2014 is just about over. Can you believe it? It went too quickly, and my kids grew too much. And I know you feel the same way.

With the New Year just around the corner, you and I have a lot to do. Planning, organizing, goal setting. And with the busy week we just had with the Christmas holiday, we are crunched for time.

But don’t forget that there is another holiday this week. It may not be as big and hectic as Christmas, but your kids are looking forward to the new year just as much as you and I are. In fact, they may be more excited about it simply because they get to stay up and watch the ball drop in New York and celebrate with family and friends.

This is an opportunity, dads. You have the chance to spend some quality time with your kids as you wait for the clock to countdown the final minutes of 2014. You have the chance to create some memories that will last a lifetime.

Let me encourage you to take the evening and celebrate with your family. Play a game. Watch a movie. Ask your kids what their favorite part of 2014 was, and share your favorite moments. Enjoy the time spent with your children.

Or, if your kids are older, maybe you can go with them to their parties. I am helping out with our youth group celebration this year. My older kids are there, and I want to spend that time with them. That does mean that my family will be split this year. My wife will be at home with the younger kids, and the older ones will be with me. And even though we won’t be able to celebrate together, I know the smaller children will need to be asleep long before midnight anyway, or the next day could be a very long day indeed.

Whatever your scenario may look like, take advantage of the opportunity to celebrate with your children. Rejoice with them at the opportunities a new year brings, and have a great time.

Happy New Year, and…

Be deliberate, Dad!

What are your plans for celebrating the New Year with your family this year? You can leave your thoughts in the comments by clicking here.