I noticed that when meeting new people, one thing they often ask when they find out you have siblings, parents still alive, DCs etc is 'are you close'?
I say yes pretty much automatically, but it occurred to me that actually, I have no idea what the yardsticks are!
So, I have one sister who lives about an hour away. I am the eldest by 2 years, she has 3 DCs and I have 2. We have both been married over 25 years. Dad died but Mum has remarried to a chap who seems to accept us.
As that whole family, we get together at least once a month for a lunch, day out etc. Mum, sis and I keep in touch about every other day using technology, occasional phone call - the 3 of us squeeze in occasional shopping trips, spa days, girlie treats. The older cousins are in regular contact by FB etc. I meet one of my nieces for theatre trips, my DD stays with her at Uni sometimes. We always remember and celebrate birthdays together, as well as Christmas and other holidays. If difficulties or crises arise, we all do what we can to help and have supported each other through bereavement, broken relationships, house moves, sickness, money worries etc. I love them all very, very much and tell them often. This is reciprocated. We moan a bit about each other (!) but are not keen on confrontation so try not to upset one another.
That's my definition of 'close'! Is it yours? If not, what is yours - and are you - close?!