History Heartwarming / MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicSeason5

** The fact that, in the opening, Rarity is genuinely happy that Rainbow Dash is getting the chance to live her dream, while Rainbow is eager for her to come to dinner that night. Again, these are the two who probably have the least in common, but this episode shows how much they value each other's company.

* Spike talking about how he'll be discussing sports with Big Macintosh while the girls are away on their adventure. While it's played for laughs [[note]]Fluttershy was reluctant to go on the most recent adventure and wanted to stay behind with Spike, then immediately changed her mind when she heard Spike talk about "hoofball"[[/note]], it's still nice to see that Spike has made friends ''other'' than the Mane Six (doubly so as, unlike the Mane Six, he hasn't been seen hanging out with other ponies). Slightly mitigated by the revelation that [[spoiler:Spike was also planning to swindle a card from Mac, though]].

** She's also the one pony who laughs at Discord's attempt at stand-up comedy, as well as Pinkie.
** If you really think about it, if Celestia was willing to invite Discord to the most important event in Equestria, it further demonstrates that she truly does forgive Discord for betraying Equestria in the Season Four Finale.

** The fact that Rainbow Dash could cry at ''all'' like part in it. However, as Rarity nearly died as a consequence, Rainbow was able to pull off the Sonic Rainboom to save her life. Here in this episode, Rarity returns the favor by saving Rainbow Dash from losing her reputation with the Wonderbolts.
** Also, out of all of Rainbow Dash's friends, you'd think that Rarity would care the least about Dash's dream of becoming a Wonderbolt coming true, due to them having such a difference in interests. But when Rarity shushes Soarin' and tells him to let Dash have her little happy dance at hearing the news that she could fly with her heroes, you could see from the smile on her face that she ''was'' happy for her friend.
* Rarity booping Rainbow Dash when applying sunscreen on her.

[[AC: Made In Manehattan]]
* Everypony in that part of Manehattan becoming a little closer.
* Rarity buying Applejack a new cowpony hat after her old one got trashed.

[[AC: Brotherhooves Social]]
* Rainbow acting as a CoolBigSis and racing with Scootaloo despite not being her actual sis.
* Sweetie Belle being happy to be at the Social so she can cheer Dash and Scootaloo on even though she's disappointed she can't participate herself.
* Big Mac is willing to be DisguisedInDrag so his little sister can have a good time.
* The fact that the judges didn't actually care that much about Big Mac being a guy and that they're willing to stretch the definition of "sister" for the fillies wanting to participate.
** And the fact that while everypony on screen stares a bit, nobody treats him poorly for it. Or even if they find it silly, nobody says anything to him that's genuinely mean. Sweetie Belle even says that while she does find it a bit weird, it's still sweet that he did this just to help out his little sis.
* The ending, when Big Macintosh confesses he was so desperate to help Apple Bloom win a ribbon because Applejack's heroics make him feel insignificant. Apple Bloom gives him a big hug and assures him that he ''does'' matter.
** It's more than that. Big Mac isn't doing it because he is jealous of Applejack and her fame. He is doing it because he wants his little sister to be happy and see him as her hero AS WELL. Not replace Applejack... just stand beside her. Rather than be a jerk who begrudges Applejack Big Mac accepts what she does and just wants to be seen in a similar light when it comes to his little sister. And Apple Bloom realizes her mistake and decides to spend some time with him rather than race off to see Applejack.
** The whole thing ends with both of them choosing to watch the sunset together rather than go greet Applejack, and Apple Bloom asks Big Mac to do the Orchard Blossom voice again before the credits roll. *sniff*
* At the start Applejack clearly knows something is up and approaches him about it. She doesn't get angry when she gets one word answers and is persistent but gentle with him. She's just a good a sister to him as Apple Bloom and if she hadn't been called away... well the episode would have been shorter.
* The last time Big Mac spoke this much was also to Apple Bloom in "Ponyville Confidential", [[TheReasonYouSuckSpeech which didn't end very well]]. Not only is any implication Big Mac is still angry with his baby sister thoroughly abolished with this episode, but he similarly goes into a rare advanced conversation, not once, but several times. It seems Apple Bloom is one of very few ponies that can bring him out of his quiet shell.

