Growing up, I was always really thankful for my family. Most kids go through phases of loving theirs, and hating theirs, depending on the age, the day and the mood, but I always seemed to be on the same page; mine were different. I grew up in a home where my parents could be strict when needed, but they also knew when to be friends to me, too.

Having these "in between" parents led me in the right direction in life. They let me make my own decisions, but if I happened to make a wrong one, they knew when to put on the discipline hat. This gave me many things in life, most importantly though, confidence; the confidence to be exactly who I wanted to be in life (which turns out to be just like them).

So, here are all the things you appreciate when you grow up with part time parent, part time bestie:

1. You feel comfortable being yourself.

2. You are motivated to make good choices knowing you get to tell them about it.

3. You know you can get comforting, but real, advice at any time.

4. They will still help you do adult things — like make doctor appointments or help you with your car.

5. You can call one to vent when the other is pissed at you.

6. You can enjoy a drink with them without feeling awkward.

7. Not only do they make amazing meals for you, but they also teach you how to make these amazing meals.

8. They will drop everything, and anything, for you, to tend to you, celebrate with you, help you, and more.

9. You mature faster than your peers, because they've been talking to you like an adult since you hit double digits.

10. You don't have to hide anything. After all, secrets don't make friends.

11. Overall, you do not want to disappoint your bestie or your family, so you always act the best you that you can be.

So, this is an ode to all the parents like mine, and the sons and daughters that grew up like me; thanks for always being loving, accepting, not sheltering me, and not smothering me. One day, I'll be lucky to parent just like you.