Families
Family relationships, in all their complicated glory. Families explores the intricacies of being parents, siblings, mentors, and friends.
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Top Stories
Stories in Families that you’ll love, handpicked by our team.
Driver's Test
"She wants to know what happens if she answers wrong," I told the man behind the counter. Eyeing my teenage daughter, he replied, "Oh, a red light flashes and a siren goes off, so everyone knows!"
Andrea CorwinPublished 10 days ago in FamiliesThe Llama & Koala
Story & Illustrations © ‘For our Kids Someday’ It has been raining cats and dogs, the skys’ been nothing but gray, our
Jay KantorPublished 2 months ago in FamiliesDear Mom
Dear Mom (An open letter to my 1950’s mother) By: De Etta Miller Dear Mom, I’m not sure if this letter is for you or for me. But decades after your leaving, I feel the need to say: “I’m sorry.” I don’t know that I even believe in Heaven. I can only assume, that which was taught throughout my childhood might have some validity. Perhaps we all find the truth of our afterlife when it is indeed time for an afterlife. But what I do know and believe in, is how hard and yet delightful motherhood can be.
DeEtta MillerPublished 2 months ago in FamiliesStars in My Pockets
The La-Z-boy chair was burgundy. Carefully selected to meet my mother’s needs of both comfort and stability, this chair had the added bonus of also matching the living room. There came a day when I couldn’t hug her for fear of hurting her, but I could lean into her by leaning into the chair’s cushions.
Lydia StewartPublished 3 months ago in FamiliesMy Oma, My Dragon of Memory
The last time I saw my Oma she was old, small, tired, and in pain; lying in an oversized chair, wrapped in blankets with a cast on her arm and two nurses at her side. I remember placing my hand upon her and saying "goodbye Oma, I love you." I didn't plan on it being the last time. 4 hrs later I got a phone call. She had passed away in her sleep, just minutes after I had left. This is the last image of her that I hold in my mind. But that was far from all of her.
Effervescence
Gma shows me how to fold paper napkins, fives, and socks into the brown paper bags we bring to the park to leave for the forest of sleeping bags.
Christy MunsonPublished 3 months ago in FamiliesReturn of the Stay at Home Dad
My daughter’s mother, my ex, died. The funeral was to happen in 48 hours. I scrambled to find the quickest way back to Minnesota from Bali, Indonesia. I told my daughter to do her best with the funeral arrangements until I arrived.
Arlo HenningsPublished 3 months ago in FamiliesTiny pink shoes
The drive home from the hospital was quiet, I always pictured this day differently. We had so much to say but we kept the thoughts to ourselves, as if it was taboo to speak. I wanted to say something and nearly do, when I glance at her she is looking elsewhere.
Collections
Themed story collections curated by the Vocal moderators.
Kids Say the Darndest Things
The unfiltered truths from the fruits of our loins. And the creepiest things they've ever said. Help?
Parenting Wars
Do or do not - there is no try. The ins and outs of one of the most difficult jobs on earth: parenting.
Nature vs. Nurture
What plays into our humanity? Nature vs. Nurture – how two factors affect one individual.
Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Families.
Love around the corner short story
The hum of the bustling coffee shop was Amelia's soundtrack for solitude. Nestled in her usual corner booth, she sipped her lukewarm latte, the steam swirling around her face mirroring the whirlwind of emotions within. Today's culprit? A missed opportunity. Again.
