“Fish and visitors smell after three days.” – Benjamin Franklin

You’ve survived and (dare I say, enjoyed) the 2012 Holidays with your distant relatives. It’s nice getting the family together for a few days. The hustle and bustle of the holidays can be overwhelming and the sudden silence after guests leave can be gloomy.  Technology can make the transition back to everyday life a lot easier.

If your brother and his family live in Seattle, Washington and you live in Jacksonville, Florida, chances are you won’t be able to afford to see him or your cute nieces and nephews more than a few times a year. You don’t have to rack up thousands of frequent flier miles to be a good aunt or uncle; use these five ways to keep in touch:

1. Skype
   If everyone has a webcam and fast enough wifi, Skype provides an inexpensive way to sing “Happy Birthday” to any friend or family member anywhere on the globe. It works on Android and iOS, allowing it to work on most smartphones and computers. The video quality isn’t always the best but the price is free if both people have Skype. If you want to do a group video call, there is a premium option explained here.
2. FaceTime
   iMac, iPhone, iPod, iPad. These will all come pre-installed with FaceTime. This application uses the built-in webcam  to connect people across the city and around the world. The video quality tends to be a little better than Skype but it only works if everyone owns an Apple product.
3. Google Chat
   With a free Google or Gmail account, you can instant message or video chat with friends around the globe. The account is free and with Google+ you can create a Hangout that allows group video chat.
4. Facebook
   Privacy concerns may be an issue for some people but if enough of your friends and family are on Facebook, it can be worthwhile for you to be as well. Facebook events and private group messages can make Grandma’s Surprise Birthday Party the event of the year. Remember to make the event Private and Invite Only otherwise it won’t be a surprise from Grandma.
5. Cellphone or Landline
   If you can’t touch or see someone, sometime’s voice is the next best thing. Check your cellphone plan to see when it’s the cheapest to call. Free nights and weekends, mobile-to-mobile, and unlimited texting are possible perks of a contract cellphone.

Did I miss your favorite way to contact your family long distance? Tell me in the comments!