To think parenting is mostly thankless

[crumpetsandacuppa]

Have only child who I love to death. Generally well behaved but at times tiring and demanding and whingy! Very happy with the one but also considering another but can't help but feel parenting is a largely thankless 'task'. AIBU to feel this way and to let this dictate whether I have a second child or not?

I'm pretty sure if had been the first born I'd have been an only child. My older sister, while being the perfect angel as a child/teenager, has decided she's far too important and busy to be bothered with our parents whilst I, the black sheep, am the child that actually still spends time with them. (and before anyone asks any questions about our childhood, she was definitely the favoured child back then. But I was a total pain in the arse!)

YABU. But parenting is hard so I get your desire or need for acknowledgement.

I think i know where you are coming from op although imo opinion 10 is a lovely age. Dd is old enoigh to not need 100percent supervision but young enough to want hugs with mummy. Lovely.
Not easy with toddlers though...it is a drudge..

are you a stay at home parent? perhaps doing something for yourself other than being a 24/7 parent will help a bit.
Please don't undermine the value of all the effort you put in, as a parent. It will all be worth it but you need patience. Toddlers and little children are hard work. Take time for yourself. do things that bring you joy other than parenting.