It’s Dad’s birthday in our house today, and (as usual) we are trying to be budget friendly, and conservative in our choices of showering him with gifts.

With Dad choosing to be out with the Search & Rescue boys for the day, that leave us lots of time to prepare and surprise at home!

Coupon Books

The kids LOVE giving coupon books. The process of creating these, thinking what dad would love, and what would be “valuable” to him.

These are filled with gems like A “don’t wake me up coupon” and a coupon for a “snuggle free night” so Dad can have the comfy couch all to himself.

My all time favorite is the “bathroom pass” which allows dad to jump the bathroom line in our one bath house. A little note on the bottom says “Use when you REALLY have to go”

Dealing with the sore spots
Dad’s (like moms) all have a “most hated” responsibility. This year, the kids and I are tackling the area of our house that Dad hates the most: THE PLAYROOM.

That dreaded zone where kids gets lost and the 7yr old hoarder in our house thrives. We are purging, cleaning and donating unused toys . .  just for Dad!

Feed his belly and you’ll feed his heart
Our dad will come home to BBQ steak topped with blue cheese and mushrooms, as well as twice baked potatoes (OMG deadly delicious and a soon-to-be added recipe under my “ugly food that tastes great” column)  And, this will be the first crack at his new BBQ, finally replaced after our move!
And, of course, Peanut Butter Fudge for dessert.
Oh, and beer. Always beer.

I think Dad is going to be pretty happy to NOT come home to a pile of things that will get added to the basement, garage or media cabinet. Simple, affordable and productive- this is the way we chose to live our life when we moved here and by reminded ourselves, and making time to plan and prepare, we are keeping maintaining it.

So, no last minute runs to the mall for us – just cleaning, creating and cooking this birthday!