10 Sweet Stories of People Who Deserve a «Parent of the Year» Award

It’s heartwarming to hear about people who have amazing parents who support them with love and laughter, even as they grow older. Their stories can really touch your heart and make you appreciate your own loved ones even more.

  • Mom noticed Dad had red lipstick on his collar, but she didn’t confront him about it. A few days later, I discovered the foundation on his hand, which infuriated me. I confronted my dad, causing a big scene. He confessed that he was taking makeup classes, which only made my mom angrier.
    However, my dad proved he wasn’t cheating; he had been practicing makeup on himself. He demonstrated his skills, showing how well he could do it. He explained that with two daughters, one grown and one young, and another on the way, he wanted to be a good dad who could do anything for them.
  • At the age of 17, I suddenly realized that I didn’t fit the conventional standards of beauty among my peers. I faced ridicule for being red-haired, petite, and freckled. To hide my insecurities, I started covering my freckles with foundation, dyed my hair dark, and wore ill-fitting clothes. My dad noticed this change and gently probed to understand the reason behind it.
    Eventually, I broke down, cried, and poured out my heart to him. In response, he simply said, «So what if you’re petite, with short legs, and red-haired? These are just features! Look at how cute you are! Embrace who you are.» His words struck a chord within me, and I finally began to accept and love myself for who I am.
  • I stumbled upon a mysterious note tucked inside Dad’s wallet one day. Intrigued, I decided to investigate further. Days later, while rummaging through Dad’s briefcase, I discovered a hidden compartment containing another note and a small trinket. Confused and curious, I confronted Dad, demanding an explanation for these clandestine discoveries.
    To my surprise, Dad confessed that he had been leaving secret love notes and tokens of affection around the house for Mom as a romantic gesture. Initially taken aback, I couldn’t help but feel touched by Dad’s thoughtfulness and creativity. Witnessing this sweet gesture between my parents sparked a newfound appreciation for the depth of their love, showing me the power of small surprises in keeping the spark alive in a relationship.
  • Father returned from work, his expression serious as he approached my mom and me. He began, «Do you know who I just saw?!» We waited in anticipation as he continued, «I was walking in the dark, with only one lantern shining, when suddenly, a huge hare jumped out!» Mom and I exchanged surprised glances, only for Dad to pull out a large chocolate bar, saying, «So this bunny asked me to give you a chocolate bar!» Despite being 24 years old, I still fall for this joke about the bunny, as if I were still 6!
  • After finishing school, I accompanied my mother to enroll in university. I passed the exams and was accepted, with my mother’s help in securing a dorm room. Late in the evening, my mom left, leaving me with all the money except for enough for her ticket back home. Excited to start this new chapter of independence, I eagerly joined new friends for a night of celebration.
    What I didn’t know was that my mother missed the last bus and spent the entire night at the station, with only enough money for a ticket and a simple meal of tea and cookies. It wasn’t until 7 years later that I learned about her sacrifice, and I cried uncontrollably upon realizing her selflessness.
  • During a family camping trip, I mentioned how much I’d love to try fishing. Despite not being huge fans of fishing themselves, my parents set up all the gear and patiently showed me how to cast a line. Throughout the day, I struggled to catch anything, but they kept cheering me on with big smiles.
    Finally, I caught my first fish—a tiny trout—and their excitement was contagious. It wasn’t until much later that I realized they had given up their fun to make sure I had a chance to try fishing. Their selfless gesture showed me just how much they cared, leaving a lasting impression on my heart.
  • A week before my wedding, I discovered that my fiancé was cheating on me. Heartbroken, I turned to my mother for advice. While she sympathized with me, she urged me not to cancel the wedding. She reasoned that since everything was paid for, and I’d feel ashamed in front of relatives, it was best to go through with it for now, and later I could seek revenge and find peace. Reluctantly, I agreed.
    However, my wedding day turned out to be the worst day of my life. Just before the ceremony, my dad noticed my distress and pulled me aside for a chat. I broke down and confessed everything to him. Instead of scolding me, he hugged me tightly and said, «Your happiness is what matters most. We’ll handle this together.» With his support, I confronted my cheating fiancé, expressed my true feelings, and walked away with my dignity intact. As we left, my dad proudly said, «That’s my girl!» and added a few words of affection.
  • I remember my dad always getting really excited about very cheap, mundane foods like plain puffed rice cereal, bologna sandwiches, and unflavored steel-cut oats. He would get us all amped up about it, and we would want to eat it instead of the more expensive stuff we really wanted because of how much he talked it up. Now that I am older (and as a father myself), I don’t think he actually loved all these things that much. Instead, my parents just didn’t have the money to buy all that expensive food to feed three growing boys. © Rebelsoul3480 / Reddit
  • A friend’s 14-year-old daughter boldly requested money for a tattoo—right on her face. While her mom resorted to calming herbal drinks, the father and daughter engaged in a serious discussion about the matter. Eventually, they agreed to visit a tattoo artist over the weekend. «I’ll pay double,» declared the father, «but first, you’ll feel the needle without any ink.»
    During the appointment, the father discreetly instructed the artist to make the process as painful as possible. As the heart design began to take shape on her cheek, the daughter howled in agony—it hurt a lot. Despite the pain, they returned home that evening, all satisfied. It seems the father’s approach maintained a positive relationship with his daughter; after all, a stubborn refusal might have only led to more defiance.
  • I went to visit my parents, feeling tired and overwhelmed with problems from all sides—work, friends, and personal issues. My mom and dad immediately sensed my mood and set out to cheer me up. They made my favorite comfort foods: cutlets with mashed potatoes and cake with tea.
    Then, my father surprised me by borrowing a sled from a neighbor and taking me for a ride. For a couple of hours, all my worries melted away, and I felt like a child again—carefree and joyful. In those precious moments, I realized that no matter how old I am, I will always be my dad’s little daughter in his eyes.