[[AC: Crusaders Of The Lost Mark]]
* The CMC helping Pip win the election, and even though they don't get their cutie marks from that, they don't seem to mind much.
** And Sweetie Belle magically lifts him up so he can join their hoof bump.
* The CMC response to watching their worst enemy, lose an election and learning her friend didn't vote for her, then run off? Go after her and make sure she's okay.
* The Cutie Mark Crusaders, upon realizing that Diamond Tiara has no friends besides Silver Spoon (at least until she snapped at her during the election campaign, at which point it became no friends ''at all''), decided to try and keep her from feeling lonely instead of gloating. Because of this, Diamond Tiara starts to warm up to them and undergoes some serious CharacterDevelopment.
* The very fact that the cutie marks of the Cutie Mark Crusaders complement and match up so well is heartwarming in itself. Looks like they'll probably be lifelong friends, since their true talent is helping other ponies discover their true selves and talents, a talent that warms the heart in itself since it often entails helping a lost, possibly alone, and confused pony find something to be proud of.
** Add in that the first they say, in unison, on seeing their marks is: "We all got the same cutie mark!" It's not about their individuality, but they'll be life-long crusaders together.
* Seconds before getting their marks, Scootaloo declares that as long as she's with her friends, she doesn't mind waiting for her cutie mark, and pulls in the other two for a group hug. Made sweeter when you remember that she wasn't too thrilled about being pulled into one in "The Cutie Mark Chronicles". That's some good CharacterDevelopment.
* Applejack telling Apple Bloom that their parents would be proud is both this and a little bit of a TearJerker, as it seems to finally confirm that the Apple parents are indeed dead.
* Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash singing about how proud they are of the CMC finally getting their cutie marks.
** In particular, these lines all have shades of the SoProudOfYou moments:
--> '''Applejack''': [[PromotionToParent Ah sugar cube, if Mom and Dad were here, they'd be so proud of you.]] (gives Apple Bloom a hug)
--> '''Rainbow Dash''': [[CoolBigSis I'm so proud of you, little buddy.]] You've taught me a thing or two. (gives a high-hoof)
--> '''Rarity''': You've inspired everypony around you, and you have inspired me too. (Sweetie blushes at this)
* When the Crusaders triumphantly march into town, everypony turns to see these three fillies who've been running around town doing everything they could think of to get Cutie Marks and wonders why they look so happy and excited. Everypony then see their flanks and grins when they realize that these three fillies finally got their Cutie Marks. The Crusader's big sisters and the rest of the Mane Six are not the only ones proud of the Crusaders. ALL of Ponyville is celebrating the Crusader's finally earning their Cutie Marks!
* The TriumphantReprise of "The Pony I Want To Be" as Diamond Tiara shows how good a pony she can be when she embraces the true nature of her cutie mark (guiding others to work for good rather than just getting what she wants from them). She uses her previous knowledge about the ponies with SuperStrength and big teeth to get them to help out. Before she had made them feel bad about those things in order to get them to do what she wanted, but here she convinces them to use them to help everypony else.
** And she helps Silver Spoon mend a fence. It's a small moment but it shows that, even though they may have been snobby Alpha Bitches, they do still care for each other.
* When the Apples are congratulating Apple Bloom on her cutie mark, Big Mac is in noticeable tears and it's clear the big red lug is going to start bawling at any second. Guess the talk he and Apple Bloom had in the previous episode about not holding back their emotions anymore really worked.
* The picture of showing the Mane Six's Cutie Marks...with the CMC's soon joining them in the middle. It's a sign that they have grown up and can stand side by side with their big sisters.
* The fact that the Crusaders are [[TrueCompanions so tight-knit]], they essentially get the same cutie mark[[note]]OK, minor differences but they look very similar and they mean pretty much the same thing[[/note]] at the same time is one on its own, but [[HeartwarmingInHindsight it gets better]] when you remember [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS5E4BloomAndGloom Apple Bloom's fear that their talents would separate them, especially if they got their marks at different times.]] That episode might have shattered that fear, but this episode ''obliterates'' it by making it a moot point.
** The fact that their Cutie Marks relate to finding the meaning of other Cutie Marks means they don't even have to change their name. The Cutie Mark Crusaders really ''will'' last forever.
* Diamond Tiara: [[WhamLine "These are the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and they are my friends!"]]
* In perhaps the most heartwarming moment of irony for the entire series, Diamond Tiara, [[AlphaBitch the one cruel filly]] that tossed around the 'blank flank' slur for 4 and a half seasons, and was the whole reason why the Cutie Mark Crusaders were formed in the first place, is the first to comment on their newly acquired cutie marks, saying that "They're amazing!"
** Look in the background at Cheerilee when Diamond says this. She's smiling and looks like she's almost tearing up. It must have been an honor to witness three of her beloved students finally getting their cutie marks, and to see the problem child of her class finally come around.
* The episode ending with Princess Celestia and Luna seeing the celebratory photograph. Luna had mentored each of the [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS3E6SleeplessInPonyville three]] [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS4E20ForWhomTheSweetieBelleToils fillies]] [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS5E4BloomAndGloom individually]] and she is delighted to see them earn their Cutie Marks.
* The love for this episode on a meta sense. The last time that something [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS3E13MagicalMysteryCure this big]] happened,it was met with either scorn, meh, or love. This time though, almost everyone loved it and were on board for such a change in our characters.
** Also in a meta sense, the general assumption that the CMC's true talents were obvious, and they were just too obtuse to see them. Even [[http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS1E18TheShowStoppers Twilight]] thought she had them all figured out. But nope; this episode shows that their journey to self-discovery was just that...a process and a journey. Their destiny is one they all chose together.

