1. You get paid to play, what's better than that??

Sorry, I can't--I have to go to work. AKA, I have a play date all afternoon.

2. You have an excuse to play with the games and toys you loved as a kid.

Is it socially acceptable for me to play with Playdo or to play Hungry Hungry Hippo? Yes, because I'm a babysitter.

3. You also have an excuse to go fun places and see kids' movies.

Talking to other babysitters like, "OMG I love Wreck-It Ralph too! But I think Zootopia was my favorite.." (Okay, to be honest, I'd probably watch these movies anyways, but it's nice to have an excuse to watch them). Oh and the Magic House? That huge park down the road?? Been there, done that.

4. Kids will teach you to relax and just have fun.

One of the best things to do is to hang out with my kiddos after a stressful day. They're always ready to have fun. I love when I hear them say "This is the BEST DAY EVER." (Not sure how valid this is, because I've heard it a dozen times. But that's okay.)

5. You get good practice when it comes to detecting lies.

"But my mom said we could...."

"Oh she did? Let me call her to check."

"NO NO NO. Don't check!" ......that's what I thought.

6. Chasing them around can be your workout for the day.

Didn't get up early enough for the gym this morning? That's okay, just suggest a game of tag.

7. Sweet revenge...

Remember when your parents told you that when you swallowed a watermelon seed, you'd grow a watermelon in your belly? And how if you ate enough carrots you could see in the dark? I used to be bitter that they lied about that...Well, I understand why they fibbed...It's pretty fun.

8. You get to be there for the milestones.

I was there before the little one was potty trained. And before the older one could ride his bike with no training wheels. I've loved watching them grow up. And it's crazy how fast they've grown up.

9. You form an awesome bond with the kids.

And it's going to be a sad day when I have to get a "real" job. Babysitting is by far the best job out there.