We recommend reading a story of a woman who tried to warn her sister about her new boyfriend, but unfortunately, her sister didn’t take her advice. Now, she’s going through a tough divorce.

Preview photo credit jcomp / Freepik

I Was Invited to a Christmas Date On-Air, Only to Find Two Men Claiming to Be My Mystery Caller — Story of the Day

I never expected my Christmas to turn into a whirlwind of romance and betrayal. Invited to a magical on-air date, I thought I’d met the perfect man. But when two strangers claimed to be him and my choice led to heartbreak, I realized the real story had only just begun.

Christmas Eve at the radio station had its own rhythm—a predictable loop of cheerful jingles and festive classics. I sat in my usual spot, the studio chair that felt more like a throne on nights like this, doling out holiday cheer to an invisible audience.

The perks of being single?

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

No mulled wine spills to dodge or awkward family questions about my love life. Just me, the mic, and a playlist that screamed “holiday magic.”

“Coming up next, another yuletide classic to warm your night,” I said, my voice practiced and smooth. “And remember, Santa’s listening, so be good—or at least, be better than you were yesterday.”

The station phone lines had been busy all evening with cheerful callers sharing wishes and stories. But then his voice cut through the static—a rich, warm timbre, like caramel over snow.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“Hi,” he began, with the kind of confidence that could charm a Scrooge. “I’d like to dedicate a song.”

I leaned into the mic. “For someone special, I hope?”

“Yes,” he replied, a playful smile almost audible. “To the voice that’s made countless lonely Christmases a little less lonely. This one’s for you.”

I froze, blinking at the control board as a flush crept up my neck.

Is this a prank?

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“Well, that’s certainly… unique. I don’t think a song has ever been dedicated to me before,” I said, hoping my voice sounded professional and not as flustered as I felt.

The text line exploded. Messages popped up on my screen:

“Who is this guy?!”

“Are we witnessing a Hallmark movie in real time?”

Even my producer sent a teasing emoji.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

We kept talking, the conversation flowing like mulled cider—warm, unexpected, and oddly comforting. Before I realized it, I’d confessed my favorite Christmas tradition: visiting the small park near the mall, where an anonymous benefactor transformed the place into a symphony of twinkling lights and classical music.

