As we look back on life, we finally understand and appreciate all of the methods to their madness.

It's the little things that made the biggest impact on our lives.

1. Whether we are 2 or 52, we can bet that our parents will put us in check if needed.

2. They try to understand us. Even when we are completely irrational.

3. They are our biggest cheerleaders.

4. They always have the best food and will even give us the last bite. Now that's love.

5. They tell us what we need to hear, like it or not.

6. Scared, juicy gossip, or just need to vent? No worries, Mom and Dad are always only a phone call away.

7. Who needs the FBI when parents have mastered the art of interrogation? Though it can be annoying, it's good to know that they care.

8. Since day one, they've been our shoulders to cry on.

9. No one has our backs or best interest at heart quite like our parents.

10. Our parents encourage us to do and be better.

11. They help to mold us into respectful, upstanding citizens...or at least tried.

12. As we get older, our parents become our closest friends.

13. A parent's love is unconditional.