(1)  COMMITMENT – work to promote each other’s happiness.  They share meaningful experiences by setting family goals and carrying them out.  (2)  EXPRESSED APPRECIATION – express appreciation thru words and actions.  They let one another know how important they are.  (3)  STRONG MARRIAGE – the health of the marriage influences a family’s well-being.  Clear communication,  mutual respect and self-disclosure are signs of a healthy marriage & family.  Crucial for blended families and single-parent families, but can be done.  (4)  TIME TOGETHER – strong families frequently work, play, eat and attend religious and social functions together.  They cut  down on outside involvements in order to have quality time together as a family.  MORE TO COME!