My kids have the same prollem with me that you have with your dad.  They never know what to buy me, so they inevitably get me useless stuff I don't need or want.  This year I got a George Foreman grill (the Cuisinart version called the Griddler).  Since one is obligated to put on a happy face and wear the hideous tie for a day, or actually spray that GLH Formula Number 9 Hair System on one's bald spot, I tried it.  And, hey, not bad.  Pretty good actually, especially the Panini thing (where you squish your sammich and grill it on two sides).  Like this ... (rollover).  Cool. I'll keep you posted.