Moharif YuliantoPublished about 4 hours ago in FamiliesThe Beauty within
It was my mother's funeral, Queene had died. And my father, Benji died before that. Relatives and friends alike came to wail the loss. And they wore their fancy clothing and embrace one another. I was there with my family the doctor I married was still the beautiful woman I loved. And she gave me a daughter named Zula. And Zula was an exact epitome of her grandmother Queene. She was beautiful and smart and talented. We were there with relatives and friends alike. And we sung the songs of our people Oh wa Oh wa Oh wa nay nay nay shaba. And then the song Doah doah doah shaba shaba shabha Dah na. Then the song wah wah wah naba wah wah wah naba shaba shaba shaba ra. And I testified as Maco their son about my mother's life and father's life and their love and hardwork. I was hoping to see my brother Tarack but I did not see him. So I went on talking about their love story and the lives that they touched. And how much they meant to me and my family. I was just about to finish when Tarack came at the last minute. And he did not want to speak. He just cried like a child and broke down saying Mama. After I introduced my daughter Zula and Tarack was glad to say he was her uncle. And hug me and my wife the doctor. And the Doctor said you made sure you are staying out of harm's way and doing everything to maintain your health. And Tarack was shocked but she laughed and said that's my profession, it's a profession joke. Tarack smiled and said My niece look like my mother. I guess you did pick the right woman. I was shocked that Tarack gave a compliment like that. And he left and I looked at my wife and I was wondering what Tarack was up to because he said that abruptly. And I tried to catch up to him but I could not he escaped. It bothered me what he said and I wanted to know the meaning behind it. Did my brother want a family? Was he having family issues? Does he have a child? And my daughter Zula said she would go out and find her uncle. She said Uncle Tarack doesn't live far from here. I just need a few protectors' father and I can go. I at first objected to it but her mother convinced me to let her go saying she is young and grown. She needs adventure. So I gave my okay. And she kissed me and hug her mother and got ready. I told Shobat our servant that if anything happen to her it would be his head with the rest of the men because she is my only daughter. And Zula waved and went into the mountains and she look back one last time and kept going. After days and days of travelling, Zula believed they were wondering and she saw a man hunting and called for him. He said hi my name is Gacobs. And Zula introduced herself and said he looked familiar. And she asked him if he ever heard of Tarack. And Gacobs said while making them dinner, there is a story about this warrior who roam around here. This warrior was in loved with nature though he was very handsome and old. He would run with the cheetah. He would play with the lion. And he would ride the zebra. And he would chase the heines. And he was one with the nature but nobody knows what happen to him. Zula said I think you are talking about my uncle and his name is Tarack. Zula asked his story. And Gacobs said my father left my mother when I was young. He left after teaching me how to hunt and fish. He left after teaching me to walk and play. He loved animals but that's all I know. Then something was happening with the animals, they were running the next day early. And Gacobs tried to calm my fears and he rescued me from the herd. Shobat and the men escaped and found me. And it was Tarack on a zebra, Zula did not noticed him until he said my daughter from my brother. Zula cried and bowed Uncle I found you. My father your brother is worried for you. Tarack said about what? She said he is worried that something is bothering you. He said No not really. Gacobs said Sir you do remind me of my father. He looked a lot like you. Tarack resisted and he turned and said, That is what I am worried about, my son Gacobs your cousin. Zula shocked and traditionally welcome her cousin. Tarack said I did not raise him. I abandon him and now what legacy do I have. Zula tried many times convincing him but Gacobs interrupted the last time. Gacobs firmly said You taught me to walk. You taught me to fish. You taught me to hunt. You are still my father. Tarack cried silently and he said Whatever you want son I will give it to you even half of my treasures. Gacobs said Dad father leave the land and come home. Go back to your mother's land. Tarack agreed and they all went back with Zula. Tarack guided with Gacobs and Zula. And Tarack whispered to Gacobs that he thinks Shobat likes Zula because he keeps staring at her and looking at her. So Gacobs introduced himself to Shobat and said So you like my cousin. And he said she is very lovely. And Tarack and Gacobs introduced the fact that Shobat had a crushed on Zula to Zula. And Zula called for her father and they throw a big celebration. And Zula introduced her cousin Gacobs and her uncle Tarack while claiming her new boyfriend Shobat. And the family was one again and they were beautifully united and happy celebrating one another and enjoying each other company.
Matthew PrimousPublished about 13 hours ago in FamiliesA Mother’s Journey: The Displacement and Refugee Crisis of the Ukrainian War
A Mother’s Journey: The Displacement and Refugee Crisis of the Ukrainian War Maria clutched her seven-year-old daughter, Anya, close as they trudged along the muddy path leading out of their village in eastern Ukraine. The winter wind bit at their faces, and Maria's worn coat provided little protection against the cold. Anya’s small hand, gloved in mittens too large for her, tightened around her mother’s fingers. The distant rumble of artillery was a constant reminder of the war they were fleeing.
ADEKUNLE CLEMENTPublished about 14 hours ago in FamiliesThe Garden of Memories
In a quaint town nestled between rolling hills and blooming fields, there lived a young woman named Lily. She had always felt a deep connection to nature, finding solace and joy in the vibrant colors and delicate scents of her garden. Her garden was her sanctuary, a place where she could escape the mundane and dream of endless possibilities.
LAKSHMAN MOHANRAJPublished about 17 hours ago in FamiliesThe Ice Maker Machine
The ice maker machine is an indispensable device in many modern households and businesses. With its ability to quickly produce clean ice cubes, the ice maker machine has become a vital tool for cooling beverages, preserving food, and various other applications. Not only does it save time and effort, but it also ensures the quality and hygiene of the ice cubes, meeting the ever-increasing demands of consumers.The development history of ice maker machines has seen numerous technological advancements, evolving from the early rudimentary devices to today's modern machines with many advanced features. Nowadays, consumers can easily find ice maker machines that suit their needs, from compact household models to large industrial machines.
