Photography by Arina Lanis
Styled by Kathy Moran
For some families, honoring dad on Father's Day may include a special dinner, a heartfelt greeting card, or just a relaxing day with the family. For Pam and her family, this Father's Day will initiate a new tradition that will make sure her husband Tom starts his day off right — a delicious and hearty breakfast in bed!
The concept of a day for children to honor their fathers got its start in Spokane, Washington, about 100 years ago when a woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd came up with the idea while attending a Mother's Day sermon. Having been raised by her father, Sonora wanted to commemorate a day for fathers as well. She chose the month of June because it was the month of her father's birthday. On June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington, the first Father's Day celebration took place. It wasn't until 1972 that the holiday became official when President Richard Nixon established a national observance of Father's Day to be held on the third Sunday of June.
For Pam and her family, it's a day to point the spotlight on a man who rarely asks for one. And this year is extra special because their bedroom, which has been undergoing a lengthy re-design, is actually complete... well, at least the bed is! A fan of traditional furniture but also a lover of interesting and fun patterns, Pam has decorated their Town and Country home in a fusion of different styles. Some items are very traditional and have been passed down for generations, while others are eclectic pieces she has bought or commissioned. However, the ultimate goal is to create something the entire family can feel comfortable using and living in. The bedroom was no exception. Pam's mother's headboard is the focal point. It was re-upholstered and re-stained to give it a look that complemented the new fabric choices. It's a treasured piece that commands center stage.
This year, Dad will be enjoying the newly-completed bed with a tray filled with a delicious and hearty home-made breakfast. Buttermilk pancakes topped with decadently rich poached pears, fresh fruit, and sweet honey are the main event. The reliable duo of delicious hash browns topped with pepper and green onions and a plate of apple smoked bacon and sausage links play a supporting role. The key to perfect hash browns is to make sure they are dry when they hit the hot oiled pan. Patting them down with a towel does the trick!
Gifts usually consist of greeting cards and letters written by the kids, but this year, a special treat has been tucked under his silverware: Cardinals game tickets to enjoy with his son and daughter. But in the end, a relaxing morning filled with great food and a wonderful family is the best gift of all!
