[opbuzz]

Hold your kids as long as you can.

Kiss them goodnight as long as they will let you.

Teach them to be responsible, and make them do chores.

As a sixteen year single parent, I loved my kids and now love my grandkids. I just wish I could see my grandkids more.

[TexasCowboy]

I would offer one more piece of advice:

Get your priorities straight!

It's easy to cop out in later years and say that you had to be gone a lot to provide for them.
That won't stop the ache in your heart because you weren't there for birthdays, holidays and special events in their lives.
You only get one chance to be a parent, and each day that passes is precious.
Use it, be thankful for it, and enjoy it to the fullest.