few weeks before my wedding, my dad and I decided to have one last father-son “male-bonding” excursion before the big event.  We didn’t go camping or fishing or do any of that manly outdoor stuff. We did something every red-blooded American wants to do once in his or her lifetime – go to L.A. and try to get on “The Price Is Right!”

Growing up, my dad and I would sometimes take weekend trips to sporting events. Since he stayed busy with his moving and storage business, I learned to cherish these outings.  But with my wedding just weeks ahead, I wanted to do something big with my dad one last time. Some guys throw bachelor parties before their weddings. I flew across the country to get on a game show.

The trip got off to a rough start. Because of flight delays, we arrived at our hotel three hours late and just after midnight. We needed to get to the studio by 4:00 a.m. to ensure our place in line, which didn’t leave much time for my beauty sleep. And if that wasn’t enough, I was battling the flu. But it was well worth the troubles because my dad was picked as a contestant, won his bidding game, won his prize game and even won the “Showcase!”

Back home, my dad became an instant celebrity. Five years have passed, and wherever he goes, he still hears “Come on down!” (He even has that on his license plate!) But my dad received more than fame from this trip. He was able to spend quality time with his son before his son’s wedding, and it was a trip I will always treasure.

Proverbs 23:24 describes an ideal father-son relationship. I now have a son of my own, and I hope to continue this tradition of “male-bonding” to build that relationship. Now if only we can figure out a way to get on “Deal or No Deal”….

Editor's note: Our "Just For Men" columns reflect the perspectives and experiences of the writer.