Family:Simple Or Complex - What Does The Term Mean To You?

Family! What does the word family mean to you? For some people, it is simply "a group consisting of 2 parents and their children living together as a unit"; that is if the couple decide to have any children. For some it goes way deeper than this! It's amazing how such a simple term can become complex isn't it? Especially when you hear of stories and dealings in various parts of the world. I have come to realise that, although there is no need to compare notes with anyone else when it comes to family dealings,  telling your story and hearing other people's story can present a vital opportunity to learn some good things so, I will share my musings about family life from time to time and ask vital questions, for experienced people to respond via comments. I like to keep my personal family dealings personal but some topics generally cut across geographical borders, cultures and timelines, including what works when raising kids, so we can go to town on such topics and keep things simple and interesting.