[[AC: The One Where Pinkie Pie Knows]]
* Regardless of how one might feel about it, the very fact that Cadance and Shining Armor are having a baby is a pretty big one in itself. The baby is also incredibly lucky to have Cadance and Shining Armor as parents as well.
* After her initial shock over the surprise, Twilight gets really happy and excited and rushes to hug her brother and sister-in-law. The look on her face when she figures out she's going to be an aunt makes everything Pinkie Pie had to go through to keep the secret worth it.
--> '''Twilight Sparkle''': ''(excited)'' This is the best prize ever!
** As Twilight is hugging Shining and Cadance, the siblings have this exchange:
--> '''Twilight''': I love you guys! And I can't wait to meet your little foal!
--> '''Shining Armor''': Neither can we.
** The rest of the Mane 6 were ecstatic over the news, too.
* Shining Armor and Cadance are very understanding about Pinkie having trouble keeping such a big secret and don't get mad when they walk in on her almost spilling it.
* We finally get to see [[FandomNod Derpy and Dinky together]]!
* Shining Armor's joy at Twilight recreating his old room (and likely thinking how much his kid will love it). The end of the sequence has him picking her up and twirling her around.
* The CMC weave in and out of the story twice, all cutie-marked up, and it passes without comment, showing that this was a much easier and more natural change in the status quo for everypony to adjust to (both in universe and out) than Twilight's ascension was.
* While mostly funny, there's something quite sweet about Pound Cake riding on Gummy's back, and giving the baby alligator his pacifier (which Pinkie implies to be a regular occurrence).
* Shining Armor calling Twilight "the best little sister in all of Equestria" and referring to her by her [[AffectionateNickname special nickname]]. Even with Twilight as an Alicorn princess and him as Prince of the Crystal Empire, it's clear the two are still as close as ever.
* Shining Armor and Cadance having a child is very likely this for the entire Crystal Empire. For many of them, they had to endure Sombra's tyranny their entire lives, and are now experiencing the joy of having kind rulers for the first time. For them, finally having a benevolent heir to the throne will be a day to truly celebrate.
** Also, remember that the couple had to [[EarnYourHappyEnding Earn Their Happy Ending]] for both the changeling invasion during their wedding and saving the Crystal Empire from Sombra. The fact that they're starting a family made everything they went through worth it.
* At the end of the episode, Cadance gives Pinkie Pie a piece of the cake and thanks her for managing to keep the news that she was pregnant a surprise.

