What is your most cherished family tradition?

Each summer, the women in my extended family get together for a girls’ weekend, either traveling to other cities or staying at a cousin’s lake house. Leaving the men at home, we women — spanning seven decades and three generations — become friends rather than mothers and daughters, cousins and sisters. A few years ago, my great-aunt Marilyn died, and I feel blessed that I had these times to experience her humor and generosity.

This tip comes from Real Simple reader Peggy Stassen Columbus, Ohio