Celebrating Father's Day Without Him

How to Turn that Frown Upside Down

Father's Day is usually a happy occasion celebrated with families coming together to honor dear old Dad but what happens when Dad is no longer living? Gone but not forgotten, Dad still deserves the same honors which were so lovingly bestowed upon him in life. A once joyful occasion, now sorrowful, doesn't have to become a day of mourning.

This Father's Day, although sad, does not have to be morose. Family traditions can still be carried out and instead of tearful memories, think about the things that made you, and Dad, both smile.

Most of the father's that I know aren't all that sentimental. They wouldn't want their families depressed and crying on a beautiful June day. They'd much rather see them having fun, laughing and enjoying themselves. Keeping that in mind, think of the things that made your father smile. What was he good at? Or what did he "think" he was good at? How did he spend his free time? Choose one of his favorites and base the day around that instead of basing it on his absence.

If Dad was a golf enthusiast, go out and shoot a few holes - use one of his clubs. Whether or not you are any good at it doesn't matter and if you really stink, it could even be more fun.

Did Dad love to go fishing? Grab a handful of bait, a line, a hook, a sinker and hit the lake, or the beach, or jump on that ratty party boat he used to love.

Was Dad a couch potato? Did he like to watch those corny black and white movies? Go ahead and pop some corn then plop yourself down in front of the television for a Humphrey Bogart marathon or go rent a bunch of his favorite movies or old situation comedies.

Did Dad love to eat? Barbeque his favorite meal outside on the grill. Was he one of those father's who burned everything on the outside while the middle remained bloody and red? Do it! Did he have a special recipe for five alarm chili? Make it and then eat it until your eyes water from the spices, not the tears. Did he have a sweet tooth? Have super-duper-sized hot fudge sundaes this Father's Day or, better yet, have all of his favorite desserts for dinner on his special day.