[[AC: Hearthbreakers]]
* Spike may not be too thrilled about his gift, but Twilight is just so happy, grinning ear to ear to see Spike with the present she got for him. On a deeper level, the fact that they have Hearths Warming traditions is further confirmation that they see each other as family, and it's one of the first times we see them acting like this.
* Applejack and Pinkie Pie's new cousinhood bond is as sweet as ever. Even better, they're bringing their families together for Hearth's Warming!
* The whole montage of the Pies and the Apples finding they actually do have some things in common during the rock scavenger hunt.
** Apple Bloom unexpectedly bonds with Maud, first over their dreams about turning into other things, and ending with her petting Boulder and giving him a cake.
** The story of how Igneous and Cloudy Quartz were married, involving something called a "choosing rock." Looking past their monotone and archaic speech, it ''does'' sound like a magical moment. Them blushing at Granny's prodding makes it more adorable.
** Pinkie encourages the equally shy Big Mac and Marble to talk to each other, leading to the most adorable delivery of "Eeyup" in the show's history.
* A small moment but when Pinkie wakes up, we see that she was sleeping in the same bed as her sisters.
* Minor one, but the moment Limestone [[WouldHurtAChild starts to threaten Apple Bloom ("Cross me and I'll--")]] [[PapaWolf a glare crosses Big Mac's face and he starts to raise his foreleg.]] It's probably best for Limestone that Pinkie didn't let her finish.
* Near the end, Apple Bloom is sitting with Maud and petting Boulder, when Limestone Pie comes over with a plate of sweet buns and offers them to Apple Bloom with [[WhenSheSmiles a kind and gentle smile]]. Considering Limestone's [[JerkAss treatment of Apple Bloom earlier]], it's very sweet.

[[AC: Scare Master]]
* Spike gets several throughout the episode, first by encouraging Fluttershy to hang out with the rest of their friends ([[UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom even though this sort-of backfired%that in front of her friends, when you think about it. Being the tough, brave, cocky mare that she is, you'd have expected her to, when the first wave of sorrow hit her, tell them to get out so they wouldn't have to see her have a moment of weakness. But she's so upset at the thought of losing Tank, even for 3 months, she doesn't even care if they see. And when she finally calms down enough to stop crying for real, she thanks them for making her feel better.

** Well, in a sense, Rarity and Rainbow Dash arguably shared the episode "Sonic Rainboom" together; Back then, Rarity's actions of becoming uncharacteristically egotistical made Rainbow very nervous about winning a flight competition with her taking 5D]) because both he and they would have more fun with her there, then once again displaying his UndyingLoyalty for Rarity by going back for her when she trips, and even pulling Pinkie away from the monster later.

** The fact that Rainbow Dash could cry at ''all'' like that in front of her friends, when you think about it. Being the tough, brave, cocky mare that she is, you'd have expected her to, when the first wave of sorrow hit her, tell them to get out so they wouldn't have to see her have a moment of weakness. But she's so upset at the thought of losing Tank, even for 3 months, she doesn't even care if they see. And when she finally calms down enough to stop crying for real, she thanks them for making her feel better.

** Well, in a sense, Rarity and Rainbow Dash arguably shared the episode "Sonic Rainboom" together; Back then, Rarity's actions of becoming uncharacteristically egotistical made Rainbow very nervous about winning a flight competition with her taking part in it. However, as Rarity nearly died as a consequence, Rainbow was able to pull off the Sonic Rainboom to save her life. Here in this episode, Rarity returns the favor by saving Rainbow Dash from losing her reputation with the Wonderbolts.
** Also, out of all of Rainbow Dash's friends, you'd think that Rarity would care the least about Dash's dream of becoming a Wonderbolt coming true, due to them having such a difference in interests. But when Rarity shushes Soarin' and tells him to let Dash have her little happy dance at hearing the news that she could fly with her heroes, you could see from the smile on her face that she ''was'' happy for her friend.
* Rarity booping Rainbow Dash when applying sunscreen on her.

[[AC: Made In Manehattan]]
* Everypony in that part of Manehattan becoming a little closer.
* Rarity buying Applejack a new cowpony hat after her old one got trashed.

