Indeed average rules! I'm glad that this show has survived on network. The norm should be celebrated norm and not in such an insulting manner which the modern TV world just loves to do. Patricia Heaton is a fresh breath of air in an otherwise polluted, pretentious atmosphere in Hollywood. The dynamics and quirks of everyday life is the glue of the show. The kids, including the extremely awkward girl and youngest geeky boy on the show is sweet and deliciously weird.