TGIF!

Good day to you:

It's Friday! Finally! Another long work week has come to an end. And now, here come two days of paradise where we can kick back, relax and enjoy life.

Today's blog post is just a simple jolt in the arm to encourage you as dads. Won't you make the most of your time with the kids this weekend. Many of us think that it's the big things like taking the kids to Disney World that'll make a difference to them. But it's really the simple, day to day memorable events that have the greatest, lasting impact on them.

Here are some things you might consider doing with them this weekend:

• go for a walk in the park
• visit your local library (a lost art for many families)
• go fishing in a local lake
• play catch in the back yard
• watch the baseball playoffs or football and explain the life virtues of sports with them

And there's so much more to it.

For many of you, your kids won't be with you this weekend. How about just making them feel special by calling them daily. And instead of doing all the talking, do a lot of listening. You know we were given two ears and one mouth - perhaps we should use them in the same proportion.

Whatever you do, make this weekend special. A little love and care every day goes a long way.  Enjoy the weekend. And remember, be "upbeat" when it comes to your kids.

The Upbeat Dad