[[AC: Brotherhooves Social]]
* Rainbow acting as a CoolBigSis and racing with Scootaloo despite not being her actual sis.
* Sweetie Belle being happy to be at the Social so she can cheer Dash and Scootaloo on even though she's disappointed she can't participate herself.
* Big Mac is willing to be DisguisedInDrag so his little sister can have a good time.
* The fact that the judges didn't actually care that much about Big Mac being a guy and that they're willing to stretch the definition of "sister" for the fillies wanting to participate.
** And the fact that while everypony on screen stares a bit, nobody treats him poorly for it. Or even if they find it silly, nobody says anything to him that's genuinely mean. Sweetie Belle even says that while she does find it a bit weird, it's still sweet that he did this just to help out his little sis.
* The ending, when Big Macintosh confesses he was so desperate to help Apple Bloom win a ribbon because Applejack's heroics make him feel insignificant. Apple Bloom gives him a big hug and assures him that he ''does'' matter.
** It's more than that. Big Mac isn't doing it because he is jealous of Applejack and her fame. He is doing it because he wants his little sister to be happy and see him as her hero AS WELL. Not replace Applejack... just stand beside her. Rather than be a jerk who begrudges Applejack Big Mac accepts what she does and just wants to be seen in a similar light when it comes to his little sister. And Apple Bloom realizes her mistake and decides to spend some time with him rather than race off to see Applejack.
** The whole thing ends with both of them choosing to watch the sunset together rather than go greet Applejack, and Apple Bloom asks Big Mac to do the Orchard Blossom voice again before the credits roll. *sniff*
* At the start Applejack clearly knows something is up and approaches him about it. She doesn't get angry when she gets one word answers and is persistent but gentle with him. She's just a good a sister to him as Apple Bloom and if she hadn't been called away... well the episode would have been shorter.
* The last time Big Mac spoke this much was also to Apple Bloom in "Ponyville Confidential", [[TheReasonYouSuckSpeech which didn't end very well]]. Not only is any implication Big Mac is still angry with his baby sister thoroughly abolished with this episode, but he similarly goes into a rare advanced conversation, not once, but several times. It seems Apple Bloom is one of very few ponies that can bring him out of his quiet shell.

