Time for Dad (and Others)

Alright, I know I'm a little late for Father's Day this year.  I'm sure you're disappointed that I didn't write a post about the latest tie trends, or even better yet, what your dad can do with all those novelty ties gifted to him over the years.

I don't know about your father, but mine along with my father-in-law have everything, so it's difficult to buy gifts for them.  They don't need anything and they don't want anything, but how could I not get them something for Father's Day?  So, I racked my brain and came up with...munchies!  I don't know which guy doesn't like munchies (my husband is a notorious munchie muncher; munchies in the house don't stand a chance), and in the end, dad and dad-in-law got different varieties of nuts from Trader Joe's.

There was another thing, however, that I and my husband gave to our dads this past Father's Day--time.  As my father doesn't live nearby, we called and spoke with him on speaker, making sure he knew he was remembered and loved.  We listened to what he wanted to tell us.  Since my father-in-law lives within driving distance, we took him out for lunch and had a pleasant afternoon with him.

Munchies and (maybe) ties are all very well, but it's quality time spent with dad and others dear to us that make the best gifts.  Giving of yourself makes all the difference in the world.  Years from now, your father may not remember what you gave him on a particular Father's Day, but he's sure to remember the great time he spent with you on his special day.

Sending out love and good vibes to you from the perch.

Here's to Your (Summer) Health

Summer is a great time of year.  It's a time to be outdoors hiking, swimming, bike riding, camping, playing games, and being active.  It's also a time to be cautious and mindful of your health, something I was reminded of recently when my husband needed to be rushed to the ER.

Here are some important tips to follow in keeping safe and healthy during the hot summer months:

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.  When it's really hot outside, be sure to drink plenty of water, even when you don't feel too thirsty.  Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are no laughing matter.
• Use sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.  Sunburns and skin cancer are nothing to joke about.  Slop on that sunscreen and slap on that hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
  
• Use insect repellent.  Mosquito bites are itchy and uncomfortable, and stings from bees or wasps can be dangerous.  Spray on the repellent and keep away from buzzing airborne things.
  
• Check for ticks.  There is currently no cure for lyme disease, which is serious and causes a whole array of health issues.  When going outdoors in tick-inhabited areas, tuck long pants into socks and do a body check for the pests as soon as you get home, pulling out any ticks from skin and seeking medical care.
• Food safety.  Everyone loves a summer barbecue or picnic, but no one wants to get food poisoning.  Don't keep salads and sandwiches with mayonnaise out too long, and be sure to cook meats thoroughly.
• Swim safety.  Even if you're an experienced swimmer, it's always a good idea to have a swim buddy, and it helps to swim where lifeguards are present.

So, get outside and enjoy the weather!  Have plenty of fun this summer, but don't let safety take a vacation with you.

With warm summer wishes from the perch.