The other day I was at work, and while making small talk with one of the customers the subject of what my parents do for a living came up. I told her that my dad was a firefighter. The look of gratitude came across her face, and she mentioned how brave and respectful my dad is for taking on that dangerous of a profession and she asked if I could thank him for his service. I have always been proud of my dad in many ways but his job is the first thing that comes to mind always. So here is a list of what it's like growing up when one of your parents is a firefighter:

1. You know fire safety like the back of your hand.

You probably knew how to use a fire extinguisher or change the batteries of a fire alarm before you could walk.

2. But you also have a weird fascination with it... in a totally non-psychopathic way.

But, at least you know how to have fun with it the safe way am I right?

3. You probably received fire fighting toys for your birthday.

And let's be honest, they were more fun to play with than Barbies were...

4. Or you were dressed up as one for Halloween.

#noregrets

5. Parades are still one of your favorite things on the planet.

The beginning of the parade is always the best part. Obviously.

6. Your parent came to your school at some point in your life to teach fire safety to your class.

And it was your favorite day of the school year.

7. Any police, doctor, or firefighter show is hard for you to take seriously...

Emergency!, Grey's Anatomy, Chicago Fire/PD...

8. But you still watch them with your full attention.

Because who wouldn't?

9. You can probably identify which emergency response vehicle is approaching by the sirens almost 75 percent of the time.

It's a gift.

10. You're flexible when plans change.

Because you never knew with that call would come in.

11. Firetrucks are the most majestic things in the world.

And growing up around them was incredible.

12. You're lucky to have two incredible chefs in the house.

They especially know their way around a grill.

13. You're proud of everything that they do.

In all seriousness.

If you have a parent that was ever a firefighter, you will definitely relate to these 13 things, because being the child of a firefighter changes and shapes how you see the world around you. I wouldn't have it any other way.