As anyone who has ever been a human tissue can tell you, parenting can sometimes feel like an unappreciated role. There are times when I jokingly have to remind my kids to say “thank you” as I prepare meals and tidy up after them. However, amidst the chaos, especially during Thanksgiving, I find myself filled with gratitude for the privilege of being a parent. I wouldn’t trade their chocolatey kisses and sticky hugs for anything.
In honor of this Thanksgiving season, here are 20 moments that remind me why I cherish being a parent:
- Everyday life transforms into a realm of wonder. Fog becomes dragon’s breath, bushes turn into enchanted forests, and even sticks can become swords in epic battles.
- Sunday mornings are reserved for snuggles and our favorite game: “Who Can Stay Quiet the Longest?” It rarely lasts beyond five minutes, but those moments of calm are precious.
- I get to revisit beloved childhood films with my kids. We’re currently enjoying classics like The Goonies, The Princess Bride, and The NeverEnding Story. It’s totally awesome!
- I have the honor of guiding them to become kind and thoughtful individuals. The world needs more of those!
- We joyfully pretend Donut Sunday is a special treat for the kids, even if it’s really for us.
- Christmas mornings become magical with kids around. The aftermath may look like a tornado hit, but the excitement is palpable.
- Priority seating on planes is a lifesaver—we definitely need it!
- I bond with other parents while watching our kids fumble through soccer games, sharing the laughs and struggles.
- I get to witness monumental moments in their lives: first steps, first lost teeth, first days of school, and even first crushes.
- Bodily functions are hilariously amusing again. When it’s just me and my partner, we can laugh at farts and burps without judgment.
- I truly appreciate how much my parents loved me, which makes me reflect on my teenage years with a touch of guilt.
- I cherish the moments when my kids discover their own sense of humor, like when my 4-year-old exclaimed “Heck yeah!” in delight over dessert.
- Halloween candy is a treasure trove, and my kids have yet to discover the joy of peanut butter cups.
- I get to indulge in childlike activities like riding carousels, visiting science museums, and feeding giraffes—things we all secretly love.
- For a fleeting moment, I hold rock-star status in my child’s eyes, as they believe I’ve invented every great thing in the world.
- Tax time brings unexpected bonuses!
- We always order extra egg rolls, knowing the kids will likely ignore them. Guess that leaves more for us!
- I see the world anew through my children’s eyes: cows become fascinating, the changing leaves are mesmerizing, and even a found rock becomes lucky.
- I have a built-in wrestling buddy, and nothing beats the laughter from our playful antics—even if we end up in a giggling heap.
- I get to share my passions, whether that’s sports or silly hobbies, and my kids think it’s cool—at least until they reach the teenage years.
On this day of gratitude, I am especially thankful to be a parent. It’s an incredible journey worth every moment. Now, I’m off to hug my kids and maybe bribe them into napping so I can enjoy a little peace.
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Summary
Parenting is a journey filled with moments of joy, laughter, and precious memories. From witnessing firsts to sharing magical experiences, every day offers new reasons to be grateful. It’s an adventure that shapes both parents and children alike.