The New Normal For What Family Is

No matter the size, location, relationship or meaning, we all have a family. A home family, a work family, a school family and so on. A family does not have to be blood related, it’s more about who is special to us.

The typical family consisting of a mom, dad, kids etc. is becoming less and less normal. I bet most of us know families that have two moms, or three parents, or step-dads or family members from different cultures. The modern family has become a melting  pot to the point that when you think of the Cosby’s or the Cleaver’s, they seem to be the odd group.

My personal family still remains very traditional, but new people keep getting added which  brings a new dynamic and view of the world. I say as long as they are true to who they are and care about the family, they can stay.

Why am I going on about the not-so-normal family dynamic? Well, because, this month on Netflix, they are featuring a wide range of families that don’t fit under the “normal” umbrella.

TV shows such as Full House (which I watched growing up) and movies like Despicable Me (that our oldest loves).

They both feature a family that you would not expect to see, or work, for that matter.

Family is special. You look out for each other and you have each other’s back. Family is a team and while there will be fights and battles, it should all be for the greater good.

When watching Despicable Me with the kids, at first you think Gru does not like anybody. He is the evil villain. But as the movie progresses, even the kids picked up on the fact that he was like the dad, or wanted to be a dad to everyone. His angry and scary personality was just a front, hiding the caring person he really is.

He added to what the kids already had. He was another person looking out for their best interests.

If you want to really see what a modern family is like, Netflix recently released yet another top-notch original series.

It is called Grace and Frankie.

Grace and Frankie, Netflix’s new funny and fearless original comedy featuring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, is a perfect example of how today’s families can shift, rearrange and blend in unexpected ways. When Grace and Frankie’s husbands leave them after 40 years of marriage—to be with each other—the women find themselves facing a change they never expected. They shift their perspective to get through it together, with the support of their new blended family and, of course, a sense of humour. 

The cast is perfect for this kind of family dynamic. I am sure there are millions of women out there who have been in this exact boat and thought the relationship was considered weird. Nope, it’s pretty normal. Family is what you make it.

I can’t predict how our family will change or evolve over the years. Our two boys one day will have special people in their lives to add to the mix. Like I said, I don’t care what their life choices are, what colour they are, where they come from, as long as you are real, you care about each other and you keep the drama out, you are more than welcome to stay. Family is the most important thing you have. You can’t buy one. You can’t really choose one. You for the most part, can’t really replace one. It’s a lot of trust. That is what makes it so special.

Want to watch some great family dynamics on Netflix with your family? These are all shows I watched growing up and I look forward to when my guys are old enough to try them out.

And for teens and adults:

       

Remember, Netflix has so much content, no matter your taste. This is only scratching the surface. Give it a try for yourself and enjoy some quality family time.

#streamteam