the easiest (eg, your dad likes a particular sport like golfing or baseball) or the most difficult (eg, your dad likes golf or baseball, but has every piece of memorabilia/jersey/equipment for that sport made by man) persons to buy for on your gift list. Hopefully this helps, or at least jump starts an idea or two.


Sick of seeing dad drinking out of one of those toxic-smelling foam can coolers? Why not give him an upgrade with these embossed leather can caddies from Orvis? The inside of the caddie boasts neoprene liner, which is the same material used in wetsuits ($119.00 for a set of 4).

If your dad is a slave to the office, give him something good to look at (besides the desk photos of you from first grade) with a framed print from imagekind. The site has thousands of well-known artists to choose from, but I am partial to picking up a print from a member, like Daniel Pelavin. His work is masculine, without being too overpowering for office decor.


What's the draw to Flight Simulator? I can remember my dad playing it when I was a kid, and it's still proving to be a hit among pilot wannabes (and some pilots, even) today. If you can remember your dad playing the original, or have caught him watching those "History of Flight" programs on TV, then this might be the perfect gift for him. ($44.99 at Amazon.com)


Don't forget the joystick! ($58.02, also at Amazon.com)

Maybe your dad enjoys the simpler things in life, like a nice cold Jones Soda. Did you know you can personalize a pack with a family photo? For $29.99, you can choose from multiple flavors, such as Green Apple, Root Beer, Berry Lemonade, and Cream Soda. Also available in sugar free!


Want to give your dad something less common? How about a handmade bird call from uncommon goods? Choose from Woodpecker, Blackbird, and American Robin. (starting at $38.00)


And finally, if your dad can't seem to take a hint, pick up this grooming kit from Eddie Bauer. It has a folding toothbrush, comb, nail clippers, and a nose and ear hair trimmer (hint, hint). ($29.50)