Around 80% of Americans have at least one sibling — and those relationships are typically the longest-lasting ones in our lives.

• Why it matters: Our bonds with our siblings shape us.

💼 Case in point: One study demonstrated that positive relationships with siblings are linked to healthier social lives and lower depression among teens.

• On the other hand, toxic sibling relationships can trigger anxiety and depression.

Zoom in: All three of us have been blessed with siblings who inspire and ground us.

Mike: My parents had four kids in four years: two boys and two girls, three of them with June birthdays.

• Fun fact: My brother, Scott, and I were both born on June 21, a year apart. My mom used to say: “He was your FIRST birthday present.” At the time, I was like: “Can’t I have a scooter?” But now it’s fun to celebrate together.

💡 The big idea: About eight years ago, the four of us realized all our families have exactly one night of the year free — New Year’s Eve. So now we have a tradition of all meeting up in a fun city each New Year’s Eve. It’s allowed the 11 cousins, who are split between the coasts, to catch up each year — especially after the old folks go to bed.

Erica: My sister, Maia, is seven years younger — turning 21 in 20 days! — so it's taken us a while to become peers. I'm so glad we are now.

• It's a unique experience navigating life as a first-generation American, balancing two different cultures, and no one quite gets it like her.
• On any given day, chances are she's at the top of my recent calls list. Sometimes I'll just FaceTime her while I'm making dinner and prop the phone against the coffeemaker — guaranteed great night!

Jim: My parents stuck the landing. My older brother Johnny, younger sister Julie and I genuinely enjoy each other, rely on each other, suffer no weird sibling tension and chat or see each other frequently.

• I count our awesome relationships as a big reason for my sanity and joy. What a gift.

📬 Your turn! We want to hear about your bonds with your brothers and sisters. Send us a couple of sentences, your name and your hometown and we'll include some responses in future edition.

Spring is around the corner, but we're savoring the last bits of winter with this stunning photo, sent by reader Greg Y.

• "We were on our way home and stopped for lunch at Odell Lake Lodge in the Cascades. I snapped this picture of Odell Creek from the parking area. It had been snowing for days prior and everything was beautiful — a perfect winter day!"