Like any other promise you make to yourself, this is easier said than done. Often the practical side of life takes most of our time and attention. Earning a living, doing housework, shopping; all of the normal things we must do just to keep body and soul together are time consuming.

On my desk I have a picture of my two sons in my arms. They were two and four years old. Today they are both college graduates and successful businessmen. One is married with a beautiful daughter. The other is one of the nation’s most eligible bachelors – if I may brag.

The thing that strikes me is how quickly the time has passed. It seems like only yesterday I was putting the picture of us in younger days in its first frame. I did my best to spend quality time with my children. We read, we played, and we went places and did things together. Giving your time and your love to your children is the greatest gift you can give.

We didn’t have a lot of money in those days. My husband and I were both in graduate school. We found ways to do things that didn’t cost much money. Family walks, bike rides, free concerts, and sports were all a big part of spending time with our children.
No matter how little you have, children need to understand we can still help others. One holiday tradition for our family was to serve meals at a homeless shelter. My sons understood how important giving back is, and I hope they will pass this tradition on to their own children.

It takes a little planning, and when children get older with their own interests it might take some coaxing, but it is worth the effort. Find ways to involve your children in the mundane part of living. It helps the shopping, laundry etc. go faster, teaches them life skills, and gives you time together. Turn the work into a game or a way for children to earn their allowance. If you approach it as a fun family activity rather than a “chore” you might be surprised at the outcome.

While you may make a dozen or more promises for the New Year, the one resolution I hope you will make and keep is that you will spend as much time as you can with your children. You want to make sure that when you look at your family portrait years from now, your thoughts are warm and loving and filled with memories money can’t buy.