[[AC: Crusaders Of The Lost Mark]]
* The CMC helping Pip win the election, and even though they don't get their cutie marks from that, they don't seem to mind much.
** And Sweetie Belle magically lifts him up so he can join their hoof bump.
* The CMC response to watching their worst enemy, lose an election and learning her friend didn't vote for her, then run off? Go after her and make sure she's okay.
* The Cutie Mark Crusaders, upon realizing that Diamond Tiara has no friends besides Silver Spoon (at least until she snapped at her during the election campaign, at which point it became no friends ''at all''), decided to try and keep her from feeling lonely instead of gloating. Because of this, Diamond Tiara starts to warm up to them and undergoes some serious CharacterDevelopment.
* The very fact that the cutie marks of the Cutie Mark Crusaders complement and match up so well is heartwarming in itself. Looks like they'll probably be lifelong friends, since their true talent is helping other ponies discover their true selves and talents, a talent that warms the heart in itself since it often entails helping a lost, possibly alone, and confused pony find something to be proud of.
** Add in that the first they say, in unison, on seeing their marks is: "We all got the same cutie mark!" It's not about their individuality, but they'll be life-long crusaders together.
* Seconds before getting their marks, Scootaloo declares that as long as she's with her friends, she doesn't mind waiting for her cutie mark, and pulls in the other two for a group hug. Made sweeter when you remember that she wasn't too thrilled about being pulled into one in "The Cutie Mark Chronicles". That's some good CharacterDevelopment.
* Applejack telling Apple Bloom that their parents would be proud is both this and a little bit of a TearJerker, as it seems to finally confirm that the Apple parents are indeed dead.
* Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash singing about how proud they are of the CMC finally getting their cutie marks.
** In particular, these lines all have shades of the SoProudOfYou moments:
--> '''Applejack''': [[PromotionToParent Ah sugar cube, if Mom and Dad were here, they'd be so proud of you.]] (gives Apple Bloom a hug)
--> '''Rainbow Dash''': [[CoolBigSis I'm so proud of you, little buddy.]] You've taught me a thing or two. (gives a high-hoof)
--> '''Rarity''': You've inspired everypony around you, and you have inspired me too. (Sweetie blushes at this)
* When the Crusaders triumphantly march into town, everypony turns to see these three fillies who've been running around town doing everything they could think of to get Cutie Marks and wonders why they look so happy and excited. Everypony then see their flanks and grins when they realize that these three fillies finally got their Cutie Marks. The Crusader's big sisters and the rest of the Mane Six are not the only ones proud of the Crusaders. ALL of Ponyville is celebrating the Crusader's finally earning their Cutie Marks!
* The TriumphantReprise of "The Pony I Want To Be" as Diamond Tiara shows how good a pony she can be when she embraces the true nature of her cutie mark (guiding others to work for good rather than just getting what she wants from them). She uses her previous knowledge about the ponies with SuperStrength and big teeth to get them to help out. Before she had made them feel bad about those things in order to get them to do what she wanted, but here she convinces them to use them to help everypony else.
** And she helps Silver Spoon mend a fence. It's a small moment but it shows that, even though they may have been snobby Alpha Bitches, they do still care for each other.
* When the Apples are congratulating Apple Bloom on her cutie mark, Big Mac is in noticeable tears and it's clear the big red lug is going to start bawling at any second. Guess the talk he and Apple Bloom had in the previous episode about not holding back their emotions anymore really worked.
* The picture of showing the Mane Six's Cutie Marks...with the CMC's soon joining them in the middle. It's a sign that they have grown up and can stand side by side with their big sisters.
* The fact that the Crusaders are [[TrueCompanions so tight-knit]], they essentially get the same cutie mark[[note]]OK, minor differences but they look very similar and they mean pretty much the same thing[[/note]] at the same time is one on its own, but [[HeartwarmingInHindsight it gets better]] when you remember [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS5E4BloomAndGloom Apple Bloom's fear that their talents would separate them, especially if they got their marks at different times.]] That episode might have shattered that fear, but this episode ''obliterates'' it by making it a moot point.
** The fact that their Cutie Marks relate to finding the meaning of other Cutie Marks means they don't even have to change their name. The Cutie Mark Crusaders really ''will'' last forever.
* Diamond Tiara: [[WhamLine "These are the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and they are my friends!"]]
* In perhaps the most heartwarming moment of irony for the entire series, Diamond Tiara, [[AlphaBitch the one cruel filly]] that tossed around the 'blank flank' slur for 4 and a half seasons, and was the whole reason why the Cutie Mark Crusaders were formed in the first place, is the first to comment on their newly acquired cutie marks, saying that "They're amazing!"
** Look in the background at Cheerilee when Diamond says this. She's smiling and looks like she's almost tearing up. It must have been an honor to witness three of her beloved students finally getting their cutie marks, and to see the problem child of her class finally come around.
* The episode ending with Princess Celestia and Luna seeing the celebratory photograph. Luna had mentored each of the [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS3E6SleeplessInPonyville three]] [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS4E20ForWhomTheSweetieBelleToils fillies]] [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS5E4BloomAndGloom individually]] and she is delighted to see them earn their Cutie Marks.
* The love for this episode on a meta sense. The last time that something [[Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS3E13MagicalMysteryCure this big]] happened,it was met with either scorn, meh, or love. This time though, almost everyone loved it and were on board for such a change in our characters.
** Also in a meta sense, the general assumption that the CMC's true talents were obvious, and they were just too obtuse to see them. Even [[http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Recap/MyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicS1E18TheShowStoppers Twilight]] thought she had them all figured out. But nope; this episode shows that their journey to self-discovery was just that...a process and a journey. Their destiny is one they all chose together.