“It sounds magical,” he said. “Maybe we should meet there.”

The words hit me like a snowball to the face. I hesitated.

Am I really about to agree to an impromptu date on-air?

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“Why not,” I heard myself say, my professionalism now teetering on thin ice.

The listeners erupted. Calls poured in, and the station’s social media lit up like Times Square.

My boss texted a single word: “Genius.”

By morning, the chaos hadn’t subsided. I nursed a cappuccino in a café corner, replaying the surreal night in my head. My colleague Julie strolled in like she owned the season, a wide grin plastered on her face.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“You’ve officially gone viral,” she said, sliding into the seat opposite me. “They want you to host a matchmaking segment now. You’re basically Cupid in headphones.”

“Wonderful,” I replied, trying to sound enthusiastic, though my nerves buzzed louder than the café’s espresso machine.

A date. A promotion. A spotlight brighter than any Christmas star.

Has Christmas finally decided to take me off its naughty list?

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

***

The park sparkled under the glow of fairy lights, each bulb casting a golden shimmer over the freshly fallen snow. The air hummed with soft, festive melodies, wrapping the scene in holiday magic. I clutched my coat tighter, my nerves jingling louder than the carols.

That night felt surreal—a blind date with the man whose voice had captured me live on air. But as I approached the towering Christmas tree, I stopped short.

There were TWO men.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For a moment, I froze, blinking as if the scene might change if I adjusted my angle. It didn’t. Both men turned to face me, their smiles as bright as the decorations.

“You must be Anna,” said the taller one, stepping forward with a confidence that bordered on cinematic.

His mischievous grin seemed permanently etched, and he carried himself like he knew how to own the spotlight.

“Steve,” he added, extending his hand like it was part of a performance. “Your Christmas caller.”

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

I managed a polite smile, my brain trying to connect the rich, teasing voice I remembered with the man in front of me. It seemed right. He certainly “felt” like the kind of person who would call a radio station to make a bold move.

Before I could respond, the second man stepped forward. He was shorter, with a warm but hesitant smile. His scarf was wrapped too tightly around his neck, and he adjusted it nervously as he spoke.

“Actually, that’s me,” he said, his voice soft but strangely familiar. “Richard. I called last night.”

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

I blinked again, my gaze bouncing between them. Their voices were eerily similar.

Maybe the faint crackle of the radio had blurred the distinction.

But their energy couldn’t have been more different.

“Look, I know this is a little unexpected,” Steve said with a wink, “but isn’t this the kind of thing Christmas movies are made of? Two guys, one magical night… all for you.”

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

Richard frowned. “I don’t think this is a competition.”

I stifled a nervous laugh. “This… is definitely not how I pictured tonight going,” I admitted, my breath fogging in the chilly air.

“Well,” Steve said, flashing that million-dollar grin, “we can stand here debating, or we can let the night decide. How about a shared date? Best man wins.”

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

Richard hesitated, glancing at me for approval. “If that’s okay with you.”

“Sure,” I said before I could overthink it. “Why not?”

Steve wasted no time, taking charge like he was the director of the evening. He orchestrated an entire scene at the hot cocoa stand, juggling marshmallows and making the vendor laugh until tears streamed down his face.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“Extra whipped cream,” he declared, sliding the cup toward me with a wink. “Because someone as sweet as you deserves nothing less.”

Richard handed me a second cup. “Just in case you prefer less sugar.”

As we moved to the snowball fight area, Steve dove in like an action hero, dramatically shielding me from flying snow.

“No snowball shall touch this woman!” he shouted, earning cheers from nearby kids.

Richard, meanwhile, knelt beside me, crafting a tiny snowman with a crooked smile.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“I thought he might need a bodyguard,” he joked softly, adjusting the snowman’s stick arms.

The carousel was where my heart started to waver. Steve pulled out his phone for a selfie—“for the fans,” he said, holding it high as his perfect smile filled the frame.

Meanwhile, Richard reached out to steady my carousel horse as it wobbled slightly.

