Springtime breezes stir fond memories of Papa teaching me and my siblings how to make and fly a diamond kite.  We made the kite from scratch with materials we had on hand – except for the wooden dowels that we purchased at a local hobby shop. Papa showed us how to create a tail, and attach the string, too. Then, we’d head out to an open field on a breezy day and set the kite aloft.  It was so much fun – and the best part was having Papa’s undivided time and attention.  J

If you’d like to make a simple diamond kite, here’s a terrific instructional video designed for beginners.

http://www.homefires.com/click?kite

Note: You’ll have to watch a short commercial before the video begins. Be sure to have a paper and pencil handy to write down the materials you’ll need to assemble your kite.

Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 16^th.  Families celebrate in many ways. Our family usually enjoyed a special meal (Papa loved barbecues), and then we spent time playing Papa’s favorite games: cards, dice, or dominoes. Papa was lucky and often won those games.

What I enjoyed most were the conversations we’d have as we played. Papa would tell stories about some of the experiences he’d had over the years and would always remark, “I’ve had a great life!”  His positive attitude was infectious and I always felt happy spending time in his company.

Do you have a special activity planned with your dad?  Do you have a fond memory of an activity you enjoyed with your father?  Does your family have a special Father’s Day tradition?  Please share it here.  If your post receives 3 or more “likes” you’ll be entered to win a $50.00 gift certificate to Amazon.com!  (Be sure to include your email address, so that we can contact you if you win the drawing!)

But don’t wait, this contest ends on Friday, May 31st. The winner will be chosen at random on Saturday, June 1st and will receive the prize in time to use it for Father’s Day.

I can’t wait to read your posts!

Contest Rules:

The contest begins at midnight (PST) on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 and concludes at 11:59 PM (PST) on Friday, May 31, 2013. The winner will be announced by email on Monday, June, 3 2013. Participants must be at least 18 years old to enter and have a valid email address. Participants may submit unlimited blog entries; however, each entry must receive 3 or more “likes” from blog readers in order to qualify for the drawing for the gift card. Winner will be drawn at random. Blog entries must be posted on PapasPearls.com and relate solely to the given topic. The $50.00 gift card to Amazon.com will be issued within 7 days of the contest deadline and sent electronically. Only online entries will be accepted.

I just learned that Oprah will be offering a Lifeclass presentation on Fatherless Sons.  It airs this Sunday, May 5, 2013 on the OWN network. I think the importance of fathers in children’s lives has been marginalized in our society.

My brother, sister, and I were fortunate to have Papa, a loving father who actively and mindfully parented us. I wish it were true for everyone.

I hope Oprah’s presentation raises awareness and begins a discussion that will benefit generations to come.

Will you be watching?

Here’s the link:

http://www.oprah.com/oprahs-lifeclass/First-Look-Oprahs-Lifeclass-on-Fatherless-Sons-Video_1