[[AC: The One Where Pinkie Pie Knows]]
* Regardless of how one might feel about it, the very fact that Cadance and Shining Armor are having a baby is a pretty big one in itself. The baby is also incredibly lucky to have Cadance and Shining Armor as parents as well.
* After her initial shock over the surprise, Twilight gets really happy and excited and rushes to hug her brother and sister-in-law. The look on her face when she figures out she's going to be an aunt makes everything Pinkie Pie had to go through to keep the secret worth it.
--> '''Twilight Sparkle''': ''(excited)'' This is the best prize ever!
** As Twilight is hugging Shining and Cadance, the siblings have this exchange:
--> '''Twilight''': I love you guys! And I can't wait to meet your little foal!
--> '''Shining Armor''': Neither can we.
** The rest of the Mane 6 were ecstatic over the news, too.
* Shining Armor and Cadance are very understanding about Pinkie having trouble keeping such a big secret and don't get mad when they walk in on her almost spilling it.
* We finally get to see [[FandomNod Derpy and Dinky together]].
* Shining Armor's joy at Twilight recreating his old room (and likely thinking how much his kid will love it). The end of the sequence has him picking her up and twirling her around.
* The CMC weave in and out of the story twice, all cutie-marked up, and it passes without comment, showing that this was a much easier and more natural change in the status quo for everypony to adjust to (both in universe and out) than Twilight's ascension was.
* While mostly funny, there's something quite sweet about Pound Cake riding on Gummy's back, and giving the baby alligator his pacifier (which Pinkie implies to be a regular occurrence).
* Shining Armor calling Twilight "the best little sister in all of Equestria" and referring to her by her [[AffectionateNickname special nickname]]. Even with Twilight as an Alicorn princess and him as Prince of the Crystal Empire, it's clear the two are still as close as ever.
* Shining Armor and Cadance having a child is very likely this for the entire Crystal Empire. For many of them, they had to endure Sombra's tyranny their entire lives, and are now experiencing the joy of having kind rulers for the first time. For them, finally having a benevolent heir to the throne will be a day to truly celebrate.
** Also, remember that the couple had to [[EarnYourHappyEnding Earn Their Happy Ending]] for both the changeling invasion during their wedding and saving the Crystal Empire from Sombra. The fact that they're starting a family made everything they went through worth it.
* At the end of the episode, Cadance gives Pinkie Pie a piece of the cake and thanks her for managing to keep the news that she was pregnant a surprise.

[[AC: Hearthbreakers]]
* Spike may not appreciate the gift, but Twilight is just so happy, grinning ear to ear to see Spike with the present she got for him. On a deeper level, the fact that they have Hearths Warming traditions is further confirmation that they see each other as family, and it's one of the first times we see them acting like this.
* Applejack and Pinkie Pie's new cousinhood bond is as sweet as ever. Even better, they're bringing their families together for Hearth's Warming!
* The whole montage of the Pies and the Apples finding they actually do have some things in common during the rock scavenger hunt.
** Apple Bloom unexpectedly bonds with Maud, first over their dreams about turning into other things, and ending with her petting Boulder and giving him a cake.
** The story of how Igneous and Cloudy Quartz were married, involving something called a "choosing rock." Looking past their monotone and archaic speech, it ''does'' sound like a magical moment. Them blushing at Granny's prodding makes it more adorable.
** Pinkie encourages the equally shy Big Mac and Marble to talk to each other, leading to the most adorable delivery of "Eeyup" in the show's history.
* A small moment but when Pinkie wakes up, we see that she was sleeping in the same bed as her sisters.
* Minor one, but the moment Limestone [[WouldHurtAChild starts to threaten Apple Bloom ("Cross me and I'll--")]] [[PapaWolf a glare crosses Big Mac's face and he starts to raise his foreleg.]] It's probably best for Limestone that Pinkie didn't let her finish.
* Near the end, Apple Bloom is sitting with Maud and petting Boulder, when Limestone Pie comes over with a plate of sweet buns and offers them to Apple Bloom with [[WhenSheSmiles a kind and gentle smile]]. Considering Limestone's [[JerkAss treatment of Apple Bloom earlier]], it's very sweet.

[[AC: Scare Master]]
* Spike gets several throughout the episode, first by encouraging Fluttershy to hang out with the rest of their friends ([[UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom even though this sort-of backfired]]) because both he and they would have more fun with her there, then once again displaying his UndyingLoyalty for Rarity by going back for her when she trips, and even pulling Pinkie away from the monster later.

** WordOfGod is that [[spoiler: the changeling]] is a friend of Matilida's. This begs the question, which is more heartwarming, that a donkey would make friends with a [[spoiler: changeling, a creature that would normally be her worst enemy, or that the changeling values her friendship so much that he is willing to sit in a room full of ponies, a race of creatures who fear and hate him, just to be present on her wedding day?]]

* Spike talking about how he'll be discussing sports with Big Macintosh while the girls are away on their adventure. While it's played for laughs [[note]]Fluttershy was reluctant to go on the most recent adventure and wanted to stay behind with Spike, then immediately changed her mind when she heard Spike talk about "hoofball"[[/note]], it's still nice to see that Spike has made friends ''other'' than the Mane Six (doubly so as, unlike the Mane Six, he hasn't been seen hanging out with other ponies). Slightly mitigated by the revelation that [[spoiler:Spike was also planning to swindle a card from Mac, but only slightly]].

