What are some ways you can make up the time lost to a loved one when you are unable to attend?

For clarification : New Year’s will be here in a few hours. My girlfriend would like me to spend it with her but the past 2 New Year’s I have not spent with my family (both of which were my fault). Ergo, I feel I owe them this New Year’s. They deserve it.
Now, do I simply speak with my girlfriend and explain to her I cannot spend it with her and the reasoning why? And if so, what do you propose I can do to make it up to her?