Today is National Family Day

You are likely familiar with Mother's Day, Father's Day, Children's Day, and Grandparents Day, but do you know about National Family Day? Well, today is National Family Day and according to nationaltoday(dot)com it, "puts the spotlight on the people who make our lives meaningful. Families come in many forms and sizes and under different circumstances, but what they all share is unconditional love and support for those growing on the same family tree. From nuclear family units to extended clans, families can drive us crazy and make life worth living. Take some time today to appreciate the special folks in your life — give them a call, take them out to lunch, or send them a note to let them know you’re thinking of them!"

So before we look at what to do to celebrate your family, let's look at some fun facts about families, did you know . . .

• In the US, the average family size is 3.14 persons.
• Pets are an important part of families.
• 32% – the percentage of single parents who account for family households with children under the age of 18.
• 19.2 million – the number of families living in the U.K. in 2019.
• ⅔ – the fraction of families in the U.K represented by married or civil partner couples.
• Two out of three – the number of adolescents aged 12–17 who live with both parents. 
• 7% – the percentage of children who lived at their grandparents’ homes in 2017.
• 63% – the percentage of parents of teens who feel they can talk about meaningful things with their children.
• Network executives hesitated to cast Lucille Ball’s real-life husband Desi Arnaz but, at Ball’s insistence, Lucy and Ricky became the first interracial couple on television and spawned an American classic.
• Believe it or not, the first PC on television appeared on The Addams Family in the 1960s.

You will find out more about National Family Day at this link. As NationalToday.com says, "Good family relationships do wonders for our mental and physical health. Maintaining and nurturing close relationships can contribute to a happier, healthier, longer life."

So, gather with your family, have a meal together - or a dessert. Play some games, visit a park, take photos, laugh together, enjoy your time together - and if you can not connect in person, make a phone call or connect through tech - or plan to get together in a few days to celebrate!

A family is a gift, so take time to enjoy this gift and celebrate your family!