** Or also heartwarming in it's own way, Discord liked Luna enough to free her from corruption himself. [[BaitTheDog So he could torture her, but still...]]

-->'''Mayor Mare''': It makes you realize, that everyone is the star of their own story. [[AnAesop And, it's not just the main characters in our stories that make life so rich.]] It's everypony, those who play big parts, and those who play small.

*** Considering that this episode is dedicated to a fandom with a good deal of merciless shippers, the sole fact that they [[CrowningMomentofHeartwarming seriously had Twilight say the word love]] ''[[CrowningMomentofHeartwarming and]]'' [[CrowningMomentofHeartwarming hug her friends is]] ''[[CrowningMomentofHeartwarming unthinkable!]]''

* The TriumphantReprise of "The Pony I Want To Be" as Diamond Tiara shows how good a pony she can be when she embraces the true nature of her cutie mark (guiding others to work for good rather than just getting what she wants from them). She uses her previous knowledge about the pony with SuperStrength and big teeth to get them to help out. Before she had made them feel bad about those things in order to get them to do what she wanted, but here she convinces them to use them to help everypony else.

* When Applebloom is worried about getting her cutie mark at bedtime, Applejack [[BigBrotherInstinct calms her down]] by [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bH4G8blw7WU singing a soft lullaby]]. She also tells Applebloom that, no matter what her cutie mark is, that they'll always love each other.

** It's more than that. Big Mac isn't doing it because he is jealous of Applejack and her fame. He is doing it because he wants his little sister to be happy and see him as her hero AS WELL. Not replace Applejack... just stand beside her. Rather than be a jerk who begrudges Applejack Big Mac accepts what she does and just wants to be seen in a similar light when it comes to his little sister. And Applebloom realizes her mistake and decides to spend some time with him rather than race off to see Applejack.

* The CMC response to watching their worst enemy, loose an election and learning her friend didn't vote for her, then run off? Go after her and make sure she's okay.

* Applejack telling Applebloom that their parents would be proud is both this and a little bit of a TearJerker, as it seems to finally confirm that the Apple parents are indeed dead.

** In Particular...these lines all have shades of the SoProudOfYou moments:
--> '''Applejack''': [[PromotionToParent Ah sugar cube, if Mom and Dad were here, they'd be so proud of you.]] (gives Applebloom a hug)

* Regardless of how one might feel about it, the very fact that Cadence and Shining Armor are having a baby is a pretty big one in itself. The baby is also incredibly lucky to have Cadence and Shining Armor as parents as well.

** As Twilight is hugging Shining and Cadence, the siblings have this exchange:

* At the end of the episode, Cadence gives Pinkie Pie a piece of the cake and thanks her for managing to keep the news that she was pregnant a surprise.

* In a FreezeFrameBonus during the maze, Derpy can be seen dressed as Twilight. We don't see the mane 6 interact with the background characters that much, so its sweet seeing Derpy is apparently on such good terms with Twilight she decided to go as her.

* While Discord was Trolling Twilight the entire time, he seems to hold it important that, rather than just enjoy watching her stew in silence, she open up and not feel ashamed by her jealousy, and thus that his otherwise somewhat mean prank for once end with mercy on it's victim and have ''some'' happy, positive effect. This is especially notable given Discord's previous bout of envy.

* It's not entirely 'heartwarming' (in fact, it's a little depressing), but in the future with King Sombra Pinkie and Maud are on the [[SiblingTeam front lines together]] as a perfectly synced fighting team.

* Chrysalis Wins! Zecora being the only alternate version of one of Twilight's friends to show her compassion and help her, and even [[HeroicSacrifice taking on Chrysalis on her own to buy her time to fix the past]] (and given what she knows, likely knowing if Twilight succeeds [[RetGone she will cease to exist]]). Shows how fundamentally good a person Zecora is.

* Throughout the past seasons, we've seen how close Twilight was to her mentor, Princess Celestia. Now she has a chance to replicate that with [[spoiler: Starlight]] and you can be sure she'll be as good a mentor as Celestia was.