Christmas is right around the corner and if you are like me, you are probably reading this on Christmas Eve wondering why Amazon hasn’t got that whole delivery within an hour or drone thing going on yet. If it’s the day before Christmas, I may be able to help you out but I’d suggest bookmarking this article for next year.
Below you will find a list of ideas for dad on Christmas. These ideas are based on the things that I’ve received, bought, or coveted over the years. They may not be right for your dad or baby daddy, or grandpa or baby grandpa (is that even a thing), but then again, they might. If they are right for you and yours, you are welcome.
#9 – Nalgene Wide-Mouth Loop-Top Water Bottle – I had my first Nalgene for 14 years and I used it everyday. I only had to replace it because it was punctured under a load of wood in the back of our RTV. I didn’t realize the wood had deck screws poking out.
They are rugged and I’ve even used it to roll on when trying to crack my back or massage my legs.
Even if dad isn’t a camper or backpacker, it’s great just to have on the desk. It holds 32 oz so dad can keep track of his daily water intake. BPA free (whatever that means).
#8 – If your dad is super rugged, like me, he may want to grind his own coffee beans. I use this beast every day.
I like it because it’s adjustable. I can grind the beans fine for my pour over cover or more coarse for use in my French Press mug. It only takes about 30 seconds to grind enough for a cup of coffee.
#7 – Wilderness Expedition with Wilderness Outreach – Does your dad love the outdoors? Does he love the mountains of the American West? Does he love his Catholic Faith or growing in his Faith? Does he enjoy work, asceticism, camping, praying, hiking, and brotherhood? If so, an Expedition may be something to offer for Christmas. I’ve been on four expeditions and they are life-changing.
#6 – A gift subscription to Audible – I love to read but I love it even more when someone reads to me. I don’t always have time to read all the books I want to so thankfully there’s Audible so that I can listen to the books while doing other things like walking, driving, or making rosaries. The audio books are very affordable and yearly subscriptions make them even more so. Plus, dad can listen on his phone, computer, Kindle, or MP3 player! My Audible library has hundreds of titles that I’ve purchased over the years. With over 180,000 titles, dad is sure to find a great book. I’d recommend The Gates of Fire and The Count of Monte Cristo to start.
#5 –Secret Messages from the Saints: 365 Cryptoquote Puzzles – Yes, this is my book. Yes, I’m a little nerdy for creating it. However, in my defense, I love the challenge of deciphering each puzzle. If your dad like word puzzles, crosswords, or other similar challenges, this may be the perfect gift. If you’d like to check out examples, I post puzzles everyday here. Or you can download the first 20+ puzzles to get a real taste here.
#4 – A Personal Journal – I know, most dad’s aren’t going to be jumping up and down with joy when they receive this gift. However, it’s a gift to them that they, in turn, can give back to you. These are more than mere journals. They contain 12 questions or statements per month to help dad get started on writing down his life, experience, and wisdom. I’d love to have a shelf full of these from my dad, grandfather, great-grandfather and so on. He’ll see the wisdom and beauty of passing on his memories if you but ask.
#3* – Pocket/Pen Knife – I cannot remember a time that my father did not have a pocket knife. My grandfather always had a pocket knife as well. In fact, when he died, they discovered loads of pocket knives and the grandsons each received one. I now have at least half a dozen pocket knives sitting on my dressing shelf.
Each one has it’s own history, personality, and use. Don’t roll your eyes, I’m serious. Where I’m going or what I’ll be doing that day determines which knife I bring along. DO NOT CALL IT AN ACCESSORY!! I’m not a fan of sheath knives, nor is anyone in line at the bank. Nor am I in favor of pocket knife so big I walk with a limp. I prefer a compact, old fashioned 2-3 blade knife that is sharp, easy to use, and fits well in my pocket without being bulky. If you are really trying to win points, have it engraved! Click here for reasons why every man should carry a pocket knife.
#2 – Sword & Spade Magazine – Yes, you read that right, a magazine. But not just any magazine. Sword & Spade is a magazine for Catholic Men who are striving to be holy husbands, fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and priests. There’s something manly about receiving a physical copy of the magazine each quarter. If you are a “guild member” you also receive four books each year. I’ve been extremely pleased with both the magazine and the books. My only complaint is that I wish the magazine were thicker or maybe I shouldn’t devour it in one sitting…
#1 – A Handwritten Note – This is probably the least expensive gift on the list but one that costs us the most. It may not be easy to do but it will be worth it and you won’t regret it. Take time to write dad a note. Tell him what he means to you, how much you appreciate all he has done for you. Recall wonderful memories and jot them down for him. Chances are he may not even remember the event or think it was significant and will be moved to know how it affected you. I’ve spoken to too many people who regret not doing this simple act with a pen and paper. Even if your father is no longer with you, write the note. If your father wasn’t the best, write it to a father figure in your life – a priest, grandfather, cousin, co-worker, etc. Tell a the man/father figure in your life that you love him, admire him, and are praying for him. We dads need it, even if we act like we don’t. Happy Advent & Merry Christmas!
James M. Hahn, Author 
