Online - June 10, 2005

Luke, I Am Your Father

Father's Day Guide 2005

For every dad, there’s a catchphrase that sums him up in his kids’ eyes. It says a lot about him — like, for instance, what to get him for Father’s Day. Below, a guide to giving based on what he’s best known for dishing out.

“Breakfast is the most important
meal of the day.”

Amen to that. Hand him a bottle of Moosewood Hollow’s infused maple syrup (flavors include lavender, ginger, and habanero pepper), and his famous pancakes will seem more essential than ever.

“Don’t make me turn this car around.”

Tough guy, is he? He’ll cherish the Clint Eastwood Western collection for years to come. Give him Zingerman’s Big Box of Meat to snack on while he watches, and he won’t have to say “Go ahead, make my day.”

“A woman’s place? Anywhere
but near the grill.”

The man can never have too many barbecue accessories. Bug Off, the mosquito-repelling BBQ light, will be a welcome addition. To spice things up, get him the Global Grilling Kit or a cool make-your-own-hot sauce kit.

“Yeah, I like to keep up with what
the kids are into.”

Aww. Dad thinks he’s all hip. Make it so with a pair of John Varvatos for Converse sneaks and some neo-’80s indie-pop sounds, courtesy of Chicago’s The Changes.

“But, honey, I can’t help it if the kids
think I’m the fun parent.”

A kid at heart, old pops is. Lee Allison’s handmade silk ties come in tons of playful designs — foosball, fly-fishing, sharks carrying briefcases — to suit his not-so-serious side, as will a pair of Willy Wonka Golden Ticket cuff links.

“I didn’t raise you to sit on your tush.”

Maybe not, but he’s definitely earned the right to do so himself. Give him the day off to lounge in his cozy Brooks Brothers PJs or send him off to practice his swing on the Golf Launchpad while a robot lawn mower does his chores.

That ought to keep him from bossing you around — at least for a few hours.