How to Overcome Relationship Challenges in Marriage
Introduction Marriage is a beautiful union between two individuals who have chosen to commit to each other through thick and thin. However, like any relationship, marriage is not immune to challenges. It is natural for couples to face difficulties and conflicts as they navigate through the ups and downs of life together. In this article, we will explore some common relationship problems in marriage and provide practical strategies to overcome them, fostering a deeper connection and nurturing love.
Samson E. GiftedPublished a day ago in FamiliesA Birthday Trip to Remember
My earliest childhood memory is from when I just turned 3. It’s patchy and vague, but I remember it because it was such a unique and memorable event: my father took me on a train ride from Bishkek (then Frunze) to Moscow. The Soviet Union was huge, so that trip took three days and three nights one way. I remember the rhythmic and calming sound of the train, which I love even now. I still prefer traveling by train over a plane or car.
Lana V LynxPublished a day ago in FamiliesThe Beauty of Life
There was changed everywhere. Change in the atmosphere. Change with the environment. People were feeling change and they did not know what type of future would come to them. People were worried. People were fretting and anxious. And it can be felt throughout the whole region. We knew something was brewing and it was not good. As Queene and Benji grew their family, they had two children, two sons. One was much older and was one was much younger. Tarack and Maco were not alike. Some people did not believe they were full blooded brothers. One was day and one was night. And they did not get along either. They were total opposite. Sometimes Tarack was gentle and Maco was angry. And Maco was gentle and Tarack was angry. And their appearance was somewhat alike and somewhat different. Everytime they get into an argument, Tarack would remind Maco who watched him when his parents were not around and who saved him plenty of times from trouble. Maco would brush off the same rebuttal. And Tarack kept saying there will be times you need me and I won't be there to save you and neither would Mom or Dad. And Maco would shrug off the lesson. And it happened as Maco was attending to the sheep and cattle that a lion came out of nowhere to attack and Maco was struggling but he managed to hit the foot of the lion and the lion ranaway crying. He told the story to everyone, his mother and father and his brother and his friends and his family. And they did not believe him until they saw the broken staff with lion's teeth marks. And Tarack was jealous that he could not celebrate with his family. And Maco tried to talk him down and say that family is family. I still need you but not as much. And you will always be my older brother. Mom and Dad still need you to be the strong one. I just got lucky. And Tarack would listen but play with the fire he had made to stay warm. And one of the times, a cheetah came out of the darkness to attack a cattle. And Tarack fought it and the cheetah got at his leg but he stab the cheetah in the head and punched it. and the cheetah ranaway. Tarack came limping home. And he endured the pain and walk through the door. And Benji caught him before he fell. And Tarack was trying to explain how a hero he was. And his father and mother were worried about his health. Maco praised Tarack and called him a hero. And they called the doctor to check on his health. The doctor was a beautiful woman, she had just finished her education. And she was on her first assignment with Tarack. Maco was in loved and flirting with the doctor but Tarack was acting tough and annoyed. The doctor recommended that he stay in and heal and get plenty of rest. Tarack resisted but his parents listened and forced him to. Tarack learned to like being off his feet but he was so bored. And Maco begin talking to him, you know that doctor is beautiful. I love her. Tarack said you would love anything but my love is for the land. My love is for the adventure. My love is for the outdoors. I can't be kept. I can't be silenced. I can't be housed. And just when Maco was about to finish the doctor came in. She overheard Tarack demand and she said you have been doing good for months maybe you should see the outdoors. And Tarack lited up and immediately tried to leave. He was so happy he kissed Mom and the doctor on the cheek. Maco asked out the doctor and the doctor after Maco convinced her begin to order dates. Tarack rode on horses. Tarack played with the cattle. Tarack picked up the sheep. Eventually he ran throughout the country went on long walks breathe in and breathe out the nature stood up late and rose early. Maco eventually got married while Tarack politely waited till his love for nature came to a hold.
Matthew PrimousPublished a day ago in Families
Creators We’re Loving
The creative faces behind your favorite stories.
Judey Kalchik
344 published stories
D. A. Ratliff
71 published stories
Jade Haumann
6 published stories
Tim Boxer
14 published stories
Sian N. Clutton
72 published stories
Lana V Lynx
238 published stories
Heather Lunsford
28 published stories
Lydia Stewart
30 published stories
Rachel Deeming
387 published stories
Arlo Hennings
117 published stories
Carl J. Petersen
180 published stories
Hannah York
54 published stories