Happy Father's Day!

Happy Dad's Day to all the fathers out there, but specifically my fav Daddio. Growing up on 10 acres with a dad who loved nature really helped instill an appreciation of the environment in me. Here are some tips from the Sierra Club about the greenest ways to thank our dads.

Tip #1: Go hiking.
If you live near your parents, take them for a hike. With so much nature in Erie, Pa., we have treks ranging from easy strolls to strenuous excursions. If your dad is like most, he just wants to spend time with you, and what better way than in an outdoor place of beauty? Take advantage of this good excuse to get out there and spend some quality time with your folks.

Tip #2: Get crafty.
One of the simplest ways to give Dad a green gift is to be creative with objects you find around the house. A crafted present will likely take a little longer than a bought one, but it'll also remind him of the macaroni-picture-frame days of yore. You could go classic and make him a custom tie, for example, or keep it simple and press some flowers on a card. Sierra magazine's Repurpose column provides good ideas for enlivening old stuff.

Tip #3: Cook a local dinner.
Take an hour or so over the weekend to prepare some delicious, hearty local food for Dad. Summer's just begun, so our farmers' markets are in full swing, with plenty of seasonal, ethically farmed options. Local Harvest's directory lists farmers' markets across America (although not all of Erie's farmers' markets deets are listed). Once you’ve found your ingredients, decide on something exciting to cook.

Tip #4: Plug him into renewable energy.
If your dad loves gadgets, consider getting him a solar-powered charger for his laptop, phone, iPod, or other favorite electronic. Dad'll be saving energy, and you'll be likelier to convince him to go camping with you: Solar power doesn’t need a plug, so he won’t miss any important calls out in the woods.


Dad and I on Mother's Day (mom was taking this picture)
along Four Mile Creek in the Wintergreen Gorge.