Q: I just learned that the first Father's Day was in 1910 in Spokane, Washington. I did not realize that it came about because its founder, Sonora Smart Dodd, was upset that fathers weren't considered very important in popular culture. Her father took care of her and her siblings after her mother died. Grateful for his love and care, Dodd urged the legislature to create the day.

My husband and I have three children. The youngest is 8. We love each other very much. He loves us, takes excellent care of us, shares our aches and pains, and protects us. We try to make every Father's Day his best ever! But this year we are running out of ideas.

Participating in a sports event is mostly an activity for males. But should we take the family to a game? What about a professional massage gift certificate? Or maybe go to a car show nearby?

A: Has your family gotten together recently? Perhaps a trip to the farm to enjoy horseback riding or just hang out and watch the animals. This is an experience that city folks now rarely experience.

Have you challenged one another at the bowling alley? That's a fun family activity.

Make breakfast in bed for Dad, and join him as he eats to have a relaxing morning. That's a winning idea.

Or, bake his favorite cookies. He shouldn't have to share!

As a family, you could create a large Father's Day card and each draw a picture of him. Getting creative can produce a cute and fun result.

Every father could use a nice folding patio chair.

The most important gift is to have the entire family together on his day. If that's not possible, a telephone call is second best. Enjoy! — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

KEEP LOOKING FORWARD

Q: Normally, as people begin aging, we begin to think about our futures and asking questions. What lies ahead? Can I continue to take care of myself? How long will I be able to drive? Have I saved enough money to sustain myself? These are the things that cross our mind. Can you give me any helpful advice?

A: As there are many who have gone before us and had those same thoughts, advice is readily available. Health is usually the top priority. It's common that when we begin asking ourselves these questions, we prefer not to share our thoughts with our families. We don't want them to be overly concerned or scared. But the reality is, nobody wants to lose independence and health.

However, as time progresses, we need to accept the fact that we'll need help from others, and we need to consider the best choices. Families that band together are loving and helpful. Keep in touch and respond to your loved ones, and be thankful for them and their help. That will serve you well when you begin going through big life changes. — Doug

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at deardoug@msn.com. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.