By the time we returned to the meeting point, Steve leaned against the tree, his grin never faltering.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“So, what do you say? Christmas with me? I promise to keep it unforgettable.”

Richard, standing just out of the spotlight, stepped forward and gently took my hand. His touch was warm despite the cold. “Thank you. For giving me a chance.”

And then, without another word, he turned and disappeared into the glimmering lights. Richard stepping back felt like a graceful exit, sparing me the awkwardness of making a choice and possibly hurting someone.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

Besides, it all made sense. The voice from the radio, full of confidence and charm, couldn’t have belonged to anyone but Steve. His boldness, the way he carried himself, his easy humor—it matched perfectly with the man who had captured my attention on air.

“Smart choice,” he teased. “But let’s get out. This park’s too… romantic for my taste anyway. Honestly, who thought meeting here was a good idea?”

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

I blinked. “You mean… you suggested it! It’s my favorite spot, remember?”

“Did I? Huh. Funny. I’d almost forgotten.”

Why did he forget something like that? And why did it sound like he hadn’t even meant it? Maybe I chose the wrong man?

***

Determined to make an impression, I had spared no effort. The soft fabric of my new dress hugged me just right, my hair shone like it had a personal lighting crew, and the subtle shimmer of my makeup felt like magic dust.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

When I reached Steve’s grand townhouse, I almost believed it could be a Christmas to remember. Clutching my carefully wrapped gift, I adjusted the hem of my dress and pressed the doorbell.

Steve opened the door. “You look stunning. Come in.”

I stepped inside. Couples clustered in small groups, laughing over glasses of wine.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

And then I saw her.

Julie stood near the fireplace, her dress impeccable and her posture exuding smugness. She came to Steve and looped her arm through his in a way that spoke volumes before she even opened her mouth.

“There you are,” she purred, her voice like syrup laced with poison. She leaned in and kissed Steve on the cheek, her eyes never leaving mine. “Thanks for coming. Isn’t he just wonderful?”

I froze. Her words landed like tiny barbs, but her next ones hit harder.

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For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“You’ve got great taste in men. Too bad you’ll always come second.”

A wave of polite laughter rippled through the room, but I couldn’t reply. Gripping my coat, I turned and walked out into the cold. The bitter wind stung my cheeks, but it was nothing compared to the ache in my chest. The magic of the Christmas night had vanished.

***

Back home, I flopped onto the couch, burying my face in a pillow. Julie’s words played repeatedly in my mind, each cutting deeper than the last. I had trusted Steve’s charm, let myself believe in the fairytale, and ended up humiliated by my envious coworker.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

As I lay there, the soft hum of the radio filled the room, playing the same festive tunes I’d spun a hundred times before. My fingers reached out automatically to turn up the volume.

Then I heard it—a voice I recognized instantly.

“It’s Richard,” he said, his words measured but full of heart. “I don’t know if you’re listening, but I’m waiting in your favorite spot. If you’re willing to take one more chance, I’ll be here.”

Richard? Waiting?

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For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

I bolted upright, my pulse quickening. I grabbed my coat and headed out into the night without a second thought.

When I arrived at the park, the sight stopped me in my tracks. The Christmas tree was brighter than ever, draped in shimmering lights that seemed to reach for the stars. The soft strains of classical music floated through the air, wrapping the moment in something that felt like magic.

And there he was. Richard. He stood under the glowing tree, his hands in his pockets, his expression nervous but determined.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“I know I’m not perfect in real life. My voice on-air did,” he said, his voice trembling as his eyes met mine. “But I want to try to be for you.”

The world around us blurred, the music fading into the background. There were no grand gestures, no flashy charm. Just Richard, honest and vulnerable. For the first time in years, the emptiness of Christmas was replaced with something else entirely.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

Tell us what you think about this story, and share it with your friends. It might inspire them and brighten their day.

If you enjoyed this story, read this one: I came to the island searching for peace, a fresh start to heal from my past. Instead, I found HIM—charming, attentive, and everything I didn’t know I needed. But just when I started to believe in new beginnings, a single moment shattered it all.

This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life

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