Make It a Real Treat for Dad, BBQing on Father's Day

By Laura Medina

Backyard Lanterns

Sunday is more than just Father's Day, it's Summer.

So, give him what he really wants because they're something he can use-without a second thought. Better yet, give him something that wouldn't have him scratching his head.

Most men can't wait to start grilling, from the East Coast to West Coast. Regardless if he's vegan grilling hardy veggie kabobs or an average Joe feeding a finicky family, this backyard gift has him covered.

In setting up Sunday evening, he can set out some lights with bug-repellant candles in these Pottery Barn lanterns, http://www.potterybarn.com/products/capri-lantern-select-items/?pkey=clights-lantern-outdoor, $39-$79.

Filson Tote Bag

He can bring out his grilling tools and gear in this nifty tote/tool bag/briefcase from Filson,

Filson Tote Bag with Zipper, http://www.filson.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2092406&cp=2065674.2065687.2065708&view=all&parentPage=family, $135.

Packets of Seeds

Him and the kids can grow side dishes with these packets of seeds from Hudson Valley Seed Library, http://seedlibrary.org/catalog/?seed=art_packs__full_set, $52.

Wine Trivia Game

Obviously, this is for the organic, gourmet family or he needs something to entertain the neighbors and friends. Break out the wine and the bubbly then have the adults guess with
Wine Wars, http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,8191/path,1-8-54/title,Wine-Wars/, $19.95

Grill Charms

Here is the most important part of any BBQ, the food: the meats and the veggies, even hard fruits like melons, pineapples, apples, and peaches.

Since we're considerate to food allegries, sensitive tummies, picky palettes, and salty hypertension, mom inventor and breast cancer survivor, Leslie Haywood thoughtfully solved this mind-bending dilemmena with her cute Grill Charms.

Each distinctive design on each charm signifies which is spicy or not and how well done a meat is without cutting into it. Have guests pick which food is what then have them tell Mr. Dad if they like it spicy or clean, medium rare or well-done then have them pick a charm then insert the serrated charms into the meat then flip it on the grill. This cuts down on picking which one is whose and makes for a more peaceful night. Plus, these adorable charms make everything special. Too bad, they can't double as cuff links, sorry.

You can get your Grill Charms on http://www.grillcharms.com/. It's a cute solution to smoothing vexing tastes.

Now, your dad can BBQ to his heart's content.