15 great things about being a parent

Being a parent is 24/7, you don't get to punch out at the end of the day or take extended vacations. You have to clean up after someone else all the time, and "me-time" becomes practically non-existent. Every once in a while, however, you share a moment with your kids that proves that, although parenting is the toughest job in the world, it's also the most rewarding.

There's nothing better than hearing those three magical words, especially when they happen out-of-the-blue. And it's also an expression that you will never get tired of hearing.

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As a parent, you try to teach your kids how to be "good." That why when they do something completely selfless by their own accord, you are overcome with pride and want to share it with the world.

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Taking your child to their first movie is like introducing them to a new whole new world (no pun intended). Between hitting up the concession stand, enjoying the previews and seeing the actual flick, it's an afternoon well-spent as a family.

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When a child brings you something they've created just for you, you get a window into their creative spirit. Sometimes their art is so heartwarming it brings you to tears, and other times you're in tears because it's just so darn funny (not to mention adorable).

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This writer thinks family dance parties are one of the best parts of being a parent... especially the impromptu kind. Not only do you get to listen to your favourite songs, but you can develop some of your top-secret family moves. 

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Teaching a child to swim is by no means an easy task. When they're finally able to let go of you and venture through the water on their own, you're proud: You did that together.

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A magical moment is produced when you see your child with your mother. There's three generations who've all needed each other at one point or another. It's a reflection of past, present and future that is uncanny and rewarding all at the same time.

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When you think sick days, you generally think thermometers, fevers, tissues and a kind of whiny kid. This mom sees the opportunity for some free snuggles and some precious mommy/child time. 

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Cooking can definitely be a challenge, especially if you have a picky eater in your midst. But that one day that you've made something special, just for them, and they not only eat it, but love it and are impressed... that makes it all worth it.

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No matter what your child might be doing — dancing, singing, playing an instrument or even acting as "boy sitting on a chair #2" in the school play — their first performance in front of anyone (even family) is a heartwarming moment you'll never forget. Don't forget to bring your tissues!

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Siblings bicker and fight practically non-stop: It's in their nature. But sometimes the madness ends, and you realize that they truly do care for each other more than they'll ever admit. 

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As a parent you want your child to make new friends. When you leave them at camp or drop them off at school for the first day, you wonder whether there will be another child out there with whom they will connect. Of course, they eventually do make a friend, and that first time you see them hold hands with their new buddy, you just want to hug them both.

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While some might see an only child as a lonely existence, one mom documents the beauty of giving her love to one incredible little boy.

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There is never any doubt that you and your child share a special bond unlike any other. But then there's that time they give you a kiss for the first time... and every time after that. One mom reminds herself that she needs to cherish these smooches while she can.

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The sleepless nights with a baby can be tedious, but one mom learns to appreciate the rare one-on-one time with her little one.

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