Celebrating Father’s Day without Dad

Celebrating Father’s Day without Dad

It wasn’t until I got married that I realized the value of Father’s Day. My father-in-law lives in great contrast to my biological father, as does my husband. They make it a great joy to celebrate dads. But I didn’t grow up with them.

I was raised by a single mom (just like at least ten million other families in America today), and as a kid, this holiday simply reminded me of all I didn’t have. It was awkward, uncomfortable, and elicited more than a little anger and bitterness. If your family is without a father or a clear reason to celebrate, I challenge you to still make this season special.

If dad has passed away …
Celebrate his life! Kristina recently wrote about ways to hold a backyard tailgate party. You can still do this in honor of Dad’s memory and his favorite sport.

Another great way to remember Dad is to plant a tree. Not only is this beneficial for the landscaping and the environment, it will also give you a ready memorial that grows throughout the year. You can also create a Father’s Day tradition of hanging notes of special memories from the branches.

If dad is overseas …
Celebrate his service - https://redkeks.com.ua/! Many fathers are sacrificing their Father’s Day to protect and preserve our freedoms. We want to honor them. Get on Skype and let him know how much he is loved and missed. Then, when he comes home safe and sound, party like it’s nobody’s business.

If dad is out of the picture …
There are two sides to this coin. It is possible you never knew your father (or your kids never knew theirs). In that case, Father’s Day provides another excellent opportunity to celebrate moms. Questions are natural and naturally difficult to answer. But not having something (like a father) can make one appreciate what they do have (like a good mother) all the more. Check out our tips for Mother’s Day and do it all over again. Trust me: she won’t mind repetition.

The other side the coin: dad simply isn’t what he ought to be. Rather than bad-mouthing him or making excuses, simply create another source of joy. If you have a surrogate father, like a father-in-law or a strong male mentor, celebrate him instead. If it’s your kids who are missing out, be sure to acknowledge their disappointment, but make the weekend extra special. Take them on an overnight getaway or even a one-day excursion. If you’ve networked with other single moms, include the whole group in a picnic featuring Apple Cider Grilled Baby Back Ribs or Pulled BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwiches. You could even organize a mom-and-kids-only Olympics complete with a three-legged race, backyard badminton or a video game competition. Or maybe a pie-eating contest? I recommend a Glazed Peach.

If you’re a single mom alone on Father’s Day …
Take advantage of the kid-free weekend! Go shopping. Get some girlfriends to join you on a spa day. Fill the house with chick flicks and great food. (No mac-n-cheese or chicken nuggets this weekend!) Instead try some Grilled Rack of Lamb, Candied Garlic Salmon or a warm lobster salad. Divine!