Non-consumer Father's Day gift ideas

Here are some ideas for celebrating Father's Day in a Compact-y way...

Your dad probably doesn't need another tie. What most dads really want is to spend time with you, so try these experiences instead:

1. Camping- Get out in nature, pitch a tent, start a fire, and bond. You might even want to make it a tradition.

2. Fishing- Similarly, it's about nature and bonding. And the meditative aspect might be good for some heartfelt conversation.

3. Other outdoor activities- Hiking, biking, kayaking and canoeing...the options are endless.

4. Golf- Enjoy a beautiful day on the fairway. If you're not golfers, take a lesson together.

5. Go Kart racing- A fun option that will get the adrenaline pumping.

6. Ballgame- Go see his favorite sports team together. Check out ticket prices on ebay or Craigslist.

7. Concert- If your father enjoys music, this can be a lot of fun, especially in the summertime with a picnic. I took my dad to a Dave Brubeck concert on the bay in San Diego a few years ago and he loved it.

8. Beer or wine tasting- A good option if your dad isn't the sporty type.

Remember, you don't have to do these things ON Father's Day. You can give him a card and plan a date.

And if none of these ideas fit the bill, or your dad is infirm or lives far away, homemade gifts or food are always an option:

1. A handmade card. Mine (above) shows my dad and I on two different beach days when I was young (and so was he!)

2. If you're an artist or photographer, have one of your creations put onto a mug or a t-shirt. My husband does this all the time with his caricatures and they are really great gifts. It's fun to see who will notice if you're wearing a caricature of yourself.

3. Bake bread, cookies, brownies, a pie, or a cake. My dad's favorite is gingerbread, and he always gets two loaves.

4. If he lives alone, cooking his favorite meal is a thoughtful gesture. Especially if he's older, he probably doesn't cook much more for himself than a frozen dinner.

Those are just a few ideas for celebrating Father's Day without spending a lot of money. Spend TIME instead. Figure out what would be meaningful for your dad, and get creative. Tell me your gift ideas or some of your best Father's Day memories in the Comments section.