Fathers Day Snack Mix

If you're looking for a gift as unique as the man himself, make Dad a Father's Day snack mix! To make snack mix, you have two options: use food that somehow symbolizes the special father in your life or use his favorite foods. Mixes that combine the two elements are probably the best.

There are no hard and fast rules as to how much of each ingredient to use. Simply use your own judgment and include more of Dad's favorites. You'll want to have at least 2 cups of total snack mix.

If dad is a real sweetheart (or if he has a sweet tooth), use candy prominently in his Fathers Day snack mix. M & M's are a popular choice, but other candies could work as well:

• Chocolate covered almonds
• Miniature candy bars
• Hershey's Hugs or Kisses (to symbolize the hugs and kisses Dad gives you)
• Chocolate covered cherries

Is Dad a little zany? Assorted nuts speak to his nutty side! Pick one or more of the following:

• Peanuts
• Hazelnuts
• Macadamia nuts
• Almonds
• Pistachios
• Walnuts

Dad has devoted his life to raisin' you, so throw in some raisins.

Is Dad a teddy bear of a guy? Honor his cuddly side with some edible teddy bears. Gummy Bears and Teddy Grahams are both great choices, so select the one that Dad likes best.

Does Dad have a colorful personality? Then inject some color in his snack mix. Fruit Loops are one way to do that. Star Bursts and Skittles are other good choices.

If Dad is a funny guy, include crackers for the way he cracks you up. Use Goldfish, Ritz, Cheezits, Graham Crackers, or Dad's favorite.

Add some Cheerios for the way Dad's fun-loving personality always cheers you up.

Add a Father's Day gift to your snack mix. A compass is a special and appropriate gift, since Dad is trying to help you find direction in life. Any small gift that Dad would love would work well for this.

Your mix is made. How are you going to give it to Dad? Rather than pour it in a bowl, present it in a way that is just as special as the mix. Decorate a small box, miniature treasure chest, cannister, or paper bag. Attach ribbons or bows, draw pictures on it, or glue on other design elements.

You could also personalize a large coffee cup and use that to hold your snack mix. It's two gifts in one!

No gift is complete without a card, so make a special one for Dad. Card stock, construction paper, or index cards are all suitable for this. Have your kids write a special note or draw a picture on one side; on the other, write something along these lines:
Teddy Grahams for your big bear hugs
Crackers for the way you crack me up
M & M's because you're such a sweetie
A compass for the way you guide me
And all because I love you!