DOING WHAT DAD WANTS TAKES A NEW TWIST!

Both our children are far away this year, so Father’s Day won’t be about the whole family “Doing What Dad Wants.” But it most definitely won’t be a joyless day. Instead, for my husband Bob and me it will be a celebration of “Dad’s Amazing New Project” – the BlueStone Gallery in Milford, PA (www.bluestonegallerymilford.com) which both our kids love.

We will be spending the afternoon where “Dad is Doing What He Wants.” In the past year, my husband has envisioned, brought to life, and become wildly energized by a ‘Very Second Adulthood Adventure”! He co-founded the BlueStone Gallery, with Dave Greenbaum, a local potter, to provide a space for the best artwork of artists living and working in the Pike County/Hudson Valley (NY) region.

Bob Levine and Dave Greenbaum

Their idea was to “exhibit not just traditional art, but also ‘functional’ art as well – art as broad ranging in its intention and execution as the artists’ imagination can reach.” The art is a stunning collection of fine (paintings, sculpture) and functional (carved wooden bowls, pottery, iron work, and kimonos made out of vintage scarves) art.

Gloria Steinem visiting Red Square wearing a Joe & Louise Fouts hat from BlueStone Gallery

It has also become a community meeting place. Friends stop by to meet and chat, tourists settle into the leather sofa to contemplate the art and relax, and the community comes together for events at the gallery. At a recent event, I talked about Fifty is the New Fify (wearing one of the fabulous kimonos) to raise money for the local battered women’s shelter, Safe Haven of Pike County.

Suzanne at the Safe Haven of Pike County Benefit, May 2009

While our day jobs still keep us in New York City, the Gallery has become a delightful add-on and “Encore” addition to our lives (www.encore.org) to our lives, proving that Second Adulthood is most definitely not only about shedding baggage but also about extending experience, taking risks and giving back to ones community.

How are you celebrating Father’s Day?

If you are in Milford, PA stop by at the BlueStone Gallery (104 East Ann Street, 570.296.9999).

Or you can share your Father’s Day experience, adventure and memories with us here.