When I heard the shocking news about our losing Tim Russert to a heart attack yesterday, I remembered the following article that I had put up on our bella Midlife site two years ago when Tim had already written his first book honoring his Father who he endearingly called "Big Russ"; so, just as an 'in memoriam' to Russ, I'm republishing the article with a few tweaks in it - just to kind of say I'm thinking of Tim and his family at this time and send my deepest condolences for their loss. Tim and his family had just returned from a trip to Italy when he passed away suddenly. I will miss his smiling face on TV. He was the type of person that radiated such warmth and friendliness whenever I saw him on the screen. The loss of Tim Russert at such a fairly young age in life, has been a real wake-up call for me, and should be for all reading this article.

Although somewhat revised, here is most of the article that was published on my 'Midlife' two years ago.

Have we remembered Dad for Father's Day? I hope it won't be just another tie or sweater. I'm sure he's hoping it won't be another tie or sweater. I wanted to read and review a book entitled, Wisdom of Our Fathers, by Tim Russert. Unfortunately, even though I found my way to his website featuring his newest book, (www.wisdomofourfathers.com), my two emails to him went unanswered - not a fruitful way to promote a book (sorry Tim). Since I felt sure an Editor would not be ignored, I patiently waited for my copy of either an audio or e-book to find its way to me. (Tim's first book about his Dad, 'Big Russ and me -Father and Son, Lessons of Life', was a runaway hit and on the New York Times' Best Seller list).

Well, I was wrong - no communication - no book, no audio - Nada, Zip, (unfortunately) End of story. So, here I am at Plan B. Now, even though it is the 12th hour as far as shopping for Dad, let's see if we can't come up with some imaginative gifts for the last minute shoppers.


Gift Suggestions

If Dad is a retired, stay at home type Dad - and he doesn't have many activities he participates in - maybe signing him up for something would interest him:

* DVD / CD enrollment club -- Columbiahouse.com
* sports betting account (provided he's not a former gambler)
* monthly fruit (Harry and David.com) (it's nice to have something to
look forward to receiving each month)

Gift Certificates for:

* Home Depot
* Starbucks Coffee
* Panera Bread
* Pre-paid MOVIES
* Blockbuster
* Sharper Image
* A Massage at local salon
* Borders Books / Barnes & Noble
* E-bay shopping
* Brookstone
* Amazon.com

How about a special one-on-one gift?

Make a Plan:

-Take Dad out to lunch - just the two of you
-Take Dad for a day of golf
-Take Dad to a sports game (if he likes sports, that is)
-Take Dad to a Concert - a favorite singer? a favorite comedian? (my girlfriend saw Jerry Seinfeld in person - loved him!)

Special Services

-Wash Dad's car / Wax Dad's car
(have the grandkids give him specially made up slips that say ONE FREE car wash)

-Mow the Lawn for 1 Month, 2 Months (you get the idea!)

-Clean the gutters on his house (men only please)

-Make him up a little scrapbook with pictures, momentos, etc..


I hope you will find some useful ideas here - remember it's the thought that counts. People always know when you have put thoughtfulness into your gifts. That is what warms the cockels of the heart!

To those of you who came from single parent households, whose Mothers wore the hats of both Mother and Father - remember Mom for the dual role that she played and honor her as well for being there for you.

Enjoy your Father's Day. For those of you whose Dads are still with you - enjoy them while you can. Give him a lot of attention on Dad's day. Ask and encourage him to tell you some stories about experiences in his life - then, listen to him - I mean, really listen. They've seen and experienced a lot. You can reap such rewards from their experience and knowledge. You would do well to listen and grow wiser...and maybe you'll even learn something new about your Dad that you never knew - or - realized before...

Happy Father's Day to All!