20 Moments I’m Grateful for Being a Parent

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As anyone who has ever been drenched in sticky fingers and the occasional unexpected mess will tell you, parenting can feel like an underappreciated role. I often joke that I have to bribe my kids just to hear a simple “thank you” after serving dinner or picking up their toys. Yet, amidst the chaos and the endless to-do lists, especially on Thanksgiving, it’s essential to take a moment to reflect on the joy of being a parent. I wouldn’t trade their chocolatey kisses and those gooey, snot-filled hugs for anything.

In the spirit of gratitude, here are 20 moments when I’ve felt truly thankful to be a parent:

  1. Every day presents a chance for a little magic. Fog transforms into dragon breath, bushes become battlegrounds against ogres, sticks turn into swords, and frost sparkles like fairy dust.
  2. Those cozy Sunday morning snuggles! We play the “Who Can Be the Quietest, Longest?” game, which usually lasts a mere five minutes before the playful wrestling begins, but those quiet moments are pure bliss.
  3. I get to revisit all the classic movies that shaped my own childhood. Right now, we’re indulging in films like Gremlins, The Princess Bride, The Goonies, and The NeverEnding Story—it’s totally awesome!
  4. It’s a privilege to guide my kids in becoming kind and decent individuals, which is something the world could use more of.
  5. We like to pretend Donut Sunday is all about the kids, but let’s be real—who are we kidding?
  6. Christmas morning with little ones is a whirlwind of excitement. Yes, the aftermath can be a bit overwhelming, but the joy and wonder are absolutely worth it.
  7. Priority seating on planes? Yes, please! Trust me, we definitely need it.
  8. I’ve made instant friends with fellow parents while watching our kids play soccer—no matter how chaotic the game might be!
  9. I get to be part of their “firsts”—first steps, lost teeth, bike rides, school days, crushes, and even face-plants into poles!
  10. Bodily functions are hilarious again! Sure, I act all prim and proper around guests, but at home, we can’t stop giggling over farts and burps.
  11. I truly understand how much my own parents cared for me. It makes me feel a tad guilty about my teenage years.
  12. Watching my kids discover their sense of humor is priceless. Like when my four-year-old enthusiastically exclaimed, “Heck yes!” after dessert, and we all burst into laughter.
  13. Halloween candy? My kids are blissfully unaware of the wonders of peanut butter cups.
  14. I get to embrace the joy of childhood activities—riding carousels, exploring science museums, feeding giraffes at the zoo, and enjoying days at amusement parks.
  15. For a brief moment, I have rock-star status in my children’s eyes—they think I invented everything cool in the universe, and I’m happy to let them believe that.
  16. Let’s not forget about tax season—it comes with its own perks!
  17. We always order extra egg rolls, knowing the kids won’t touch them. Oh well, guess we’ll just have to enjoy them ourselves!
  18. I see the world through fresh eyes: cows are mesmerizing, autumn leaves are astonishing, and even a simple rock can be viewed as lucky.
  19. I have a partner in wrestling—full-on tickle fights and playful chaos that results in uncontrollable laughter, sometimes even leading to little accidents!
  20. Parents get to share their passions. Whether it’s sports, music, or even quirky hobbies, kids tend to find it cool—at least until they hit those teenage years!

So, on this day of gratitude, I’m reminded that being a parent is a remarkable journey. I’m going to go give my kids a big hug and maybe convince them to take a nap so I can enjoy a moment of peace.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

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In summary, being a parent comes with endless joys, surprises, and a sprinkle of chaos, making every moment memorable and worth cherishing.