Since my time is limited with my son on the weekdays to a few hours between getting home and bedtime, I have tried to establish some Daddy time with him. Just the two of us. This not only gives Mom a much needed break, but allows us to build our own relationship between father and son. No mommies allowed (and he will tell her that!).

It has become such a common routine, that my son is disappointed when he doesn't get time with Daddy because the night got too busy. In those cases, we at least read a quick book together with a promise to spend more time the next night.

Though my days (and nights) can get quite busy at times, you can't forget to make time for your kids. You have to make the time!

Saturday nights at our house are "Daddy's t-shirt night", where all three kids go running to my closet to pick out a t-shirt that they'll wear to bed. It's a fun tradition that they'll always remember, and one I hope they'll carry into their own families some day.

Another thing I try to do is pray with each kid before bed. We switch off each night - I'll pray one night, they'll pray the next. It's a great way to connect, and also gives you a chance to ask what they'd like prayer for, and to find out what happened in their lives that day. Admittedly, I haven't been as diligent with this one lately, but plan to kick it back in gear.

I'm not referring to the cost of being a great dad, but rather "what's the cost _to my family_ when I strive to be great in my career or hobby?"

There are a few things at which I'm pretty sure I could be great. Not good, not very good, but really outstanding... if I really applied myself, really focused, and really worked hard. But I fear deep inside that the greatness would come with an expensive price tag. It might cost me my family. It might cost me my marriage. It definitely would not come free.

There's nothing wrong with wanting to excel, and many of us are in the role of sole or primary financial provider where our performance at work really mattes (raises aren't given to slackers). It's important that we do well in this role - our families depend on it. But where's the line between doing well and becoming obsessed with success?

As a father of three (ages 5, 7, and 9) the importance of my role as dad in the lives of my children is finally starting to hit me right between the eyes.

They flat out need me. Desperately. They need me to engage in their lives, to connect with each of them in ways that are tailored to their own specific personalities.

If you've read The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman, you'll know what I mean when I say that my kids hear that I love them in three distinctly different ways.

My oldest daughter craves quality time, whereas her younger sister needs to hear words of affirmation. My son needs physical touch, and they all want everything the other has or it's simply "not fair".

I hope you'll join with me while I strive to engage as a dad, in a way that will leave a lasting impact on my family. I look forward to reading your comments and posts.