I know most of you Dads, like, ahem, my husband, probably haven't yet made a plan, or bought a gift for the mother of your children, but there's still time -- though time, as they say, is ticking. You have today and tomorrow only. So get moving. And nothing says "I love you and appreciate everything you do to help raise our children" like a good book AND the time to lie on the couch, the porch swing or hammock and actually read said book.
So, right now, do these things, in this order:
1) Book a reservation for brunch on Sunday -- yes, breakfast in bed cooked by the kids is sweet, but she'll only be thinking of the mess in the kitchen and won't really be able to enjoy it, so take it from me: take her out
2) Go to your local store and buy one (or more!) of these books: Things I Want My Daughters to Know by Elizabeth Noble -- she will laugh AND cry and you'll look so compassionate and aware of British authors (the ladies love the Brits)
The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan -- very popular with the mommies, she's probably seen the video, trust me and you'll look so sensitive
Belong to Me by Marisa de los Santos -- she read Love Walked In, I'm sure, and wants this new novel from de los Santos and you'll look as though you've paid attention to the books on her bedside table
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout -- just won the Pulitzer Prize and you'll look so "in the know"
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson -- the hottest book in book clubs these days and you'll look like you did your research
(all links bring you to my almost local bookstore, Clinton Book Shop in Clinton, NJ. You can also follow Clinton Book Shop on Twitter)
3) buy a card and pledge in the card to allot Mom 3, 4, or 5 (!) hours in which to simply read while you entertain the kids
Now, can someone send this post to my husband?
